How to apply to a rival company and not get fired?

Question

I am interested in leaving the company I've been working at for two years. I love the industry and what I do, but I dislike my company. I am interested in applying to careers at rival and partner companies within the online retail industry, but it is a small crowd... most people know one another and a lot of people talk. How do I apply to another company without my current company finding out and firing me? Your tips are appreciated!

Answer 1

If the community is small, then you must already have contacts at your target employer.

Speak to your contacts (not from work) and see if they have any openings AND if they would have an interest in employing you.

Let your contact (assuming that it is someone you trust, and why would they be a contact at a rival or partner company if you didn't trust them?) do the heavy lifting for you. For example, they could go to the manager of the area at their company that has the management and hiring responsibility for what you you currently do, and say that they know someone with great qualifications at XYZ company who is looking to make a move - would you be interested?

Then take it from there - don't provide a resume OR your name UNTIL you KNOW there is a mutual interest.

Good luck!

Answer 2

If you work in an at-will employment state, they can let you go completely without reason. They can and will employ this right if they find out. The word is flack, not slack. You're still bound to any and all confidentiality agreements you signed w/ the current employer. If your new employer thinks you're going to violate the agreement, they'd better think again. Do not bring any customer lists, proprietary information or any confidential knowledge w/ you, it's prosecutable by law.

Answer 3

Mail a resume without identifying your current employer, just your experience in the "online retail industry". Use your answering machine, or cell phone for initial contact from prospective employer and try to arrange an interview over lunch.

If you have signed a "non-compete" document with your current employer, be aware of the terms and restrictions. You don't want your new employer to get sued.