I wonder, did anyone else ever had this problem. I have a full time job, but I also want to look for a better job. I can't just quit because I have a family and honestly, we wouldn't last a month...<p>So how can I look for a job? I'll have to answer phone calls during working hours from my current work place, and I will have to go to job interviews. Is this even possible without quitting or letting the employer know?
I'm one of four directors in a company with 25 employees. If one of my colleagues wanted to look for another job, I'd want to help them. That might be by making them happier in their current work, or it might be by helping them find another position in our company, or, as a last resort, helping them find a position they're happier with in another company.<p>Absolutely I'd want to keep them, but sometimes that's not possible. Even if they leave, I'd help them remain productive, plan their exit, and control the hand-over.<p>If finding another job is the path they'd take, I'd find a way to let people take calls and attend interviews. Obviously we'd discuss either longer hours to make up the time, or a reduction in pay, but we'd find a way to agree how it would work.<p>If you can't talk to your current boss, moving out is the best thing to do, but the least you can do it talk to them first and give them the chance to make things better, or help you transition to a job where you're happier.
You'd be surprised how accommodating a potential-employer can be. Just be truthful: "I can't interview 9-5 because I have a job." If anything, that will make you <i>more</i> attractive. If they're eager to fill the position they'll work with you; keep in mind you're probably not the only candidate who has a job already, so it's likely that they're planning to conduct some interviews during off-hours/weekends anyway.
Why don't you just tell your employer you are looking for another job? Is your fear that they would fire you on the spot? In my experience that is an unfounded fear and most employers want to know the reasons that led you to looking for a another job to begin with so that they can work with you to fix any issues that led to your decision to look for work elsewhere.
Most interviewers/companies understand that you work during usual work hours. That said, you should be able to step out for 15 minutes to take a call during work. If you get questioned about it, just tell them that it was an important personal call. And you could try to schedule these calls around lunch or your usual afternoon break time.<p>You can always schedule job interviews on Saturdays. Again, most interviewers understand the circumstances and usually do hiring on Saturdays to accommodate those who are working.
Not only is it possible, but it's utterly normal. As others have said, tell interviewers your constraints.<p>Hopefully, taking a vacation day (or half day) isn't impossible at your current job. Having appointments in the middle of the day isn't unusual. Make sure all phone calls are scheduled and step out to take them.