Why You Really Shouldnt Job Hunt at Work

Why You Really Shouldnt Job Hunt at WorkWhy You Really Shouldnt Job Hunt at WorkWhy You Really Shouldnt Job Hunt at WorkDid you ever hear the expression, Just because you can, doesnt mean you should? I usually say it to my teenage son as he heads off with his friendsto the all-you-can-eat buffet. Butit also applies to todays blog topic Searching for a new job using your current employers resources. You can. But you shouldnt. Dont get me wrong. Its perfectly all right to look for a new job while youre still employed. In fact, its the best way to do it. Theres less pressure, and employersmay be more apt to hire already-employed people (which is ridiculous and unfair, but thats another topic). Job hunting while employed is only a harte nuss when your job search takes time or money away from the company that currently provides your paychecks.First of all, thats unethical. But even if you believe youre justified because of all your unpaid overtime or the fact youve been underpaid for year s, the likelihood of getting caughtand firedshould be enough to stop you from doing it. So what, you may be thinking, I hate my job. Id love to get fired OK, but just so you know, getting fired could make you ineligible to collect unemployment. And it makes it a lot tougher to answer the interview question, Why did you leave your last job? Here are two more things to consider if youre thinking of looking for a new job while youre at work.The Electronic Paper TrailRemember, employers have access to all your emails, instant messages, faxes, and phone calls. Even if you delete them, those messages live on in the backup archives. The company can also track the web sites you visiteven if youre at home if youre using a company-provided laptop or yourelogged in remotely to the company network. They pay for the resources, so they have every right to monitor their use. Online Friends and ConnectionsYou should also stop yourself if youre thinking of Tweeting about the great job posting you ju st found, posting photos on Facebook of your awesome new interview suit, or updating your LinkedIn account to mention that youre seeking new opportunities. These things have a way of falling into the wrong hands.Beware the old-fashioned grapevine, too. Even if you dont specifically tell anyone youre job hunting, coworkers will overhear your phone calls or spot those resumes you left on the office printer. That kind of gossip is too juicy not to share.If your current job is atrocious, the best way to absprache with it is to find a better job on your own time.Be creative. Slip out to the car on your lunch hour or break to make phone calls or search the internet. Take time before or after work. Use the library. Take a day off. Another expression also applies here Be good. But if you cant be good, at least be careful