In the world of career advancement and job searching, there’s a golden rule that often goes unheeded: the best time to search for a job is when you already have one. This piece of advice, while seemingly counterintuitive, holds a wealth of wisdom and strategy for the savvy professional. Let’s delve into why this is the case and how you can leverage your current position to land a job that not only pays better but also brings you greater satisfaction and quality of life benefits.
Understanding job market and hiring psychology from employer’s view is crucial
When you’re unemployed and on the hunt for a new role, there’s an underlying sense of urgency and, sometimes, desperation. This can often lead to a power imbalance where the employer holds all the cards. They know you need the job, which can lead to lower salary offers and less favorable terms. It’s a buyer’s market, and unfortunately, you’re the product.
On the flip side, when you’re gainfully employed and casually perusing the job market, you’re in a position of strength. You’re not desperate; you’re desirable. This desirability gives you leverage in negotiations. You can afford to be choosy, to wait for the right opportunity, and to ask for more because you have the luxury of a steady paycheck backing you up. It’s a seller’s market, and this time, you’re in demand.
The psychological advantage of job searching while employed cannot be overstated. As Leia O’Connell, MSW, Contributor and Career Coach, APUS, puts it, ‘The best time to start looking for a job is when you already have one.’ This approach allows you to feel secure in your job search, knowing that even if it takes time, you can remain in your current role without the pressure of immediate financial need. It’s about playing the long game, strategically positioning yourself for opportunities that align with your career goals and personal values.
Moreover, when you’re already employed, you have the opportunity to negotiate for more than just a matching salary. You can aim for a 10-20% increase in pay, additional PTO, or other quality of life improvements. And if negotiations don’t pan out? You’re no worse off than before. You simply return to your current job and continue the search until the right offer comes along.
But why do so many professionals stay complacent in their roles, even when they’re unhappy? Often, it’s the comfort of the known versus the fear of the unknown. The day-to-day tasks are familiar, the job is understood, and there’s a sense of security—even if it comes at the cost of personal happiness. This was the case for the individual O’Connell spoke with, who had been with her company for nearly two decades. Despite her unhappiness, she chose security over satisfaction, a choice that many others make every day.
This doesn’t have to be your story. If you find yourself asking whether job security is worth sacrificing your happiness, consider that many people find joy in their work. You could be one of them, but it requires taking the leap and starting the job search while you still have the safety net of your current job.
As we explore the job market, it’s important to note that not all times of the year are created equal for job hunting. According to labor market researcher Indeed Hiring Lab, job postings typically surge during the second week of January through February. Companies set new goals and require new personnel to achieve them. This influx of job openings makes the beginning of the year an optimal time to start your search.
However, it’s not just about timing. It’s also about strategy. Start with self-reflection. What industry excites you? What role do you see yourself thriving in? Remember, every industry has a variety of positions. You might work in HR but dream of the sports industry. Well, the New York Yankees need HR professionals too. It’s about aligning your skills and passions with the opportunities available.
Improve your skills while working
Carefully examine the qualifications sought by employers for your desired roles. If you’re lacking, find ways to build those skills in your current position. Collaborate with other departments, take on new projects, or consider further education or certifications. Set your target and map out the steps to get there.
Job searching while employed is a strategic move that can lead to better opportunities, higher pay, and greater job satisfaction. It’s about leveraging your current position to negotiate from a place of strength and security. Don’t let complacency or fear hold you back from exploring new horizons. Remember, you deserve to be happy for those eight hours a day. So, if you’re not passionately saying ‘YES!’ to liking your job, it’s time to start looking for the next one. The job market awaits, and with the right approach, your dream job could be just around the corner.
As we continue to navigate the job search landscape, it’s crucial to arm ourselves with practical tips and strategies that can make the journey less daunting and more successful. The job market is a complex ecosystem, and understanding how to maneuver within it while you’re currently employed can be the difference between landing a dream job and missing out on great opportunities. Let’s dive into some actionable advice that can help you make the most of your job search.
Update your resume early in your job search. Your resume is often the first impression you make on a potential employer, so it needs to shine. Remember the advice from Marc Cenedella, founder of job search site Ladders and resume writing site Leet Resumes, who emphasized the importance of including specific numbers and achievements. For instance, if you’re an event planner, don’t just say you planned events—specify that you organized ’76 events last year with 21,000 attendees and received 137 glowing reviews.’ These details can make your resume stand out and show potential employers the tangible value you can bring to their organization.
Networking is another key element of a successful job search. Don’t just ‘click and forget’ when applying for jobs online. A human touch can make all the difference. Reach out to your professional network, attend industry events, and even consider informational interviews with companies you’re interested in. These connections can provide insights into the company culture, potential job openings, and may even lead to a referral. As Cenedella pointed out, figuring out who you know or who to call to follow up can significantly boost your chances of getting your resume seen and remembered.
Indeed Hiring Lab’s Nick Bunker notes job postings rise from mid-January to February. Companies are setting new goals and looking for fresh talent to help achieve them. This makes the beginning of the year an optimal time to start your search. However, don’t be discouraged if you’re starting your search at a different time of the year. Job opportunities arise all the time, and with the right approach, you can find success regardless of the season.
Consider the industries that are currently seeing the most hiring. Traditional professional jobs like accounting or legal often have openings at the start of the year, but demand for in-person, face-to-face positions, such as nursing and food preparation, remains high. Even if the tech industry is cooling off, as Cenedella mentioned, there are still plenty of opportunities in other sectors.
Negotiating your job offer is another critical step. While the market may have shifted slightly in favor of employers, you still have room to negotiate. You may not be able to demand everything on your wish list, but you can prioritize what’s most important to you, whether that’s salary, remote work, or benefits. Be prepared to make trade-offs, as Bunker noted, especially if remote work is a key part of your desired compensation package.
Remember the power of self-reflection in your job search. Leia O’Connell, MSW, Contributor and Career Coach, APUS, encourages starting with the question of what industry excites you and where you see yourself thriving. Align your skills and passions with the opportunities available, and don’t be afraid to aim high. Whether it’s transitioning into the sports industry or pursuing a role in a field you’ve always been passionate about, the key is to start looking and to keep building your qualifications over time.
Searching for a job while you’re already employed is a strategic move that requires careful planning, a strong network, and a clear understanding of your own goals and values. It’s about taking control of your career trajectory and not settling for comfort over happiness. With the right approach, you can negotiate from a position of strength, find joy in your work, and ultimately, make the leap to a job that fulfills you both professionally and personally. Remember, the best time to look for a job is now, and with persistence and determination, the job of your dreams is within reach.
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