Having your job search become public knowledge has always been a risk for job changers. In this economy, that risk looms even larger. The last thing you want, and the worst possible outcome, is for your boss to discover your actions when you’ve been unsuccessful in your job search.

TechRepublic Premium presents some methods you can use to keep that search confidential.

• Featured text from the download:

  6: Develop and rehearse code words and situations

  Despite your precautions, you one day might get a call from a recruiter while you’re in your office.

  The worst thing you can do is to drop your voice and say, “Sorry, I can’t talk now — can I call you back?” Your coworkers will think you are either having an affair or seeking a new job, and neither conclusion helps you.

  Think of a problem situation someone could call you about. If it really is a problem you’re having right now, so much the better.

  For example: Your computer crashes constantly. Your home has a leaking pipe. You hear the sound of metal rubbing on metal when you step on your car brakes. Your child is having problems in school.

  Now, when that call comes, visualize that the caller is actually the computer technician, plumber, mechanic, or teacher. Start talking about the “problem,” then apologize for not being able to talk further and make arrangements to talk later. Do not drop your voice. Speak in a normal tone of voice, even when you make arrangements to talk later. Give a plausible reason if you can — you don’t have the computer manual, or you’re not at your car, or you don’t have your child’s homework assignment.

  Of course, it’s good if you alert the company or recruiter beforehand that you might have to go into “James Bond mode.”

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