Searching for New Opportunities while Employed

There is no guide or rule book when searching for a new job. There is especially no guide to navigate a job search while you are currently in a role. It can feel weird to maneuver your way out of your present job into a new position. It’s necessary to feel happy and that your job is meeting your needs, and if not, it’s okay to look for new opportunities. Here are some of our best tips to make a transition from one job to the next. 

Update your credentials

Before you apply for new positions, update your credentials, such as your resume, portfolio, website, and cover letter(s). There is most likely a decent amount of time between the last time you applied to now. Within that time, there is a lot of content you can update on your materials. 

As you are making updates to your credentials, look up best practices to make them stand out compared to the competition. One great way to fluff up your resume is to use analytics and statistics based on your performance in each role. This will show your benefit to the company and the strength of your skills. 

Refresh your LinkedIn profile

One of the best ways to increase your chances of getting a job while you are in a current position is to revamp your LinkedIn profile. LinkedIn is one of the top platforms hiring managers and recruiters use to find talent. 

You can adjust a setting on your LinkedIn that will tell hiring managers and recruiters of your interest in new opportunities. This way, they can reach out to you even about roles, even if your LinkedIn says you are actively working for another company. 

Network within your industry

Another great way to look for a new job on the low-key is to network with other professionals in your industry and at companies of interest. The best way to get an in at a new position is to know other professionals because you never know if they have a current opening at their company. 

Even if there aren’t any current open positions, strike a conversation with them about new experiences and ask for advice. Regularly talking with other professionals about industry trends can get you far. It will show them you are skilled professionals and you would be of value to their team. 

Get in touch with a recruiter

Navigating the job force while currently working can be tricky because you have to maneuver around your coworkers. Working directly with a recruiter will lead to a seamless job search. They are professionals trained in sourcing jobs. They will do everything in their best practices to avoid conflict with your current position. 

It is also their job to source positions with candidates that are already in a role and lure them to an opportunity. The best part about working with recruiters is that they want to see you in a new job just as badly as you want to have a new job. Let them help you and consider working with a recruiter on your job search.

Schedule interviews outside of work hours

It can be hard to find time outside of work to have an interview with a new company because they are probably only available at the same time you are working. A great way to go about this is to suggest a phone/virtual interview. Now that we are amidst a pandemic, most interviews virtual.

Even if you can only take a virtual call, try to plan it during your lunch break. The interviewers at the company will be available at that time, and you will not be taking it during work hours. There is a chance the interview will go longer than your lunch break, so if that’s the case, try to plan it in the late afternoon right after you log off of work. 

Strategically choose your references

The most crucial part of your job search comes down to your references. References are important. In this case, they could make or break your ability to get a new job. 

Whatever you do, don’t use a reference from the job you are currently at unless you are sure this person is trustworthy. Your instincts will probably go against this because the job you are actively at is most likely the most relevant experience you have.

If you use a reference from your current job, it’s an easy way for them to burn a bridge with you. A coworker, manager, etc., may take offense to your wanting of new opportunities. Be wise about who you choose as a reference and try to choose as many references from different work experiences as possible. 

Overall, it can feel scary and challenging to leave a role you are currently at for another job. There are a lot of what-ifs, but it’s essential to keep your eye on the prize. If a new opportunity brings you happiness and success, you should always chase that.