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Looking for a new job is a full-time job in itself, but when do you have the time to look when you are spending over 40 hours a week at work, running errands and fulfilling family and social commitments in addition to stealing some time to sleep? The usual answer is, you do it at work.
The last thing you want is for your current employer to know that you are looking elsewhere - If they find out, you could jeopardise both your current position and future references. So how can you conduct your job search in secret?
Be discreet
Rule one is not to use your company email address on any job applications as most organisations have policies permitting them to monitor employee email activity. Create a personal email account specifically for your job search.
Avoid using the office fax machine, computer and telephones. It may be convenient but it is also risky – it's too easy to accidentally leave a copy of your CV on the photocopier.
Always remember that sites like Monster are accessed by employers so use the privacy settings when you upload your CV to make sure your boss won't stumble across your details. You should also use our ‘company blocker' tool which allows you to prevent specific companies from seeing your details.
Lunchtimes, unsurprisingly, are the most common times for job seekers to be scanning the job ads. It is also the best time to return unanswered phone calls on your mobile to prospective employers. Try to find a quiet place like a local internet café or library to access your emails and search the job boards. The less distraction you have, the more you can concentrate on making your correspondence as good as possible.
Don't change your ways
If you typically wear jeans to work but suddenly start dressing in a suit as you have a interview , questions will soon be asked. Don't advertise the fact that you are looking for another job. If possible, try and find a friend who works nearby that could give your somewhere to change from interview mode back to your regular attire.
Regular excuses for coming in late or going home early are another tell-tale sign so try to arrange interviews before or after normal business hours. If it's unavoidable then schedule them during lunchtimes or arrange a day's holiday and schedule multiple interviews in one batch.
You have resolved to find yourself a new job, but don't shoot yourself in the foot by making colleagues and your boss suspicious if you start slacking. If you don't land another job straight away then you have to stay where you are for a while longer and you could be putting your existing position under threat.