Often, when people are concerned that they are going to be laid off, downsized or otherwise in jeopardy of losing their job, they want to start looking for a new one before they find themselves unemployed. The concern is that their boss will find out about their job search and help them speed up their departure from the company.
And, with so many crucial parts of a job search happening online, the concern is certainly valid. With everyone being so well connected with social networking, it can be a challenge to keep your job search on the down-low. So, how can you look for a new job confidentially? Here are some tips that might help:
- Don't apply for jobs on company time – I know that this one sounds like a no-brainer, but you would be surprised at how many people actually look for jobs and even go so far as to send out resumes from their corporate email account. When you are at work, you are on company time. Using your employers resources to conduct your job search just makes you look bad to a prospective employer. Not only that, but depending on your companies internet monitoring policy, your boss will probably find out fairly quick.
- Make your social networking profiles private - If you are using social media sites like Linkedin, be sure to check out your privacy settings. If you are planning to join groups that assist job seekers in finding new job leads, make sure that you opt to not have those groups show on your profile. When it comes to sites like Facebook, it is best to keep your work contacts and your personal accounts separate. This can make it easier to protect your privacy. But remember that no privacy settings are 100%, so be careful about what you post. It may be a better idea to send messages directly to the person rather than opting for a wall post.
- If you have to schedule an interview during work hours, be discrete – No one will believe that you have to leave work early for a dentist appointment when you come to work dressed up much nicer than usual. No matter what you may think, your boss isn't that much of an idiot. It is a better idea to put the things you need for the interview in your car and change somewhere after you leave work.
- Don't provide contact numbers on your resume – When you list your current employer on your resume, don't include contact information. If it becomes important during an interview, by all means, give them the information and let them know that you are still employed at that company and ask them to keep the details of your job search confidential. Most employers who are seriously interested in hiring you will respect your wishes. By omitting this information, you will prevent anyone from accidentally calling your current employer for a reference.
Finding a new job while you are still employed can be tricky, but securing your next position before you leave your current one is the best way to make the transition as smooth as possible. With a little bit of work and planning, you can make sure that your privacy is protected while you test the waters.
Are there any other ideas or tactics you have used to keep your job search private? Let me know in the comments.
Are you looking for a job in the Manhattan area? Be sure to visit Manhattanjobs.com
By Melissa Kennedy- Melissa is a 9 year blog veteran and a freelance writer, along with helping others find the job of their dreams, she enjoys computer geekery, raising a teenager, supporting her local library, writing about herself in the third person and working on her next novel.
Become a member to take advantage of more features, like commenting and voting.
Register or sign in today!