Navigating a New Job Search when You are Already Employed

  As anybody who has attempted a successful job search will tell you, looking for a job can often feel like a full-time job in and of itself. When you already have a job but want to find a completely different one, time is the biggest issue, but other issues come into play as well, like hiding from your employer the fact that you are looking for work elsewhere. Here's some advice that help you get started on your job search without having to compromise the work you already do.

1. Set aside at least 1 to 2 hours every day after work, and make full use of your weekends.

There's no doubt about it—when you have a full-time job, you'll have to make time for finding a new job, and that means setting aside time each and every day. In my past experience, it's best to look through and apply for new job listings every single day for an hour or two after work. Spend your weekends doing job search-related tasks that take some more time, like tweaking your cover letter and resume, and honing your interview skills.

2. Spend more time networking and less time at job boards.

There'll come a point when you may realize that looking for work on Internet job boards is way more trouble than it's worth, especially considering that millions of people are applying for the same position. It's especially fruitless when you realize that most new jobs are acquired through referrals. And if most jobs are found through referrals, then you have to increase the visibility on the radar of those who can grant referrals. That means doing all you can to network. In fact, those two hours a day you spend looking for jobs on the Internet can often better be spent going out to industry conferences, young professionals organizations parties, etc., to scope out your prospects as you network.

3. Find at least two to three potential references from current or past jobs who won't spill the beans about your job search.

When you have a full-time job, it's always difficult to ask a boss or supervisor to act as references, because this necessitates them knowing you are looking for work elsewhere. Depending on where it is that you work currently, this may not go over so well. In lieu of asking your current boss, try asking someone else you work with who has some standing in the company, but won't care if you are trying to leave. You can also ask a past employer who knows what an excellent employee you are.

4. Be patient! Being employed gives you more time to find the job and the offer you truly want.

As they say, Rome was not built in a day. So too, jobs are not found instantly. Especially since you don't have as much time to devote to your job search, try to be content with waiting until something comes up. Since you have the good fortune of being on a steady income, don't take the first thing that comes at you. Wait until you get an offer that will truly be an upgrade of your current job, not just more of the same. Good luck!

Guest Post by Mariana Ashley:
Mariana Ashley is a freelance writer who particularly enjoys writing about online colleges. She loves receiving reader feedback, which can be directed to mariana.ashley031@gmail.com.