How to look for a new job while you are still employed

Searching from a job is a strength

Looking for your next role while still employed gives you time to choose well and a stronger negotiating position. You do not have to accept the first offer. The trade-off is limited time and the need for discretion.

Start by being clear on what you want: the role, the salary range, the work mode, and the kind of team. A short list of target roles keeps your search focused when evenings and weekends are the only time you have.

Keep your search confidential

• Do not use your work laptop, work email, or office internet for applications.
• Do not tell colleagues until you have resigned.
• Update your online profiles quietly, and avoid announcing that you are "open to work" publicly if your employer may see it.
• Use a personal phone number and email on your resume.
• Choose job platforms that let you control what your current employer can see.

Scheduling interviews around work

Ask recruiters for early morning, lunchtime, or evening slots for video rounds. Most are used to working around notice periods and office hours. For in-person rounds, take a planned day of leave rather than inventing reasons to leave early.

Group interviews into the same week where you can. It saves leave and helps offers arrive close together so you can compare them.

Answering 'Why are you leaving?'

Keep it forward-looking and short. Talk about what you want next, not what you dislike now.

I have learnt a lot in my current role, especially in [area]. I am looking for a role with more ownership of [skill or area], which is what drew me to this position.

Never criticise your current employer in an interview. It makes the panel wonder what you will say about them later.

Plan around your notice period

Check your contract for the notice period, and whether early release or buyout is possible. Share an honest joining date with the new employer. Promising an early date you cannot meet damages trust before you start.

Resign only after you have a signed offer letter. Verbal offers can change. For negotiation tips, read our guide on notice period negotiation.

Make the search efficient

With limited time, apply only where you are a strong fit. On hiARed every job posted by an employer shows its salary range and interview process, so you can skip roles that do not meet your expectations before spending an evening on the application. Job Match shows how your resume compares with each job's required skills. Browse jobs.

Frequently asked questions