If you are looking for a new job, there are guidelines you should follow to maintain your integrity as a professional.

It’s important to leave your current employer on the best possible terms. You never know you may need to approach them for a job down the track even if you have changed career.

Searching for a job while still employed has its advantages and drawbacks. The downside is you won’t have the same time as an unemployed person in job searching, but the great advantage is that your skills are being used and are current, so you are up to date with the industry’s happenings, let alone your contacts. Having a job also provides you with an income. 

Keep these general guidelines handy:

Avoid telling your workmates and manager that you’re looking for a new job. There may be instances when circumstance dictates that you need to tell your manager. For example, there is an internal job being advertised and you are interested. To a certain extent, how you relate to your manager will have some bearing. You may also need your manager to act as a reference person in your application. If your relationship with him is positive, he will support you in any way.

  • Restrict job-hunting activities to your home. Avoid the temptation of searching for job sites online while at work. This is not a good reflection on your image especially if a workmate catches you.     
  • Following your resignation, avoid being critical of your employer by dropping unnecessary comments in front of co-workers. Your friends in the workplace might be offended by your negative comments and might take this as bad-mouthing. 
  • Maintain a professional relationship with your employer while you are still in their employ.

You Got the Job and Ready to Resign

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Okay, so you finally found a job.   

It may take two weeks, a month, or longer, most businesses have a termination policy requiring you to serve notice. If you don’t serve your full notice, you might forfeit some or all your benefits like annual leave, perhaps sick leave.  

Your resignation should be coursed through your immediate manager. When you go and see him to discuss, you have your formal letter of resignation with you. A lot will depend on your relationship with your manager. Prepare yourself for possible outcomes – a manager could be understanding or resentful. Or, he might counter offer you for a better job position. If he counter offers, ask kindly that you need some time to think it through. But, if you have decided on taking the offer of the future employer, you should decline your manager’s offer, but do it politely.       

Continue your work to the best of your ability. Even on your last day, thank everyone – your manager and your workmates -  for their support, friendships and professionalism.