This post originally appeared onThe Muse.
Maybe your co-worker accidentally let the cat out of the bag.
(It happens.)
Maybe your interviewer happens to be your boss brother.
(Its a small world.)
Maybe you left your resume in the office printer.
In any case, your boss has gotten wind that your last few doctors appointments have actually been interviews.
In fact, I am one of them.
Heres my advice when youre caught red-handed.
Be Honest
Repeat after me: Do not lie.
I wouldneverconsider leaving the company!
Plus, the truth is youareconsidering leaving the company, and you probably willsoon.
And you probably stillwant your boss to be a reference.
That said, I dont advocate sharing the whole truth, either.
Not only to cover your ass, but to open up a conversation.
Here are a few options:
…Because Im Moving (or Changing Careers).
The first time I had this conversation with my boss, this was my scenario.
And you know what?
She was happy for meand she gave me a job lead and an offer to serve as a reference.
Its the Its not you, its me line for your careerexcept that it often works.
…Because Im Worried about My Job Security.
Ive used this line, toobecause it was (mostly) true.
Hence, youre putting your feelers out there.
Either way, youre covering your bases.
…Because I Want to Advance My Career.
A friend of mine used this line once, and it actuallyearned her a promotion.
(Funny how they found that money somewhere.)
…Because I Had an Interesting Opportunity Come up.
And if it turns out you get the job?
As you put in your two weeks notice, just say it was an offer you couldnt refuse.
More importantly, prove it.
Come in early or stay late.
check that your work is primo quality.
Now, I do realize that this approach wont work for everyone.
In either case, being open and honest could definitely backfire and make your 9-to-5 pretty miserable.
But then againmaybe thats just the push you gotta really get out of there.
Image byHo Yeo Hui(Shutterstock).
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