Section 13: Searching and Applying to Jobs
A common question is how soon to apply to a job posting.
While each situation is different, there are some common guidelines to follow.
Keep your timeline and preferences in mind when it comes to your decision. Do you want to move into your next role immediately or do you plan to take time off first?
The time it takes from applying to starting a job depends on a number of variables. These include the industry, size of the company, job level, and how quickly the team needs someone to start.
Typically, smaller companies and lower level roles take less time than larger companies and senior level roles. A mom-and-pop coffee shop may only require a single interview while a senior role at a large tech company may require multiple interview rounds.
Resource Spotlight
Are you considering SkillBridge as an option? SkillBridge provides service members the opportunity to gain work experience through training, internships, and apprenticeships during their final 180 days of service. Visit the DOD SkillBridge site to learn more.
A fellowship with Hiring Our Heroes is another option. They partner with some of the nation’s leading employers to provide corporate, military spouse, and skill-based fellowships.
Going back to our challenge of determining the best time to apply, a general window is 1-3 months before you intend to start a new role.
This factors in the application window, time for the recruiter to review resumes, interview scheduling, completing initial and follow-up interviews, the team deciding on top candidates, and offer negotiation.
When going through the interview process, your recruiter can provide clarification around the hiring timeline. Since they work closely with the hiring manager, they have the best insight into next steps and how long it should take.