What is the appropriate timing to tell your supervisor you have an interview for another position? She currently knows I am looking. TIA

18 Comments

1. AnonymousAugust 22,2024 at 6:21PM UTC

   Why on earth would you tell your supervisor that you have an interview for another job? Do you have to take time off for the interview? If so, a simple: I need to use some PTO hours will suffice.

   What's the intended outcome for you to proactively disclose this?

2. Heidi AndersonAugust 22,2024 at 7:22PM UTC

   Its within the same company that Im applying for another position so dont need to take time off. My thoughts in giving my supervisor a heads up so she could make arrangements to move my responsibilities.

3. AnonymousAugust 22,2024 at 8:18PM UTC

   Some companies have policies around internal moves - does yours have any? If you are applying internally, I would have that conversation sooner than later otherwise, they are going to feel a bit betrayed.

4. AnonymousAugust 22,2024 at 9:00PM UTC

   Your original post was missing this detail. To the point of the person below, read your employee handbook and follow the rules for internal transfers.

5. AnonymousAugust 22,2024 at 11:15PM UTC

   How convenient......

6. AnonymousAugust 22,2024 at 10:39PM UTC

   But you haven't been offered a new job. You aren't going anywhere that you know of. Jumping to your resignation is very odd.

7. AnonymousAugust 22,2024 at 8:54PM UTC

   why you gotta tell her the you are interviewing... or even looking. They dont need to or have to know that until you are putting in your two weeks notice.

8. AnonymousAugust 22,2024 at 9:04PM UTC

   You don't. Your job search is private and has nothing to do with your current role or employer. The message you are sending is this "I'm not happy here and I'm interviewing". They, the employer, receives it as "she's not happy here and she's leaving and I need to find her replacement fast". You take the time off, ask ahead, but do not reveal why, it's none of their business, and you shine in that interview! Remember this, the day you start applying is the day you made the decision to leave. When you get the job, send a resignation letter after the new employer clears you of background checks, drug screens, etc. and then you say thank you and good bye.

   Good luck!

9. AnonymousAugust 22,2024 at 10:36PM UTC

   Why set yourself up? You haven't received an offer or even negotiated an offer? What is your motivation to keep your boss apprised of each blow by blow of your job search?

   You save that for your BFF or family for pep talks and cheering you on.

   Don't confuse what is appropriate behavior for your close circle and your boss. They are very different and their roles in your life should be treated differently.

10. AnonymousAugust 23,2024 at 12:25PM UTC

    When you’ve accepted the other offer

11. AnonymousAugust 23,2024 at 2:06PM UTC

    Only inform them after you've accepted the offer (signed the contract and plan to leave).

12. AnonymousAugust 23,2024 at 2:06PM UTC

    When you have a signed contract and a start date in writing. Some people even take time off their during current job in order to start the new job and see how it is, and then give your notice. Protect yourself.

13. AnonymousAugust 23,2024 at 2:23PM UTC

    Your supervisor is not your family. You don't share your activities until you have a professional exit plan.

14. Kathleen SullivanAugust 23,2024 at 2:48PM UTC

    I would only tell your supervisor when and if you want that person to be a reference. Otherwise, I think you have the right to keep that to yourself.

15. AnonymousAugust 23,2024 at 9:44PM UTC

    Why would you say anything? If she already knows you are looking I bet she's searching for your replacement

16. AnonymousAugust 24,2024 at 10:35AM UTC

    Don't say anything, they honestly will not care and are most likely already preparing to fill your role. Wouldn't be surprised if you get let go before you find something else.

17. AnonymousAugust 24,2024 at 10:57AM UTC

    If it’s within the same company she probably knows already. Generally, the interviewing manager would advise of the scheduled interview date and time. It would just be a matter of you confirming as well. Otherwise, if it’s external, don’t say a word.

18. Joan Williams, Senior Talent Acquisition SpecialistAugust 26,2024 at 6:06AM UTC

    Personally, the first time anyone knows I'm looking for a new position is when I turn in my resignation letter.

    Before then, it's none of anyone's business but mine.