Job searching while employed (quietly)

The best time to look is when you do not have to. Do it discreetly, and do not burn the bridge you are standing on.

Keep it quiet

• Use personal email and personal devices for everything.
• Do not tell colleagues, even the friendly ones. News travels.
• Take calls before or after hours. "Appointment" is a fine reason to block 30 minutes.

Be careful with references

Do not list your current manager until you have a written offer and have given notice. Say "references available on request; current employer will be notified at offer stage."

Do not let your work slip

Your current role funds the search and may be your best reference. Slack off and you risk both. If anything, ship a little more visibly while you look.

Time it well

Interviews cluster. Block time in batches, and be realistic about how much you can hide. If you are deep in a process, it may be worth taking a day of leave rather than juggling.

Prepare the exit before you need it

Keep an updated CV and a tidy portfolio so an opportunity can move fast. And read negotiating the offer before you are in the room, leverage is highest while you still have a job.