How to Be Successful at Your Job While Looking For The Next One

Just because you’re looking for a new job doesn’t give you a pass to neglect your current one.

Your next job can be over before it starts if you mistreat your current position.

Remember: you can still find a job while remaining a stellar employee.

Looking for a new job requires some discretion because your current employer won’t appreciate your job hunting on their time.

They say looking for a new job IS a job in itself.

But how can you remain successful at your current position while in the hunt for a new one?

Follow these tips to ensure that you’re maintaining good habits for success.

How To Remain Successful at Your Current Work While Looking for a New Job

1) Keep Your Desk Well-Organised

Not only does office cleanliness improve your productivity, but it also gives a good impression to your bosses.

You may wonder how something that seems so insignificant can be so important.

Keeping a clean office space shows that you take some pride in your position and the company.

If your desk is in the view of customers or top executives, a sloppy appearance will bring further negative impact on you.

Not only can an untidy appearance make you look bad, but it can do little to improve the overall morale of your co-workers.

You know how at home, a messy environment can bring stress to you and your family?

The same is true at work.

Also, messy environments will bring extra cold and flu bacteria, which can make your day even worse.

On the contrary, a tidy workspace will help to improve your focus, productivity, and overall morale.

Follow these tips to make sure that your workspace remains well-organised.

• Immediately discard old and unused documents. Not only will this help your space to remain tidy, but you reduce the risk of exposing sensitive information.

• Dust regularly. If you use a computer keyboard, dust in between the keys. You’ll stay healthier by eliminating allergens and everything will stay new and shiny. 

• Keep unnecessary items off of your desk by storing them in drawers.

2) Maintain Your Routine at Work

If you were always a model employee, remain one even while you’re looking for a new job.

If you begin to slack off in little things, like arriving on time or abusing breaks and lunch time, your bosses will look at you in a different light.

You don’t want to burn any bridges because you never know when you’ll need to contact your current supervisors for a recommendation.

If you begin to slack off at work, you’ll no longer be considered for special privileges, which could kill potential networking opportunities.

Do what you’re supposed to do, but also go above and beyond so your job will have a positive view of you even long after you leave.

Many companies prefer to hire those with established work records, and who are currently employed.

You don’t want the added pressure of explaining in a job interview why you suddenly quit.

It may make them question your dedication.

Besides, quitting your job before you have a solid job offer is a risk that could add unnecessary stress to your job search.

Try to keep things as easy as possible.

3) Consider New and Different Careers

If you’re NOT satisfied in your current position, take a close look at the reason why.

The problem may not be the company, but the field in itself.

If you’re honest with yourself, you’ll avoid running into the same problem at your next position.

Make a list of the pros and cons of your current job.

Seeing your reasons in writing will help you understand the REAL reason you’re unhappy.

No matter how long you’ve been in your field, it’s never too late to consider a career change.

Consider learning a new language or a skill in a field completely different from your own.

You may find that you don’t need to leave your current position at all.

You may just be satisfied with learning a new hobby.

Volunteer with local organizations to practice your new skill.

If you do decide to leave your job, you’ll have the experience and skills you’ll need.

If you are learning a new skill, you need some humility.

If you’re set on looking for a new job, you probably won’t be at the same level you’re currently at.

Be willing to put some work in to move up the ladder again.

Be goal-oriented.

This is a trait that radiates more than you think.

Those that are in-charge will appreciate your confidence and consider you for new positions or opportunities within your current job.

Setting goals will keep you from becoming stuck in a rut.

You’ll keep your routine fresh and interesting.

4) Stay Positive and Network

Try to spend time with positive people.

Negative thinking is a discouragement that can hurt your confidence and your job search.

Focus on the good things at your job.

Is there anything you succeed at?

If you’re maintaining your current routine and going above and beyond your responsibilities, you may be considered for opportunities that will make it more interesting.

This will hold you off until you find a new position.

Look for support with your family or friends.

Do you know anyone who’s experienced in writing resumes or cover letters?

Do you know someone who’s in a field that you would like to learn more about?

Ask questions and build contacts.

Maybe you’re satisfied with your own field, but would like to work for another company.

Learn everything you can about your industry.

Read trade magazines and attend relevant conferences and events.

Looking for a new job is stressful.

Make it as easy as possible for yourself.

Don’t get discouraged by rejection; it’s all part of the process.

You may find that a job that rejected you only made room for one that would be a better fit.

End each day with reflecting on the positive things that you’ve achieved.

5) Be Discreet

The number ONE RULE about job hunting is to be discreet about it.

True, you may eventually need a good word from your current supervisors, but wait until you’re almost certain you’ll receive a job offer before approaching them.

If you have an open relationship with your boss, you may feel comfortable giving him or her a head’s up.

But keep it on a need-to-know basis.

Try NOT to list current supervisors or co-workers as references.

Co-workers may have their eye on your job, so being too open about your search may make things difficult at your current one.

Avoid posting your resume on online job boards; your boss may see it.

Don’t come to work dressed for an interview if this isn’t how you normally dress.

It could raise some suspicions.

Schedule job interviews OUTSIDE of your normal business hours.

Potential employers will also respect you if you try to schedule interviews during times that won’t interfere with your current business.

Let them know that you’re keeping your job search confidential.

They’ll only contact your current supervisors if they’re prepared to make a job offer.

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Looking for a new job requires some work.

No matter how old you are or how long it’s been since you’ve completed a job search, you can be successful.

Be productive at work, stay positive, network, and most of all, be discreet.