How to Search for Positions while Employed

Whether you’ve worked at your current job for a long or short period, you may realize your current position is something you no longer want to do. Maybe you’re no longer motivated to do your best and exceed expectations or you’re stressed about work and it’s affecting your health. Here’s how you can search for new positions while being employed.

1. Prepare and Plan Ahead

Planning is the key to a smooth and easy transition from one position to the next. You need to update your resume and cover letter, as well as your references. When you’re ready to submit applications for consideration, you can help speed up the process of being hired. We live in the digital world, so make sure everything you have on your resume is present on your LinkedIn profile. Companies often check social media profiles in addition to reviewing your resume. You need to make sure all the information you provide in your resume matches the information on your professional profiles.

2. Improve your LinkedIn Profile

Your LinkedIn profile can take improve your chances of being hired. This professional social platform enables you to showcase your experience, skills, and job history. You can also be endorsed for the skills you know and perform well. A detailed LinkedIn profile can put you ahead of other candidates who are applying for the same position. You can use the LinkedIn platform to your advantage by searching for companies that are hiring for different positions in their company with the same skills you possess.

3. Perform Job Searches on Your Time

Performing job searches on company time isn’t the best idea. Companies check the browser history of their computers often, and it shows you’ve been actively looking for another job, it won’t be hard for your boss to put two and two together. When a boss finds out a current employee is seeking employment with another company, it can create an awkward or hostile work environment and you can forget about a letter of recommendation. If you don’t have internet access at home, go to the library. If you can, use your cell phone. You don’t want to be out of a job before you can find a replacement for your current job.

4. Network to Increase Your Opportunities

Employers may seem superior in many instances, but they’re ordinary people, and you never know where you may meet your next employer. While you’re searching for your place in a new career or position, be open to different opportunities. Research the current trends in your industry of expertise and don’t be afraid to show off your relative skills and knowledge.

5. Organize Interviews Strategically

Make sure you know your schedule at least one week in advance. You should schedule your interviews before or after your shifts at your current place of employment, even if it’s a phone interview. You want to make sure you have more than enough time to get to and from the interview site. Scheduling an interview within 5 or 10 minutes of your next shift at your current job is not the brightest idea. Schedule interviews on your days off or give yourself enough time to get from point a to point b with at least 30 minutes to spare.

6. Look the Part

Although you’re currently employed, you’re trying to get your foot through the door with another opportunity, so make sure you dress the part. You should maintain a neat and clean appearance. You have to show employers you want the job and ready to work. On the other side of dressing the part, don’t go out of your way to look to fancy at your current job. People are paying attention even when you think they aren’t and a lot of questions will arise. Don’t draw unnecessary attention to yourself.

7. Continue to do Your Part

Don’t slack on doing your job because you’re ready to find a new one. Make sure you do your duties as you should. It’s tempting to slack at work because you’re unhappy and stressed, but don’t let the work blues get the best of you. Stay motivated and work through the hard times. You’re actively looking for another job, so let that be your light at the end of the tunnel.

8. Choose Your References Wisely

You may not want to choose your current job as a reference for the new job. Choose companies you know will give you a positive, fair recommendation. Talk to previous co-workers and people who know your skills and expertise, people who have seen you in action.

If you’re in the middle of a job search, we have a variety of jobs available. Check out our current jobs and apply for the ones that spark your interest…when you’re not on company time of course!