My boss found out I'm looking for another job. While she hasn't broached the subject yet, my job search is the elephant in the room. How do I handle this tense situation?

There's an old saying you may be wise to follow: "Nobody ever got in trouble for keeping his mouth shut." It's sound advice, because it's not necessary to say anything about your job search unless your boss brings it up first.

But if she does, you should have an explanation for why you are looking for employment that will enlighten but not alienate her. Depending on what she asks, be prepared to talk honestly but objectively about the things you feel most contributed to your dissatisfaction with your current job. To balance that, be equally prepared to talk about the things that made you happy in your job, as well. Your boss may also ask you what it would take to keep you there, so come with a list of ideas and suggestions that, if implemented, could entice you into staying rather than fleeing.

Finally, at least one of your superiors now knows you're seeking new employment, so it's important to conduct yourself in a manner above reproach while you're looking - or you could gain an unflattering reputation that might follow you to your next job. Don't look for work on company time or use company resources, and don't allow the quality or quantity of your current work to suffer. That way, when your job situation changes, your professional reputation won't.