Finding a Job When You Don't Have Time to Search

Performing a job search while still employed is a tricky task to accomplish. You have to try to network without your boss finding out, hope HR doesn't tell a manager if and when an employment verification request comes in, and maintain a healthy working relationship with your co-workers. There's a lot to prioritize, which makes being cognizant of your time and how you spend it essential to the success of your search.

If you're already putting in long hours, coupled with family obligations, seeing friends, eating and sleeping, where do you come up with the time and effort needed to find a better job? Perusing job descriptions, networking and creating the perfect resume all take valuable time away from your schedule too, and there's only so many hours in a week you can devote to your search.

Make a Plan

Dr. Katharine Hansen of Quint Careers says that to start down the road to finding a better job, you need to have a plan. Make a mission statement, map out a time frame for your tasks, and then start taking practical steps toward another position.

Prioritize

When you realize the amount of effort you put into a job isn't worth the payout anymore, that's a sign to pull back and simply focus on work when you're on the actual clock. Do not check your work emails at home, and try not to volunteer for new projects. You earn a salary based on a certain amount of time worked per week, so you should honor that agreement to the letter by maintaining high standards from 9 to 5. After that, use your time away from the office to find a new position.

If you are unemployed, make your job search as productive as possible. Do not search for positions that may not fit your qualifications, skills and experience. Zero in on the jobs that make sense. Reconnect with your network, especially since many positions are filled because someone is comfortable recommending another person for a job. Spend some time polishing your online presence and spruce up your LinkedIn profile in between clicking on job descriptions. Eventually, your efforts will pay off.

Searching Online

Try not to make your search too obvious on social media if you still have a job. One of your office buddies might notice, and word-of-mouth can spread pretty quick. Make sure you engage in your job search away from any office computers. Make phone calls and inquiries on your lunch break. There is one caveat to this strategy when you still have a job. If your current employer takes exception to your lack of effort, you might be without a job before securing your next position.

Your job search becomes a priority when you feel too unhappy in your position or are unemployed. Scale back your efforts at the office and learn to prioritize your time to see what happens.

Photo courtesy of kate hiscock at Flickr.com