I am applying for jobs out of state to be close to my family. My direct supervisor knows my situation, but the "big boss" does not. It hasn't been a problem until recently when I've had to miss a lot of work to travel for interviews. It's gotten so ridiculous that if this next one doesn't work out, I'm putting on the breaks for a while.
The question is should I tell the truth? My boss thinks I should and that it won't be a problem because a. I am not going to a competitor b. I'm leaving for reasons beyond the company's control c. they never fire anyone - ever. Someone literally gave herself a raise without permission and still didn't get fired. So I think it is highly unlikely that he would let me go, but he would have every right to do so if he wanted to.
So tomorrow when I have to tell him that I am once again missing work on Friday, should I tell the truth?
Re: Interviewing - Do I tell my boss?
Based on the facts you've explained, I think it would be a good idea to tell him. You've been told my your immediate boss it would be ok, and you have a very good reason to be interviewing, to be closer to family. Considering everything you've said, I don't see a problem with it.
I'd approach him if he has an office, ask if you can speak to him, close the door and be honest. Tell him you feel really badly that you've missed work, but due to XYZ situations in your home town, you have been interviewing with the times you've missed work. You have felt terrible about this, and didn't want to feel dishonest any longer. I'd also explain that so far things are not looking good, and you may have to put the brakes on the job search for a while.
I moved from Michigan to Massachusetts over 30 years ago, and after being there 6 years, wanted to move back. All my coworkers and bosses knew I was moving home, and had no problems. The big boss even gave me some referals for people he knew that might be hiring, and I was actually hired by one of them! Most companies appreciate honesty, and it sounds like yours is slow to fire.
Good luck in your job search!
Since this is a "moving" situation it is ok to be honest. Unless of course you are moving less than an hour lol. But if it is a substaiantial move then it is ok to be upfront and honest. You don't have to give excuses or a ton of details, that is usually where people make the mistakes, don't get too personal just say "after some thought, I have decided that is it best for me personally to move back to XYZ area, I am planning to relocate soon and have been steadily looking for employment back home"
then mention that you don't have a timeline for moving and that you may put the move on hold if something does pan out soon and start looking again in 6 months.
You never know, my freind just moved from MA to LA and her employer found out she was moving, loved her enoguh that they let her keep her job, working from home, until she found someone else.
Maybe this is an option for you as well.