Yahoo Finance How to look for a new job while you're working full-time
Looking for a new job while you’re working can be a challenge. It’s not easy to scour job websites on your lunch break without your boss noticing. And after a long day at the office, filling in lengthy applications that highlight your skills can be a chore. If you do get offered an interview, you might have to get inventive to find reasons for time off during the day.
Nearly a third of workers are planning to find a new role at some point this year, according to a survey by TotalJobs. Unsurprisingly, higher salaries are the main driver behind job searches because of the rising cost of living. People are also looking for more job satisfaction, a better work-life balance and better training opportunities.
Finding a new job can be easier if you’re already employed, as it shows you’re in demand. It can also give you leverage when it comes to negotiating terms for the new role. So what can you do to make the process easier – and make sure you don’t get into trouble with your current employer?
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Be discrete
Your intent to find employment elsewhere can backfire if you get into hot water in your current role. It’s important to be discrete. Use your personal laptop to search on job websites rather than your company computer, as you never know who can access your search history. Use only your personal email account for searching as well.
Although it’s exciting to get a callback about a job, it’s important to keep it to yourself in case things don’t work out.
Schedule your time carefully
Use lunchtimes or holidays to schedule interviews. If possible move your working hours around or use flexitime. Some employers may want to carry out screening calls before organising formal interviews. If this is the case, make sure you’re out of your workplace and find somewhere private before agreeing to speak to a prospective employer.
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Choose your referees wisely
It can be helpful to use a previous manager for a reference, rather than your current employer. It’s also important to ask potential employers to be discreet and to let you know before they contact anyone.
Use your own time
Setting aside time for job hunting and applications on your own time is important. Blocking out one hour an evening to write cover letters and CVs – rather than trying to rush through them during the day – will help you avoid mistakes. According to research by the job search engine Adzuna, 87% of UK resumes contain at least one error.
Andrew Hunter, co-founder of Adzuna, says mistakes or typos can setback the most experienced or skilled people. “One CV mistake and your application can go straight into the virtual bin. In today’s tightening jobs market, it’s concerning to find that jobseekers are making CV mistakes that can easily be avoided and that these errors are becoming more prevalent,” he says.
“Having an error-free CV demonstrates to your future employers that you are meticulous and pay attention to details. Take the time to double-check everything before submitting your CV.”
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Don't let things slide at work
Your focus may be elsewhere if you’re looking for a new job, but it’s important to keep things ticking over in your current role. Searching for a new role can take time, so you may have to stay put for a while. Additionally, it’s important to maintain a good relationship with your employer in case you need references in the future.
Be careful online
Finally, be careful when you’re using social media. LinkedIn has an ‘open to work’ feature which lets recruiters know you’re on the market for a new job. Although you can alter your privacy settings, it’s still possible for your current employer to see your update and realise you’re planning to leave. It may be safer to just keep your LinkedIn profile up-to-date.
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