Should I tell my manager I'm looking at another job?

[MajesticUnicorn]

Hi all,

 

I'm at a crossroads, and hoping to get some advice.

 

Recently, I came across a job opening nearby that I am pretty excited about. It would essentially be what I am currently doing, but as a management role. I'd have more responsibility, higher pay, better perks, etc. I really want to apply for the job.

 

My current job I am happy at. I've been with the company a few years now and have consistently gotten raises (NOT large, the highest is a 3.5% increase year over year). There are definitely frustrations at times, but it's manageable. My biggest concern is there is not a lot of opportunity for growth. I could see myself sticking around for a while, but I know at a certain point I'll probably have to move on to get to where I want to be professionally.

 

I want to apply for the job, but here is where things get complicated. I live in a very small vacation/tourist town, so the actual population of locals is pretty tiny. If I were to apply for the job, I have a feeling it would get around. The hiring manger/my potential boss at the new job, my department already works closely with. I have a feeling she would mention it to my boss if I do apply. And if I apply and didn't get the job, it might create an awkward situation working with her in the future.

 

I have a close relationship with my manager. Part of me wants to mention I saw the opening and am interested in learning more about it. But I don't want that to come across as I'm definitely leaving, and that I've been looking for other jobs actively, because I haven't/

 

Any thoughts on what I should do?

[preraph]

You have to ask the new potential employer to keep your application secret and tell her she can't get a reference from your present company. Now, if she's buds with the guy, she will do it anyway and those two will keep a secret.

 

I don't know the situation, but if the new potential employer relies on your present company for business, they may not touch you with a ten foot pole for fear of messing up the relationship. If they are competitors, they well may be willing to hire you if they like your work and keep it quiet until you give notice. You should give plenty of notice.

[MajesticUnicorn]

You have to ask the new potential employer to keep your application secret and tell her she can't get a reference from your present company. Now, if she's buds with the guy, she will do it anyway and those two will keep a secret.

 

I don't know the situation, but if the new potential employer relies on your present company for business, they may not touch you with a ten foot pole for fear of messing up the relationship. If they are competitors, they well may be willing to hire you if they like your work and keep it quiet until you give notice. You should give plenty of notice.

 

 

Thank you for your response.

I reached out (from a generic email address not associated with my name) to see if they were even accepting applicants still, and they said they filled the position already so I guess that's my answer.

 

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[preraph]

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[alphamale]

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