Tips for Conducting a Confidential Job Search

Many people conduct a job search while still employed and understand that this could jeopardize their current position. Realistically, it must be understood that there’s no way to guarantee a confidential job search and you should be prepared if your employer becomes aware.

However, here are a few common sense suggestions:

Given that it’s difficult to find a new position if you can’t network, be selective in who you tell. Pick only those you truly trust and ask them to relay any opportunities they are aware of directly to you and only you. There’s no need to divulge information about why you wish to change jobs, just the ability to articulate the type of position you want to pursue. Merely sharing your mission with others does not automatically result in job opportunities coming your way. You will need to be methodical about following up.

Give your contacts the names of specific companies you would like to work for and ask who they know you could contact. It’s wonderful when the person mentions you to the staff member, but it’s risky. This is especially true if you’re in a small or “everyone knows everyone” type of industry.

It’s not uncommon for an employer to search the online job sites for names of employees to see if their key staff are job hunting. Be very cautious (don’t actually) post your resume to job sites where it can be discovered by anyone. Don’t tweak your LinkedIn.com profile with information that could tip off your boss.

Consider having a “blind” version of your resume. Instead of your name, use something like “confidential.” While your current employer might be a big selling point in terms of securing a new position, resist the temptation and use a generic company name and description. You can explain why you’re keeping your information confidential in your cover letter, which would also have generic information.

There are also some “no brainers.” You would never conduct a job search while at work, would you? Of course not. More than one employee has been terminated because of such poor judgment. Of course you wouldn’t use your employer’s resources (phone, copier, printer, email, etc.) to conduct your search. Remember the commercial depicting the boss telling a subordinate in a staff meeting that he found her resume in the printer? Use only your personal contact information on your resume. Create an email address specifically for the job search, sam@gmail.com.

Consider using a recruiter to market your resume, but get it in writing that yours is a confidential search. Many employers hire recruiters to conduct confidential searches for candidates and it’s perfectly fine for candidates to do the same. The recruiter can put your information out there and vet the opportunities for you, all the while protecting your identity.

At some point, you will need to divulge your name to a potential employer. The further into the selection process you are before you have to give up your identity, the better. At that point, it’s a good idea to tell your current boss that you’re looking at another opportunity and deal with the consequences.

It’s difficult to conduct a confidential job search, but not impossible! Unfortunately, there’s no an “invisibility cloak!”