It’s time to move on from your current job. Maybe the work is no longer fulfilling, you’ve stopped learning and growing, or your personality doesn’t mesh with the company culture — no matter what the reason, you’re working on your exit strategy.
Finding an amazing new job is never easy, but you have an extra roadblock to deal with because you’re trying to conduct your search without alerting your boss. Here are some tips to keep your impending departure quiet at work.
Keep Your Resume off Job Boards
Many job seekers post their resume on popular job sites, but that’s not exactly a discrete move. If your boss — or one of their contacts — checks these boards when working to fill an open position, there’s a good chance they’ll come across it.
Don’t Search at Work
If you have some free time at work, you might think it’s a great opportunity to conduct a few job-search activities. The problem is, your boss or a colleague could come up behind you and see your computer screen. Unbeknownst to you, your manager might also check your browsing history. Since anything you do at work is fair game for your boss to find out about, play it safe and keep your search entirely out of the office.
Interview During Off-Hours
Coordinating job interviews while employed can be a bit tricky. If at all possible, restrict interviews to before work, lunchtime or after work, as taking off for mysterious appointments will raise eyebrows.
If you wear a suit to the interview, it’s also wise to find somewhere outside the office to quickly change clothes. Otherwise, you’re essentially telling your boss what you’re up to, as wearing business professional attire in a casual or business casual workplace is a major red flag.
Ask Hiring Managers for Confidentiality
Many people search for a new job while gainfully employed, so any reasonable hiring manager will understand your predicament. Since they read your resume, they probably already know you’re employed, but offer a friendly reminder and explain you’re trying to keep your search confidential the first time the two of you speak. If the person seems unwilling to honor this request, move on because they likely wouldn’t be a very understanding boss.
Use References From Past Jobs
It’s hard to keep your job search from your manager if they — or any of your current colleagues — are on your reference list. No matter how much you like them, it’s best to focus on references from past jobs, as you won’t face any consequences when they find out you’re searching for new opportunities.
Ready to find a fulfilling new job? Management Registry Inc. is here to guide your search. Take the next step toward your future and get in touch today!