A little over a decade ago, it was not uncommon to find people spending a lifetime on their first full-time jobs in Ghana. Today, it’s not unusual to have worked for two or more different companies by the time you reach age 30. In many cases, this means that workers are interviewing for new positions while they’re still employed.
Searching for a new job while you already have one can be a difficult situation to navigate. It is my considered opinion that these six tips will be useful.
Silence Is Golden at Work
While you want to get the word out to prospective employers, you don’t want to mention your job search to your current co-workers, not even to your closest confidants. All it takes is a single slip of the tongue and your desire to move on to greener pastures will become the No. 1 item on the gossip grapevine. This can make your remaining tenure uncomfortable, as your co-workers and boss question will inevitably question your commitment and loyalty.
Tell Everybody Else
It is always imperative to leverage on your networks for information when job searching. Thus, while you don’t want your current employer to know that you actively prospecting for a new job, you do want everybody else you know to be in the loop and on the lookout to for job openings. Make sure your friends and family know that you in the market for a new job and ask them to keep an eye out for opportunities that might be a good fit for you. You just never know when a friend has a contact who could lead to your big break.
Stay Current on LinkedIn and online jobs in Ghana portals
LinkedIn is one of the best-known electronic tools for job seekers, so make sure your LinkedIn profile is up to date. Having a complete profile on LinkedIn provides an opportunity for potential employers to find you, as many recruiters and hiring managers troll the site for prospects. Also be regular to popular online jobs portals especially Jobberman Ghana.
Maintain a Low Profile
Conduct your job search on your time, not on company time. Don’t use the firm’s telephones, computers, mail room or other resources to support your effort to find a new job. When you start to land interviews, try to schedule them during periods when your absence from work will be the least disruptive.
Keep Working
Even if you are completely miserable and desperate to leave your current job, it is critical that you continue to deliver high-quality work for your current employer. You are being paid to do the job, so as long you remain on the payroll, you owe it to your employer to put forth your best effort. Not only is it the right thing to do, but it’s also a smart career move. If your new job doesn’t work out, your old job might suddenly look a whole lot better. If you want to have any hope of getting that job back, it’s best not to have burned any bridges.
Learn From the Search
Looking for a job can teach you a lot. You can test your value in the marketplace, find out what competing companies are seeking when they look for talent and learn whether your skills are up-to-date and in demand. You might even learn that your current job isn’t so bad after all.
The Bottom Line
It is said that the best time to look for a new job is when you already have one. Being employed puts you in a better negotiating position. It enables you to take the time to conduct a careful job search and gives you the luxury of being able to turn down unattractive offers without putting yourself in a financial bind. A well-orchestrated search will minimize disruptions at your current office, enabling you to continue to pay your bills even as you seek greener pastures. A professional work ethic and appropriate notice when you tender your resignation will protect your reputation and maintain positive relationships for possible future endeavors.
