DON'T overlook opportunities within your own company. Consider employment opportunities that may be right under your nose. Many companies looking to fill vacancies give preference to internal candidates and make an effort to encourage these individual to apply for other positions within the company.
DO be discreet. If you want to keep your job search a secret, don't talk about it. If you tell your co-workers, you can be sure that it will get back to your boss, one way or another.
DON'T search on your employers' time. You are being paid to work for the company, so you shouldn't be surfing the internet for job openings during business hours. Any activity related to your job search, including scheduling interviews, should be completed on your own time.
DO get organised. Set aside blocks of time that you can devote to your employment search; you will be amazed by how much you can get done in just a few hours. In addition to focusing on your job hunt at night and on weekends, you can use your lunch break to review your CV or write covering letters.
DON'T use company resources. No matter how convenient it may be, don't use office stationery, stamps, fax machines or copiers. It's not only an inappropriate and unethical use of company resources but also an easy way for colleagues to find out about your job search from evidence you accidentally leave behind.
DO be careful where you post your CV. To ensure that your current company does not accidentally find your CV when searching for new hires, post on a job site where you can keep your employer and contact information confidential.
DON'T make up excuses when meeting with hiring managers. Most hiring managers will understand that accommodations may have to be made for you to attend an employment interview. Try to schedule meetings for either the beginning or the end of the day, or during your lunch hour.
DO pay attention to how you dress. If your normal work attire consists of jeans and sneakers, showing up to the office in a business suit is likely to arouse suspicion. Avoid the attention by bringing a change of clothes or just ditch your suit jacket.
DON'T forget to network. More jobs are obtained through word of mouth than any other method, so take every opportunity to expand your circle of contacts. In addition to getting involved in professional associations and other networking groups, focus on meeting people while doing everyday activities.
DO register with a recruitment agency. Consider partnering with a recruiter, who can work discreetly on your behalf to distribute your CV and uncover job opportunities. These professionals also can offer guidance on enhancing your CV, improving your interview skills and increasing your chances of landing a new position.
If you want to find a new job, stick to your game plan, be persistent and, perhaps most importantly, be respectful of your current employer. Though you may be tempted to conduct a quick search between projects or work on your CV on the job, think twice before doing so. You wouldn't want to do anything that could jeopardise your current position and future references.
Robert Half is the world's first and largest specialised recruitment consultancy with a global network of more than 360 offices throughout North America, South America, Europe and the Asia-Pacific region. For more information about our Robert Half please visit www.roberthalf.co.uk.
