4 tips for finding a job while employed

As the job market remains competitive, many are thinking about finding better opportunities or changing careers while maintaining their current position. The thought of looking for a job while employed can be both tempting and risky – while it offers better financial stability and a fresh start, it also brings with it the challenge of getting burned out.

Data from Indeed’s 2024 Workforce Insights Report shows that 60% of current employees are ready to apply for a new job. So it’s not new territory if you’re in the same boat. However, you need to be strategic in your decisions to explore new opportunities without jeopardizing your current job.

Here are four things to keep in mind to make the transition smooth and professional:

Plan your next steps

It takes a good strategy to be successful in any endeavor. So plan ahead if you’re thinking about looking for a job while you’re still employed. Know that you can’t be 100% in your job search and 100% in your current role because that will wear you down.

In this search, identify your goals, whether it be a higher salary, a specific role, a better work-life balance, or a specific work culture. Setting specific days or times to work on job search activities can help you manage your schedule. Take advantage of breaks, commutes, or waiting times to do your research and work on the hunt.

You can also set a timeline for the next three or six months on how you will continue to work on this project to avoid short-term changes or loss of momentum. Stay motivated by focusing on your long-term goals and taking a balanced approach.

Use your network

If you’ve been in the industry for a while, you may have already built a professional network that can help you find contacts and job leads. Reach out to former colleagues, managers or clients to make new contacts and have fruitful conversations about industry news, which can of course lead to job discussions.

It can also be helpful to subtly show interest in new opportunities without explicitly mentioning that you are looking for a job. You can express your curiosity about trends in the industry and inquire if there are any suitable job openings.

If you use LinkedIn when applying for a job, adjust your settings so your manager or teammates don’t receive updates about your activities, such as: B. by contacting recruiters.

Be wary of mutual contacts who may inadvertently pass information about your search to your current employer, and always thank those in your network who help you with your job search.

Prepare your documents

As with any job search, be sure to update your documents, such as your resume, and prepare a draft of cover letters that are specific to the position you are applying for.

Be sure to mention your greatest achievements in your previous and current roles and highlight the skills and tools that are relevant to the position you are applying for. Adding industry jargon could also demonstrate your expertise and experience.

You can check out these free resources and templates from Workhap to update your resume and cover letter and prepare for interviews. If you need more help with your job search, you can enroll in the Get Hired Academy, where you’ll learn everything you need to achieve your ideal career in just 8 weeks.

Also, update your LinkedIn profile with a well-written headline, about yourself section, and work experiences to catch the attention of recruiters who will look at your profile throughout your application process.

Be discreet and do not jeopardize your current job

If you’re considering moving from one employer to another, make sure you don’t jeopardize your current position. Don’t hog your employer’s resources or time and keep job search-related activities on your own laptop, phone and email. Using company resources negatively impacts your professionalism and leaves a digital trail that could raise red flags with your employer.

Additionally, if possible, schedule your interviews outside of work hours, such as early morning and late afternoon, or set aside personal days to attend interviews without arousing suspicion.

Avoid mentioning your job search to colleagues or discussing it in shared office spaces. Even well-meaning colleagues can accidentally leak information.

Finding a job while maintaining your current position requires a careful balance of discretion, planning, and professionalism. Remember that the goal is not just to find a new job, but to do so in a way that protects your reputation and relationships. Tread carefully to ensure you leave the door open for future contacts and opportunities.

While it may not be easy, you can definitely make this transition successfully and advance your career with confidence and integrity without compromising your professional image. I wish you good luck on this career path!