Job Hunting While Employed: How to Search Discreetly and Safely

Why discretion matters more than you'd think

South African industries are often smaller, more connected networks than they appear — recruiters, managers and former colleagues frequently know each other, and word travels. Being discovered job hunting prematurely can affect how you're treated, sideline you from projects, or damage a reference before you've even secured a new role.

Practical steps to stay under the radar

• Set your LinkedIn "Open to Work" setting to recruiters only, not visible on your public profile.
• Use a personal email address and phone number on your CV and for all interview correspondence — never your work account.
• Schedule interviews around lunch breaks or use annual leave rather than repeated vague sick days, which draw more attention than an occasional planned absence.
• Avoid discussing your search on work Slack, Teams or WhatsApp groups, even ones that feel informal — messages get forwarded.
• Job search from your own device and data, not a work laptop or work wifi that may be monitored.

Handling notice periods and references

Under the Basic Conditions of Employment Act, standard statutory notice is one week for the first six months of employment, two weeks up to a year, and four weeks after that — though many contracts specify a longer notice period, so check yours before assuming. Factor your real notice period into any conversation about your available start date, since overpromising an unrealistic date early on can cost you credibility later.

For references, don't list your current manager unless you've already told them you're leaving. A former manager, a client you've worked closely with, or a senior colleague are safer, and equally credible, choices — just ask their permission before listing them.