The Passive Candidate Job Search

How do you find a new job when you already have one?

We call this the “Passive Candidate” job search. Here are 6 ideas to help you find your next role.

It can be a daunting task to look for a new role while you already have a job, especially if you don’t know where to start. If you are currently employed, you want to make sure you’re being respectful to your current employer, while also taking steps to advance your career. It’s important to stay organized and efficient during this process to avoid any unnecessary stress. This advice can also be applied to those that aren’t currently working.

Here are six steps and resources to consider when searching for a new role:

1. LinkedIn: Update your resume and LinkedIn profile

Before you start your job search, make sure your resume and LinkedIn profile are up-to-date. Highlight your achievements and responsibilities in your current role, and make sure your skills and experience are well-presented. Your LinkedIn profile should be professional, with a clear profile picture and summary. Keep your resume and LinkedIn profile consistent, with the same job titles and descriptions, so there are no discrepancies as most employers and recruiters will compare the two. Your LinkedIn profile should have a professional picture and be completely filled out under each section to provide a well-rounded snapshot of you as a business professional. Profiles without pictures or ones that aren’t completely filled out, will typically go unnoticed or will be contacted less by recruiters and hiring managers.

2. Network: This is one of the most valuable resources for your job search

Networking is one of the most important resources when looking for a job. Let people in your network know you’re looking for a new opportunity, and ask if they know of any openings that match your skillset. A lot of times your connections have open roles at their companies and would be happy to get you an introduction to hiring managers. Attend industry events and conferences, and connect with people on LinkedIn. Your network can provide you with valuable insights and introductions to potential employers.

3. Be Discrete: Be respectful and look afterhours (outside) company time

When looking for a new job, it’s important to keep it confidential, especially if you don’t want your current employer to know. Avoid using your work email or phone number, and be careful when updating your LinkedIn profile. When you use your company info to apply, it turns off potential recruiters or potential employers and shows you might not respect your current company. When searching for roles on LinkedIn, make sure your privacy settings are set to limit who can see your activity.

4. Job Sites & Search Engines: Leverage multiple sites and search engines

Job search websites such as LinkedIn Jobs, Indeed, and Glassdoor are great resources to find job openings. You can search by job title, location, and company. Set up email alerts for jobs that match your criteria and apply for jobs directly through the website. It’s important to use multiple resources as some companies or recruiters use just one platform to post their open roles. Primarily, we would suggest searching LinkedIn, Indeed, and other local industry websites as well as individual company websites in which you are interested in working for.

5. Find an Experienced Recruiter: Recruiters have deep relationships with hiring managers

Recruiters can be a great resource when looking for a new job. They can help you with your resume, provide you with interview tips, and connect you with potential employers. Reach out to recruiters in your industry, and let them know you’re looking for a new opportunity. Many times, a skilled and tenured recruiter will have deep relationships with companies and hiring managers in their specific area or industry of expertise. Many times, the companies enlist their agency recruiter to find them talent and disregard the typical online ad or posting due to their personal time constraints sourcing by themselves. Not only that, but recruiters can help your network, give advice, and can network you in the industry. It’s important to find the right recruiter with the right network to help you-one that you trust and feel comfortable with.

6. Be Patient: Don’t rush the process

Finding the right job takes time, and it’s important not to rush. Make sure the job is a good fit for your skills and experience, and that the company culture aligns with your values. Consider the commute, the salary, the benefits package, work/life balance, and flexibility.

Looking for a new job when you already have one can be a challenging task, but by staying organized and efficient, you can make the process much easier. Use your network, job search websites, and recruiters to find job openings. Don’t rush, and make sure the job is a good fit before accepting an offer.

For more job search or career advice, contact Arkansas Talent Group here.