Is It Bad to Be Actively Searching for a New Job While Employed Full-Time? What Should Employers Expect?

Employers often worry about employees engaging in job searches during working hours, and for good reason: it can lead to distractions, reduce productivity, and potentially drive open vacancies. However, it is perfectly acceptable to seek new employment while still holding a full-time job. This article explores the common concerns, ethical considerations, and advice on how to approach job hunting while employed without jeopardizing your current role.

The Employer's Perspective

From an employer's standpoint, their primary expectation is that employees focus on their current job while on the clock. Therefore, it is best to keep job search activities private. Here are some steps to minimize the risk of detection and maintain productivity:

Limit searches to personal time— during lunch breaks, after work hours, or during weekends. Use a personal device for job search activities to avoid alerts or notifications that might be visible to coworkers. Be mindful of the timing of job interviews. If necessary, request before or after hours slots, or opt for lunch interviews. If conflicts arise, communicate your need for flexible work hours. When scheduling interviews, be vague about your reasons for needing time off, such as saying you have an appointment or personal business to attend to. Respect the boundaries of your current role and avoid treating your employer like a parent, dog, or slave. Remember that you are an adult with a right to personal time.

Ethical Considerations

While job searching during work hours is often discouraged, pursuing personal advancement during work hours is considered unethical. This is because such activities compete with the responsibilities and duties expected of an employee on the job. However, looking for a new job off-duty is a common practice. This dual role is normal, given that a job search can take weeks or even months.

Employer Expectations

Employers should have reasonable expectations when it comes to their employees' job search activities. Employees are generally not expected to prioritize a new job search over their current responsibilities. Therefore, it's important to manage your time effectively and communicate openly with your employer about your situation, especially if you need to take time off for job interviews or other activity.

Strategies for Active Job Hunting

When actively searching for a new job, consider the following strategies to avoid detection and maintain a professional image:

Utilize free time— evenings, weekends, holidays, and approved leave with pay to apply for jobs and network. Focus on building your resume, crafting cover letters, and researching potential employers during non-working hours. Attend networking events, job fairs, and online workshops to strengthen your job search. Keep your job search activities separate from your work life. This means using a private device and avoiding any activities that might be perceived as underutilizing your work hours. Seek out opportunities to enhance your skills and credentials, even if they are outside your current job requirements. This can make you a more attractive candidate for future roles.

Conclusion

While it is crucial to maintain focus on your current job, searching for a new one during free time is a normal part of adult life. Employers should expect that their employees might need some time to pursue career growth. By managing your job hunt effectively, you can minimize disruptions to your current work and maintain open lines of communication with your employer.

References

Boudreau, D. G. (2022). The Ethics of Job Hunting While Employed. Geneva: The Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies.