Is it time for you to make a job change?
Making the decision is half the battle – and since you already have a job, you’re at an advantage, as long as you handle your search in an intelligent, mature and professional way. Be excited about moving forward in your career, but at the same time, be cautious as you look for a new position while still employed at your current one.
The Pros
Experts agree that most employers prefer candidates who currently have a job, because it gives them more confidence that you’ll be a good hire. If you’re unemployed, it raises questions and puts you in a more defensive position. Added benefits include:
- When you’re working, your professional network is working for you as you constantly interact with industry contacts. They can even keep you informed of potential career opportunities. If you’re not working, you can become out of sight and, therefore, out of mind.
- Quitting your job before landing a new one is a risk you should try to avoid. Most people don’t have an endless stream of income, so you may want to stay where you are until you get a firm offer for new employment.
Possible Cons
There are possible risks associated with job hunting while you’re still employed.
- Someone at your company may find out and tell others. If word reaches your boss, they may take it personally and see it as a lack of loyalty to them or the company. They’ll assume you’re unhappy and may seek ways to get back at you, such as freezing you out of plum projects, meetings and discussions.
- You may not give your full attention to your current responsibilities. This could negatively impact not only your company, but also your personal credibility.
Be Smart About It
Tread carefully into your job search, while not slacking off in your current role. Here are some tips to follow:
- Don’t discuss your job search with your co-workers. Even a trusted confidant could accidentally reveal your plans. You can’t expect other people to guard your secret if you can’t keep it to yourself.
- Don’t use work time or equipment in your search. Consider phones, computers, email, Wi-Fi or other property owned by your employer off limits when it comes to your job search. As revealed by an American Management Association survey, there’s a good chance your company could be monitoring your communication. Make all calls related to your search away from your employer’s premises. Even though you’re using your own phone and data plan, someone may eavesdrop the old-school way – by listening.
- Use former bosses as references. A company that is close to hiring you may ask for references. Since you don’t want your current manager to know about your search, you obviously can’t ask them. Most prospective employers know and understand this. They will be satisfied with a reference from a previous employer instead of your current one.
Finding a new job while maintaining normalcy and peak performance at your current one poses a unique challenge – but it’s well worth it. To assist you through this critical transition, partner with a professional recruiter who specializes in your chosen field. For more information, read our related posts or contact PrideStaff Fresno today.