Our recent Employment Monitor found that 96% of employees are either open to or looking for new job opportunities, but that constant effort you put into finding your next job could have a negative impact on your career.
Trying to balance your full time job with the constant ebbs and flows of the job search brings with it many pitfalls. So before you start spinning multiple plates, you should consider how it will impact on your career short and long term.
It can be an unnecessary distraction
No matter how amazing a multitasker you are or how great your time management skills, the job search can drain your focus. Even on a subconscious level it’s pulling your attention away from your current job. Awaiting the ping of an email to confirm your interview, or making eyes at your phone every 10 minutes waiting for your offer.
It’s important not to neglect your current job. You owe it to your current employer to remain productive and that your work ethic is consistent. This will ensure that your professional credibility remains intact and that your reference will be totally reflective of your work.
Use your spare time – weekends, lunch breaks or evenings after work to craft the perfect CV and work on your interview prep. Taking some annual leave so you dedicate a few days to the job search might not be a bad idea. Especially if you’re regularly talking to recruiters or doing phone interviews, when you need to have a distraction free environment to perform at your best.
Your boss could find out
As we all know from our daily interactions, Ireland is a very small country. If you’re actively looking for another job the chances that your company will find out get higher the longer your search. Sneaking around – taking longer lunch breaks, and ‘doctor visits’ can put a lot of unnecessary stress on your daily life.
If you get on well with your manager you could approach them and be honest that you’re looking for another job. Being open and honest, and approaching it in a mature way means you will get a better reference, and that you can still do business with your manager in the future. This is all hinging on the type of relationship you have with your boss. So tread carefully.
It could be worth your while staying
If you have one foot out the door it might be worth considering pulling it back inside again. Companies are more determined than ever to keep hold of their talent. Good talent is hard to find and when you leave your job, you also bring with it the relationships you’ve fostered and the insight you’ve gleaned during your time with that company. That’s a valuable asset to lose.
Discussing why you’re leaving can create a path for you with your current employer – development, progression, new responsibilities. Whatever it is you’re craving from jumping ship you could get from your current organisation. Maybe there’s a new position in the pipeline that you’re unaware of?
When it comes to searching for your next job you are undoubtedly in a better position to get hired if you’re employed. Having said that, if by trying to balance it all you’ve become unfocused, distracted and disengaged, your manager will have noticed and will be the most prominent thing mentioned when they provide your reference. You want to go out on a high and start a new job with the impression that you are an ambitious, dedicated employee. So if you are looking for a job make sure both feet stay firmly planted in your current job until an offer rolls in. Your career will thank you for it.