How to Find Your Next Role While You're Still Employed

The Ground Rules: How to Job Search at Work (Without Actually Doing it at Work)

The single most important rule is simple: create a clear boundary between your current job and your future one. Your job search activities should never happen on your employer's time or their dime. This isn't just about being sneaky; it's about being professional and protecting yourself.

Let's break down the playbook into your essential dos and don'ts.

Your Stealthy Job Search DOs: The Smart Moves

Think of these as your core principles for a smooth and successful search.

DO: Keep Your Search Off Company Time and Tech

This is non-negotiable. Your work computer, work email address, and work phone are the property of your employer. Many companies monitor network activity, and the last thing you want is for your search history to pop up on an IT report.

• Do your searching on your personal laptop at home.
• Take calls from recruiters during your lunch break, but step outside the office to a private space.
• Use your personal email for all applications and correspondence.

DO: Keep Performing at a High Level

Now is not the time to slack off. In fact, you should be more focused than ever on doing your current job well. A sudden drop in performance is a major red flag for any manager. Continuing to be a reliable and productive employee ensures you leave on good terms and keeps any potential suspicion at bay.

DO: Get Your Ducks in a Row Privately

Before you even send out the first application, make sure your professional toolkit is polished and ready. This means updating your professional brand thoughtfully.

Start by crafting a powerful resume that highlights your achievements. If your current one feels a bit stale, using a modern tool can make a world of difference. The AI-powered builder at resumost.com, for instance, can help you create a standout document that's tailored for the roles you're targeting. Once your resume is perfect, you can quietly update your LinkedIn profile—more on that below.

DO: Network Wisely and Discreetly

Letting your professional network know you're open to opportunities is one of the best ways to find a new job. However, you need to be strategic.

Instead of a public blast on social media, reach out to trusted former colleagues or mentors individually. A simple message like, "Hi [Name], hope you're well! I'm starting to quietly explore new opportunities in [Your Field] and thought I'd reach out to see if you've heard of anything interesting," is both professional and discreet.

The Big DON'Ts: Mistakes That Can Derail Your Search

Avoiding these common pitfalls is just as important as the positive actions you take.

DON'T: Announce Your Intentions on LinkedIn

Flipping on the "Open to Work" banner on your LinkedIn profile is like sending up a flare for your current boss to see. Instead, make subtle changes over a few weeks.

• Update your "About" section to focus on your key skills.
• Add recent accomplishments to your job descriptions.
• Start connecting with recruiters and people at companies you admire.

This gradual approach looks like normal professional upkeep, not a desperate search.

DON'T: Tell Your Coworkers

Even if you're best friends with your desk-mate, it's best to keep your job search to yourself. News travels fast in an office, and you can't control the narrative once it's out. What starts as a confidential chat can easily become office gossip, putting you in an incredibly awkward position with your manager.

DON'T: Badmouth Your Current Company

Whether you're in an interview or talking to a recruiter, resist the urge to complain about your current job, boss, or company. It's unprofessional and makes you look like a negative person.

Instead, frame your search positively. Focus on what you're looking for, not what you're running from.

• Instead of: "My boss is a micromanager and I can't stand it."
• Try: "I'm looking for a role with greater autonomy where I can take more ownership of my projects."

DON'T: Print Your Resume at the Office

It might seem harmless, but printing 20 copies of your resume on the office printer is a rookie mistake. It's a tangible piece of evidence you're leaving behind. Just don't do it.

The Final Step: The Graceful Exit

By following these guidelines, you can confidently search for your next adventure while maintaining your professionalism and peace of mind. Juggling a job search with a full-time role is a balancing act, but with a bit of strategy and a whole lot of discretion, you can land your dream job and leave your current one on the best possible terms.

Happy (and stealthy) hunting