How does one go about this? Assuming the next job requires an application and/or interview, how do you not step on anyone’s toes? On one hand, you don’t want to tell your supervisor you are actively looking elsewhere (especially if you are applying for other positions more than once, over a relatively long period of time), but on the other, if you do get hired elsewhere, they usually want you to start relatively soon, leaving your boss with few options. Ideally, leaving your current employer enough notice to find a replacement would be ideal, but I know this is difficult to do, especially in job areas where there are shortages and/or long training periods.
Friend of mine went through this and basically when he got an offer from another employer, it was news to everyone, including the supervisor. Granted, there was nothing the supervisor could do to prevent this from happening, it still seems like something one would want to avoid.
Regarding the issue about notice, I guess you should see if you have a contract or policy about giving notice, such as 2 weeks. I understand that “At will” employees may be able to leave with no notice, just like the employer can let you go with no notice and with no reason.
In this current situation with many lay offs and possible if not current recession, I think it’s probably prudent to keep looking. I also think most employers expect that. Some employers require background checks, so you may have no choice about your boss being contacted unless you don’t want the possible job.
I think what you need to keep in mind is that is “just business, nothing personal”.
I actually always advise people to keep their searches secret. It’s no one’s business but your own. Also, do not give more than 2 weeks notice, because you open yourself up to retaliation. I once gave 3 months notice at a job, and had everything gradually taken away (office, desk, computer) so that the last 2 weeks there I was forced to use a lab bench as a desk.
It’s funny, because I am giving notice at my current job on Monday. Since I am an Associate Director, you better believe it’s going to be a shock, but that’s life.
You can request confidentiality. Most HR departments will respect that.
And do be sure to give your current employer 2 weeks notice. It’s basic business courtesy, and again, I think your future employer should respect that, too. They’d want the same consideration from you.
Then again, if your current employer has recently laid people off with no notice without providing two-week severance pay, then I probably wouldn’t bother.
Keep in mind though that you may need the reference later.