Finding a New Job When You’re Still Working

You know it’s time to move on from your job, but you still have a full-time commitment to uphold. Job hunting can be extremely time consuming, and you might find yourself stretched thin as you decide whether to prioritize moving on or staying in place. While you will need to work around your current schedule, it is possible to find a job while employed. There are five tips you can keep in mind as you search for a new position:

• Consider Exploring Higher Education
• Don’t Reveal Your Plans to Leave Until You’re Hired
• Job Hunt on Your Own Time, Not the Company’s
• Improve Your Current Situation
• Watch What You Share Online

Consider Exploring Higher Education

If you feel like you’re trapped in a dead-end job, looking for another one could bring up similar feelings. Many people wind up stagnating because they don’t feel they have the skills or experience to find something better. If you think that your current position may be hindering your potential growth, look for other ways to boost your odds.

You may decide to go back to school and earn a master’s degree. This will qualify you for higher paying positions or help you switch fields entirely. If you worry you can’t afford college on your current income, you aren’t alone. Paying for everything out-of-pocket is unrealistic for most people, and there are solutions available.

One option is borrowing student loans from a private lender. Having flexible funding allows graduate students from all backgrounds and income levels to customize their payments. Being able to take advantage of repayment options, like refinancing and consolidation, can bring you peace of mind as you navigate your student debt after graduation.

Don’t Reveal Your Plans to Leave Until You’re Hired

A manager can easily find out through the grapevine that you’re planning to leave your position. When that happens, you could wind up laid off or fired before you’ve had a chance to secure employment elsewhere. Even if you’re close to your coworkers, avoid sharing anything about your job search until you’ve signed your new contract.

Job Hunt on Your Own Time, Not the Company’s

Using company time to send applications, conduct interviews or boost your job search game can get you fired or even blow the whistle. Most company computers have monitoring software that allow supervisors to see what employees are looking up on their PCs. You could easily get caught applying to open positions or emailing a recruiter, so wait until you’re on your own WIFI and laptop to job hunt. Aside from the potential consequences, it’s also highly unprofessional to use your current job’s time to work on your career. You have responsibilities to meet, and you should allocate the time you’re paid to work to fulfill them.

Improve Your Current Situation

Some people search for over a year before they get a new position. If you have to stay where you are for a while, what can you do to make work more pleasurable? An attitude adjustment may be in order. When there are external circumstances you can’t control, your mindset will be your most powerful resource. It’s not ideal to work somewhere you can’t stand, but if you focus on its benefits, practice gratitude and keep envisioning a brighter future, you can make it through.

Watch What You Share Online

Your LinkedIn activity may be visible to your coworkers and managers, so adjust your settings and edit your privacy settings. You don’t want your current employer to see that you’re actively seeking new work. You should also be cautious on social media, especially if you’re connected to colleagues or they could easily find your accounts by searching your name.