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How to Interview Incognito

By J. Mason
Online Career Tips Editor

Interviewing for the job of your dreams while still on assignment at your current residence can be tricky, but there are professional ways to go about it.

In my experience I’ve seen a majority of people interviewing on their lunch break; either in person, or by phone sitting in their car. There is a need to be clever, just so you don’t call attention to your current actions outside of the office.

Set up a “rendezvous” point

More than likely the potential employer will ask you to come into their office for the interview. If it is a phone interview, make sure you are a good distance away from your desk, co-workers, and manager before the call starts. Sitting in your car is fine, but make sure you’re not driving and you are in a safe spot.

Bring a change of clothes

Most offices have a dress code of business casual. This could mean slacks and a polo with loafers for a guy, and slacks, a nice blouse, and heels for a woman. On the interview you’ll want to change for a business professional look. This means a suit. Pack your garment bag and bring a change of shoes. Change close to the interview; I suggest in a clean bathroom, not in your car.

[What Not to Wear to a Job Interview]

Give alternate references

It could be awkward for your boss to get a call out of the blue from an employer looking to hire you. Make sure you let them know, when asked, that you are currently working. List a reference outside of your current company if you can. While you may have a reliable co-worker at your current job that offered to give you a reference, they may not be able to due to company policy. Most employers will understand, and will call to verify your employment upon making a final decision.

Use your time wisely

As I said before, interviewing on your lunch break is one of the best uses of your time. However, you are working around the hiring managers schedule, so this may not be a possibility. Other good interview times would be in the morning, or late afternoon. Use your vacation time here to take the couple of hours off. Just don’t lie about being sick; it will look bad if you’re spotted out and about after complaining of a bad cough.

You don’t need to be Superman to make an interview on the side work. Keep doing the great work you’re already doing in the office, and make sure to fit in time for the potential employer when possible.

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