Why (and How) to Stay Discreet During Your Job Search - Walrath Recruiting, Inc.

Why (and How) to Stay Discreet During Your Job Search - Walrath Recruiting, Inc. If youre going to be looking for a new job while you have one, the importance of discretion cant be overstated. In the worst case scenario, your boss may find out and fire you on the spot. So in todays blog, well discuss not only why you should remain discreet your search, but also how it can be done. If youre currently employed and have just begun searching, this advice is for you! With any confidential job search, the goal is to keep your current employer from finding out. Even if you have a great relationship with your boss, there is no telling how they may react when they find out that you are planning on leaving. There are a few possible outcomes, and the most of them are not good. In the most severe outcome, your boss may terminate you. While it may seem like an overreaction, some managers may feel like your job search will distract you from work. Its also possible that they find out, and become paranoid. What may already be a bad work environment for you could get worse. Since they know youre leaving, they may become overly critical of your work, and question your dedication to the job. Working in a toxic work environment can be almost as bad as actually losing your job. Dreading work every day isnt a pleasant experience. Its also worth noting that candidates who are currently employed tend to get paid more. So if your boss finds out and fires you, it may hurt your salary in your next position. Very rarely, a boss will find out about someone looking to leave, and offer them a raise or increase their compensation. This is an incredibly rare scenario, so you should never bet on it! Most of the aforementioned scenarios are unpleasant, and would only further complicate your attempts to find a new job. Looking for a job is already challenging enough, and you dont need any more roadblocks put in your way. For those reasons, its best for you to remain discreet, and conduct a confidential search. So how exactly do you do that? Carefully Consider Where You Apply Obviously, if you are looking for a new job, that will mean you have to apply to some opportunities you are interested in. However, you should be careful where you apply. Youll want to avoid any clients or companies that associate with your current place of employment. Also, you should avoid uploading your resume to any databases. Certain websites let you upload your resume to be seen by any companies paying for the service. You have no way of knowing if the HR department at your company utilizes the software. If they do, they could see your resume and alert your manager. Only Tell Those You Trust If you have friends at work, you may feel inclined to mention your job search to them. Even if they seem trustworthy, it can be tough to judge. They may mention it to a co-worker in passing, or go straight to your boss. While someone may seem trustworthy, they may be more loyal to their job. So if you do decide to trust someone at work, make sure you know them well. The same goes for your network! Its not paranoid for you to search your connections on LinkedIn, and see if any of them are connected to coworkers. If youre worried, just keep the news between those in your inner circle. Dont Job Search At Work This may seem like a given, but many employees still do this. Job searching on company time is certainly a valid reason for termination, and its also unprofessional. If youre looking for a new job, do so on your break or after work. Its possible that your employer is monitoring your computer, and may find out what youve been up to. Also, you should never give out your work contact information. Use your personal email address and phone number. If someone calls in and tells the receptionist they want to speak to you regarding a job opportunity, its rather incriminating. Wait to Give References Sending your references when you apply can show that you are self-assured in your own candidacy, and trusting of your references. It can be a great way to establish confidence and save the recruiter some time. However, if you are conducting a confidential search, it can give you up. If they wind up calling your boss before you actually have an interview or offer letter, it can sink your ship fast. Always wait until the interview to hand in your references. You may also want to mention the confidential nature of your search when you interview so they know to be discreet. Following those recommendations should help you keep your job search discreet and confidential. It can be somewhat challenging to do while working, but the risk of an employer finding out makes it worth the extra effort. You never know how your manager would respond, and its usually smart just to play it safe. Best of luck in your confidential job search!