Navigating the job market while being currently employed can be a delicate balancing act. Whether you’re seeking new opportunities for career advancement or exploring different industries, job searching while employed requires careful strategy and consideration.
For job seekers in La Crosse County, WI, Coulee Region Jobs is here to support your career journey. Our goal is to connect you with top employers in the Coulee Region and provide access to a variety of job opportunities. With our expert career resources and local insights, you can enhance your job search strategy and prepare effectively for interviews. To help you successfully navigate this process, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide on the dos and don’ts of job searching while employed.
The Dos of Job Searching While Employed
1. Do Keep Your Job Search Confidential
Confidentiality is crucial when job searching while employed. It’s essential to maintain discretion to avoid any potential conflicts with your current employer. Here are some tips to ensure your job search remains private:
- Use Personal Contact Information: Always use your personal email address and phone number for job applications and correspondence. Avoid using your work email or phone.
- Schedule Interviews Outside Work Hours: Arrange interviews during your lunch break, before or after work hours, or on weekends. This minimizes the risk of being seen leaving work for interviews.
- Update Your Resume Securely: Keep your resume and job search documents on a personal device or in secure cloud storage, rather than on your work computer.
2. Do Network Wisely
Networking is a powerful tool for job searching. When networking while employed, ensure you:
- Leverage Professional Associations: Connect with industry-specific groups and attend relevant events to expand your network.
- Engage on Professional Platforms: Utilize platforms like LinkedIn or Indeed to connect with industry professionals. Make sure your profile reflects your skills and accomplishments without revealing your job search status.
- Ask for Discreet Referrals: If reaching out to former colleagues or mentors, ask them to keep your job search confidential.
3. Do Focus on Your Current Job Performance
Maintaining high performance at your current job is vital. Here’s how to stay on top of your game:
- Meet or Exceed Expectations: Continue to meet deadlines, complete projects efficiently, and demonstrate your value to your current employer.
- Avoid Job Search Discussions: Refrain from discussing your job search with colleagues or supervisors to maintain professionalism.
4. Do Prepare for Interviews Effectively
Preparing for interviews while employed requires careful planning:
- Research Thoroughly: Research potential employers and prepare responses to common interview questions to make a strong impression.
- Practice Your Answers: Conduct mock interviews to refine your responses and improve your confidence.
5. Do Be Honest with Potential Employers
Honesty is crucial during the job search process:
- Disclose Your Availability: Be transparent about your current employment status and your availability for interviews and potential start dates.
- Explain Your Reasons: If asked, explain your reasons for seeking new opportunities in a positive and professional manner.
The Don’ts of Job Searching While Employed
1. Don’t Use Company Resources for Job Searching
Avoid using your current employer’s resources for your job search:
- Don’t Use Company Devices: Refrain from using your work computer, printer, or other office equipment for job search activities.
- Don’t Access Job Sites During Work Hours: Avoid browsing job boards or applying for jobs during work hours. Instead, dedicate personal time for these activities.
2. Don’t Neglect Your Current Responsibilities
Your current job responsibilities should not suffer due to your job search:
- Don’t Allow Job Search to Affect Performance: Ensure your job search doesn’t interfere with your productivity and work quality.
- Don’t Disregard Work Commitments: Attend meetings, complete tasks, and fulfill your responsibilities as expected.
3. Don’t Disclose Your Job Search to Co-Workers
Sharing your job search with co-workers can create tension and potentially impact your current job:
- Don’t Discuss Job Search with Colleagues: Keep your job search private to avoid any potential gossip or discomfort among your team.
- Don’t Post About It on Social Media: Avoid sharing job search details on social media platforms, as this can lead to unintended exposure.
4. Don’t Burn Bridges
Maintaining a positive relationship with your current employer is essential:
- Don’t Badmouth Your Current Employer: Speak positively about your current role and employer during interviews, even if your reasons for leaving are negative.
- Don’t Resign Abruptly: Provide adequate notice and offer to help with the transition to ensure a smooth exit.
5. Don’t Ignore Legal and Contractual Obligations
Ensure you are aware of and comply with any legal or contractual obligations:
- Don’t Violate Non-Compete Agreements: If you have a non-compete clause in your contract, make sure your job search complies with its terms.
- Don’t Breach Confidentiality Agreements: Respect any confidentiality agreements you have with your current employer.
Successfully Managing Your Job Search While Employed
Navigating your job search while currently employed can be a complex process, but with the right approach, you can manage both your current responsibilities and your pursuit of new opportunities effectively. By following the dos and don’ts outlined in this guide, you can maintain professionalism and discretion throughout your job search.
At Coulee Region Jobs we help you explore job opportunities and connect with potential employers in the La Crosse area. Let us support you in finding your next career move while managing your current role with professionalism and integrity.
