How to interview while employed

You might be happily employed or looking for a way out of your current work situation. In any of these scenarios, you are entitled - and sometimes encouraged - to check out what is out there. Perhaps it's out of curiosity. You have been with the same company or in the same role for a long time, and you have lost touch with current market trends. Or you might be driven by a more pressing need for change, because you feel stagnant, burned out, or unmotivated in your current role.

In any case, interviewing with another company while you are already employed is nothing to feel guilty about. However, you do need to adhere to some 'rules' that will help you make the right choices, protect your current work situation, and also elevate you in the eyes of potential employers.

Be selective

If you are already in employment, you have a significant advantage: choice. When you are not anxious about making a living, you can be more selective about the opportunities you explore further. Take the time to focus on the companies and roles you feel would be the best fit for you and know that you don't have to attend every interview you are invited to if you decide that the opportunity doesn't align with your greater vision and goals.

Be upfront about your current employment status

There is no need to hide the fact that you are employed; it is well within your rights to explore another opportunity, provided you go about it the right way. However, you do need to be prepared for the inevitable question: Why do you want to leave your current role? Here, you need to balance honesty with tactfulness, which brings us to the next point.

Never discredit your current employer or job

You might be miserable in your current role for various reasons: the organisation fails to support your needs; there are serious communication issues between you and your manager and/or colleagues; you feel unchallenged, bored, or overwhelmed. No matter the situation, do not treat your interviewer as your confidante, hoping they will sympathise. When asked about the reasons you are actively looking for another job, you can mention the good things you have taken away from your current role, expressing your desire to explore your potential further. That way, you are letting a prospective employer know that if down the line you decide to pursue another opportunity, you will grant them the same courtesy.

Keep your job search private

Do not share your job search activities in your current work environment, even with colleagues you consider friends. If your pursuits leak out in any way, even unintentionally, you might be put in an awkward position with your manager or boss. When sending out your resume, do it via private channels.

Remain present

It is important not to let your job search interfere with your current work. Schedule interviews for outside your working hours and save your search and application activities for evenings or weekends. While you are still officially with an employer, keep up the quality of your work and continue to carry out your duties to the same standard.

Exit respectfully

Finally, if you do decide to switch roles, give your current employer sufficient notice, and make sure you part in the best of terms.

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EURES - Things to consider when making a career change

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