5 Tips For Searching For That Dream Job While Working Full-Time

Searching for your dream job while working full-time may seem like it’s all sunshine and rainbows. After all, you’re already collecting a paycheck and you know that most recruiters prefer employed candidates because they have current skills, right? If you thought that though, you would be incorrect. 

Unless your employer has informed you of upcoming layoffs and allowed you to use working hours to look for new jobs, applying for open positions can be a nightmare. To succeed, you must make stealthy moves. If you are wondering how to do this, continue reading.

Keep Your LinkedIn Profile Up-To-Date

Most recruiters use social media when hiring and LinkedIn is one of the most widely used platforms. You should update your profile regularly because potential employers are more likely to look at it when your resume shows up.  

When updating your profile, consider the following:

  • Turn off your notifications to avoid broadcasting your updates across your entire network.
  • Ensure that your updates are consistent with your current position.

Schedule Your Interviews Outside Work Hours

If you’re called for interviews, request for slots outside of work hours. Most employers will understand your request if you’re open about your need for discretion.

Some candidates often call in sick but that is not always a wise move. Your boss may want to have a conference call with you or you may start to raise some suspicions with so many doctor appointments. Therefore, it would be best to  just take a day off and focus on preparing for your interviews.

Avoid Listing Your Boss As A Reference Too Early

After working with your current employer for a while, you may be tempted to list your boss as a reference.  Although it is natural, it could jeopardize your job search especially if a potential employer were to call your boss before making you an offer.

Always remember that reference checks should be the last step in your job hunt and not a screening tool. So, don’t offer any reference until the process is complete.

Remain Efficient At Work

Remaining productive and efficient at work while looking for another job can be challenging, but you can’t afford to be unproductive.

The secret is staying organized and planning ahead. And here are a few ways to do just that:

  • Create an outstanding cover letter
  • Update your resume and online profile
  • Prioritize work-related tasks
  • Set deadlines
  • Update your calendar regularly

Don’t Jump The Gun

Just because you had a hopeful interview does not mean you can act prematurely. Keep in mind that you only have your current job until you receive, accept, and sign another job offer, so tread carefully. Do not drop hints, pick fights, or check out from your current responsibilities.  

Job hunting while working full-time requires you to be patient, discreet, and efficient. But with these tips, you can look for your dream job and still meet your current job’s expectations. Do you want to learn more? Contact NEXTAFF today!

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Who is NEXTAFF? We are locally owned and operated staffing offices devoted to our communities, clients, and candidates throughout the United States. For more job tips and ideas, contact us. We are always hiring, so if you or someone you know is looking for work, check out our job board below and apply today! We are able to service all your staffing agency needs with local staffing offices in Sacramento-CA, Sonoma County-CA, Des Moines-IA, Raleigh-NC, Shawnee-KS, Topeka-KS, Detroit-MI, Kansas City-MO, Gulf Coast-MS, Phoenix-AZ, Miami-FL, Harrisburg-PA, Jackson-TN, Beaverton-OR, Pittsburgh-PA, and North Dallas-TX.

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Meet Shane...

Shane’s journey with Nextaff began in 2019, when he established a successful franchise in the Kansas City metro area. His experience as a Nextaff franchise owner provides prospective buyers with a completely transparent view of the Nextaff Franchise Opportunity. Prior to his time at Nextaff, Shane led large sales teams in the Financial Services and Medical Device industries, further developing his expertise in leadership and business management.

Do you play sports?

Basketball! I was fortunate enough to play college basketball all 4 years and in 2013 we won the NCAA DII National Championship.

What do you love most about your current role?

Getting to know prospective franchise buyers. I love hearing about their goals and dreams they want to achieve through entrepreneurship.

What is your favorite color?

Orange! Yes, it is one of Nextaff’s main colors but it was my favorite before coming to Nextaff. In the franchising world, I’m known as “Orange pants guy”.

Meet Cary...

When it comes to operating a staffing firm, Cary has worn every hat.  From recruiting, to sales, to management, to ownership, he has been involved in every aspect of running a successful staffing business.  He has successfully led three separate companies to the Inc. 500 and Inc. 5000 lists, which puts him in an elite class of staffing entrepreneurship.  Combining that experience with a strong passion for entrepreneurs makes Cary an ideal leader for driving the Nextaff vision. 

Describe yourself in three words.

Loyal, Driven, Creative

Is there a mantra or affirmation you live by?

Do what you said you were going to do.

Do you have a celebrity doppelganger?

Back in the day, it was John Cusak.  “I want my two dollars!”