How To: Find a Job While Being Employed
While job searching when you are currently employed can provide a sense of security, it does come with risks. Follow these 5 tips for ways to keep your current job while you apply elsewhere!
Consider your options
It is always a good idea to research what jobs are available in the current market and your personal career field. Knowing what skills companies are looking for can show you what skills you should improve upon, and which ones match specific roles. Before you make a decision too big, consider making a pro and cons list to staying in your current role versus moving to a new one. The workforce has seen vast changes due to COVID, one of the main being that employees are starting to reconsider what is important to them in the workforce. Understanding why you want to move jobs and if it’s the right time or not, can help you make a better decision.
2. Look internally
While in some situations it may be smart to simply leave your current company, most job seekers forget to look for opportunities directly around them. There are certain factors for this like, limited internal mobility or an unhealthy work environment, but dependent on the situation, you could potentially lose out on opportunities for career growth. Ask yourself if mobility exists at your current company and if you do in fact have the qualifications to make a move. Most companies prefer internal hires, for they can provide a proven track record and a greater sense of how the company works. Consider reaching out to your manager or HR department and notify them you are interested in potential growth opportunities.
3. Be discreet and smart
Once you figure out where you want to work, it’s time to start approaching the hiring team for that company discreetly. Reaching out one-on-one and not advertising publicly you are looking for a new job can avoid any awkward situations with your manager. If you are applying, consider sending your resume to your personal connections instead of posting it on job sites. While technology is helpful in applying, be smart with using work-issued devices. Using your personal computer and work phone to set up interviews and send resumes will ensure that inadvertent messages are sent to your manager or company.
4. Don’t neglect your current job
Don’t forget that finding a new job is not instantaneous, there are many steps from applying to interviewing that can take time. While it is important to dedicate time to your job search, your current job is and should always be your main priority. Continue to attend meetings and be timely in your responsibilities to show your manager or co-workers that you are still committed to the role.
5. Build your network
Not only is networking the best way to find a new role, it is also the most discreet. Consider joining alumni groups from your university or by reaching out to former coworkers and friends in related industries. Having personal connections that can voice for your skills, work ethic, and potential fit with the company can be a game changer when on the job market. Having personal and professional connections in your corner can help you find roles or industries that you didn’t even know you may have an interest in. Networking allows you to leverage connections into a new job while building upon meaningful interactions.
If you know it is time for a new position, consider these tips for searching. If you remain on the fence, remember that sometimes the grass is greener on the other side, and be patient with yourself. Understand what you dislike about your previous position and make sure that new jobs don’t have the same or similar downsides. Staying true to what your want to get out of a role is rule number one in any job search.