Workplace

In an ideal world, we could tell the boss about our plans to look for another job, said Lily Garcia in The Washington Post. In the real world, we might be out on the street long before another job offer came in. While you might feel a tad guilty for going behind the boss’ back, “there is nothing wrong with keeping your plans to yourself.” Don’t come up with elaborate lies for leaving the office to go to an interview. Just say you have a personal appointment. “If your boss presses you about the nature of the appointment, reiterate that it is personal. Most will leave the inquiry at that.”

Considering that the average job hunt takes four months, you’ll need to take care not to blow your cover, said Erin Burt in Kiplinger.com. Don’t tweak your résumé or search classifieds on company time. It’s unethical. It’s risky. “Plus your misuse of company time might turn off a prospective employer.” Do give prospective employers your private cell phone number and a personal e-mail address. The latter should include your first or last name. “Employers won’t take you seriously if you have ‘pookiewookie@email.com’ emblazoned on your résumé.” When it’s time to interview, don’t wear your suit and tie to the current job, if you work in a casual office. That’s a dead giveaway.

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