Job Search at Work? 5 Must-Read Tips

Put less pressure on yourself by job searching while employed.

This is a guest post by Dave Thomas. If you’d also like to guest post here on JobMob, follow these guest post guidelines.

There are always individuals with jobs who for one reason or another choose to search for a different position.

When those cases arise, it behooves the individual to be as discreet as possible so that their present employer is not privy to their search, something that in the end could cost the employee their present job.

The last thing you want is to really need to search for a job because you just lost your current job due to wasting the employer’s time.

So when you feel the need to get another position while presently employed, keep these factors in mind:

1) Your stock is higher presently employed

Being employed increases your value as you seek another job.

Keep in mind that some employers will view your present job experience as worthwhile to them, given you should be up to speed on the current trends and needs if you are looking to switch professions within the same industry.

2) Don’t leave job search footprints for others to find

When you are gainfully employed and looking for other work, your time available is less, given you have responsibilities to your present employer. That simply means that you should not be making calls, sending emails or faxes, running off copies of your resume on the office printer etc. while at work. Use your lunch time or time outside of work to do the necessary activities to finding another position.

3) Utilize former employers as references

Given that it would be uncomfortable to use your present employer as a reference or background check, turn to past employers, associates, etc. to give you a positive recommendation. Also do not use current co-workers as references no matter how much you trust them or value their friendship.

4) Keep your routine the same

Do not all of a sudden show up in a suit and tie at work if you’ve worn jeans and a t-shirt every day of your employment. Do not appear to have a new-found fascination with the copier or fax machine if you have rarely used them before. Lastly, don’t go gossiping around the office, no matter who you think you might be able to trust, regarding your job search. Remember, loose lips sink ships.

5) Don’t send out resumes when you do not know the source

It is not uncommon for job ads, especially those online, to come with a P.O. Box or generic email with which to reply. For all you know, it could be your present employer posting an advertisement for help. Make sure you know the source of the help wanted advertisement so that you’re not caught inappropriately sending a resume to your current employer. If you do, chances are you will hear about it.

Bonus tip

6) Review why you’re looking for a new job in the first place

While it does certainly occur in offices everywhere, stop and ask yourself why you are looking for a different job in the first place. It could be for more money, the opportunity for better growth, an issue with a co-worker or boss, etc. Make sure leaving your present job is in your best interests, especially if you have built up seniority, have possibilities for advancement in time, etc.

While searching for a job can be a full-time job in and of itself, knowing how to go about it when gainfully employed will make the experience a little easier to stomach.

Question of the article

Do you know someone who is searching for a job while employed? How is it harder or easier for them? Tell us in the comments.

About the Author

Dave Thomas, who covers workers compensation among other subjects, writes extensively for Business.com, an online resource destination for businesses of all sizes to research, find, and compare the products and services they need to run their businesses.

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