The idea of searching for a new job while still employed can stir a swirl of emotions. On one hand, you might feel guilty, like you're betraying your current employer's trust. On the other hand, being proactive about your career is often the best way to achieve growth and fulfillment. It's a tough balancing act, but rest assured, you're not alone in facing this dilemma.

Many professionals, especially those in office or tech roles, find themselves asking this exact question. The short answer? Yes, it’s okay to look for a new job while maintaining your current one...as long as you approach it thoughtfully and with integrity.

Why You’re Allowed to Put Yourself First

Before we dive into the nuts and bolts of job searching discreetly, let's address the core concern many people have: loyalty. It's not uncommon to feel a sense of obligation to your current employer, especially if they’ve supported your growth or treated you well. But remember, the professional world is a two-way street. Just as companies make decisions in their best interest (whether that means layoffs, restructuring, or changing job roles) you’re allowed to prioritize your personal and professional development.

Think of it this way. Looking for a new job doesn’t mean you’re not committed to doing your best in your current role. It simply means you’re exploring opportunities that might align even better with your goals and aspirations. Growth, after all, often requires change.

The Practical Reasons Job Searching While Employed Makes Sense

Searching for a job while you’re employed often puts you in a stronger position. For one, it removes some of the pressure; you're not frantically searching to pay the bills, which means you can take your time and be selective. Additionally, employers tend to view employed candidates favorably, interpreting your current job as a sign that you remain in demand.

This doesn’t mean it's without challenges, though. The key is discretion, balancing your current job responsibilities with your search efforts, and avoiding actions that could compromise your professional reputation.

Practical Tips for a Discreet Job Search

1. Adjust Your LinkedIn Profile Settings

LinkedIn is often the first place recruiters look when scouting for talent, but declaring you’re “open to work” can be a red flag to your current employer. Thankfully, LinkedIn offers settings that allow you to signal your availability to recruiters without tipping off your network.

Go to your LinkedIn profile and enable the “Open to Work” feature under the preferences for recruiter settings. Opt for the option that limits visibility to only recruiters outside your current company. While this isn’t foolproof, it provides an additional layer of discretion.

2. Keep Personal and Professional Resources Separate

One of the cardinal rules of job searching while employed is avoiding the use of company resources. This means not browsing job boards on your work laptop, not printing resumes on the office printer, and never using your company email to communicate with prospective employers. Not only is this unprofessional, but it could also breach company policies.

Instead, conduct your job search on your own time—at home, on your personal devices, and using your personal email address. This ensures you’re maintaining an ethical boundary between your current role and your future aspirations.

3. Schedule Interviews Wisely

If you’re actively interviewing, consider scheduling these conversations during lunch breaks, early mornings, or late afternoons. Many hiring managers are understanding of your situation and willing to schedule around your availability. If possible, try to avoid taking too much time off from work or being unresponsive during office hours—it’s important to maintain your reputation as a reliable team member until your last day.

When taking calls or attending virtual interviews, choose a neutral, professional location where you won’t be interrupted. A coffee shop, co-working space, or home office can work well. Steer clear of taking interviews in your company’s office or even in your car in the parking lot: maintaining a physical and mental separation is key.

4. Be Cautious with Your Communication

It’s natural to want to share what’s going on in your professional world, but job searching is one topic that’s best kept private. Think twice before confiding in colleagues, even if they’re people you trust. Word travels quickly, and you could unintentionally create tension or jeopardize your current position.

Likewise, be mindful of social media. Posting about interviews or dropping vague tweets about moving on might seem harmless, but these can easily reach the wrong eyes. Keep your job search under wraps until you’re ready to make a formal announcement.

5. Honor Your Current Commitments

While searching for a new job, continue to give 100% to your current role. This means meeting deadlines, showing up for meetings, and remaining engaged in your work. Burning bridges never works in your favor, especially in industries where connections often matter just as much as competence. Leaving on a positive note ensures your professional reputation remains untarnished.

Navigating the Ethical Gray Area

Of course, job searching while employed does come with a mix of ethical considerations. Transparency is an important professional value, so you might wonder whether you owe it to your employer to tell them what’s going on.

For most professionals, the answer is no—not until you have a formal offer in hand and are ready to start negotiating your departure. Being upfront about your job search can place you in a vulnerable position. Employers might begin preparing for your exit earlier than you’re ready, or they could interpret your job search as a sign of disengagement.

The exception to this rule is if you believe your current employer would support your desire for growth and help you transition amicably, though this will depend largely on your relationship with your supervisor and the culture within your organization.

When all is said and done, searching for a new job is not an act of disloyalty—it’s an act of ambition. Taking the helm of your career demonstrates that you’re invested in your own growth and future, and that’s something to be proud of.