If you're unhappy at your current job, it can be tough to find the time to search for a new one. We've come up with some useful tips to help you track down, apply and win that dream job.
Don't tell anyone
Unless you want to create a distinctly chilly atmosphere, don't let your boss know you're looking for a new job. Don't even tell your colleagues. All it takes for for one accidental slip of the tongue to land you in trouble.
If your company learns that it needs to replace you, you could wind up with your P45 before you're ready to go.
Don't search at work
Working on your CV or applying to online ads while on company time will not only get you in trouble with your current employer, it could damage your credibility with future employers: if an employer sees that you have been emailing them during the business day, they might not want to hire you. Try to limit your searching to the evenings and weekends. It might cut into your free time but at least you'll have a clear conscience.
Use your personal email address
This may sound like a rookie mistake but it happens all the time. Do
not use your work email to apply for jobs. Even if your email is not
being monitored, it won't look good when your IT manager comes to
clearing your inbox and finds you've been applying for jobs through the
company server. It could also be contrary to the terms of your
employment.
Time your interviews carefully
If you plan on scheduling
an interview on your lunch break or before work,
make sure that you'll make it into work on time. Coming in to work late
wearing your best suit is a dead giveaway. Another idea is to take a
day off and try to cram all your
interviews in that day.
Remain anonymous
This could be overkill but its worthwhile considering using a fake name when you make initial calls to learn about job
opportunities. Once you've established there is a job opening, you can use your real
name to submit your application in confidence.
Don't moan about your employer
Try to avoid bad-mouthing your current company. Even though your
complaints may be valid, you will come across as a problem employee.
Plus, word may get around that you are dissatisfied,
raising suspicions that you are looking for a new job.
Business as usual
Even if you are unhappy, try to continue to
do your job well. Not only will that make your final few weeks more
bearable, it will also ensure you get a decent reference when you leave.