Your client's job search is impacting their work performance. How can you navigate the conflicts that arise?

With over 16 years of HR and career counseling experience, I help clients balance their job search with current work responsibilities by first acknowledging the emotional and mental strain. I guide them in practicing mindfulness techniques to reduce stress and maintain focus at work. Together, we create a structured job search schedule that fits around their existing commitments, ensuring they can manage both effectively. Encouraging open communication with their employer, if appropriate, helps address any performance concerns while maintaining professionalism.

This is always a really tough balance in practice. The key is to help your client get organised and see if approaches like blocking out time (perhaps testing it during different parts of the day to find out what suits them best) and prioritising the job search over other activities if relevant. In terms of their work performance - an honest appraisal of the reasons for this and understanding their appetite to invest time in improving in their current role should be introduced into a session if appropriate. ??

While job hunting, it’s crucial to ensure your performance doesn't slip, balancing your search and interviews outside of work hours. Remaining professional and engaged in your current tasks helps preserve relationships with your coworkers and boss, preventing any damage to your reputation. Open communication about workload and deadlines is also important. When you do receive another offer and submit your resignation, continue giving your best during the notice period. This shows respect for your team & reflects well on the work you’ve done, allowing you to leave on good terms. By managing your responsibilities & job search effectively, you protect your reputation & maintain strong professional relationships that benefit you in the future.