by Ann E. Smith

Created on: April 21, 2009

They say it's easier to find a job while you have a job. There may be some truth to that, as you feel less pressure when you are employed. You still have income, and you are in a sense looking for something better.

But, how can you look for a new job while still working your old job? Below are a few tips as to who to do just that.

* Build a network.

Networking is important for finding a new job. It's true that it's often who you know, not what you know.

To build a network, join a professional organization and attend some of its luncheons or meetings. Be sure to talk to others there, and trade business cards.

Another great tool for networking is www.linkedin. This site provides a way for you to easily network with those who are in other states or even countries. This online networking site is easy to use, and it is very popular with professionals.

You may also want to network within the company where you are currently employed. To build that network, get involved or find ways to interact with people outside of your department. Use the company gym, and network there. Join specialty groups.

* Work your network.

Once you have built a network, it's time to work it. You will want to use your contacts as information sources why may lead you to a new job.

If you really want a new job, consider talking to people who have the job you want. Take someone to lunch, and ask that person what they like and do not like about their jobs. That way, you can find out information about a job, and express interest in pursuing it.

If you are looking to keep the same type of job but change companies, reach out to trusted contacts to find out if their companies have open positions in your line of work. The key here is to be subtle with these conversations.

You do not really want it to get back to your boss that you are looking for another job. That could lead to some problems at your current job. If your boss thinks you are about to fly the coop, then he or she may overlook you when it comes to new opportunities.

Another way to work your network is to search for jobs on www.linkedin.com. If you find a posted position that is of interest to you, then you can actually use this online site to see if any of your contacts are connected to the person who posted the position. Talk about networking at its best!

* Consider working with a headhunter.

Like anything else in life, there are pros and cons to working with headhunters or recruiters. If you are serious about looking for a new job, you may want to work with a headhunter.

Often these professionals have access to certain positions that are not posted online. They also may be the preferred vendor for certain companies for filling certain positions.

One great thing about working with a headhunter is that they can try to line up interviews for you. If you are still employed while on a search, then this can be very helpful. You can devote your time to your job, and have the headhunter conduct the search for you.

* Look at online job sites.

You can always search for jobs on sites such as www.careerbuilder.com or www.monster.com. These sites are places where many employers post open positions.

You can browse for jobs on your off-time from work, and then pursue those that may be of strong interest. You can also use these sites to find out information about other jobs that are out there. Your interest may be peaked in something you had not thought of before.

These are but a few of the tactics you can take to look for a job while you still are employed. Looking for a job is a multi-pronged approach. The process may be less stressful, though, when you are employed as there is less pressure on you.

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