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Question: When do I start applying?
I have been preparing for months to transition into a different industry and a better position. I have made so many connections and utilized networking to locate different opportunities. I made a personal decision in May, I would not make any decisions until October. I felt this would give me plenty of time to decide on where to go. Plus understand the industry better.
Here it is October and I find myself at a crossroads. In August there was some family drama and now my granddaughter is living with me until May. I feel I need to stay local until the end of her school year. In the mean time I figure I will explore some additional education to strengthen my skills.
As I job search, there are so many opportunities I feel like I am passing up, too afraid to apply. In addition, in order for my career to grow, I have to move out of state. There is no opportunity for me locally. When do I start applying for jobs? I know many companies take months to go through the hiring process, but I don't want to apply for my dream job now to get hired at the new year and then turn it down because I am not available till June. When I was school, they promoted applying in the fall even though you wouldn't be available till May, but I feel uneasy about the process now that I'm not a student anymore. How do I address this concern? When is the best time to re-start my job search process?
Patti Working in tech in Colorado
465
10/08/19 at 3:08PM UTC
Job hunting takes longer than we usually plan on, so I would start earlier. Keep up the connections and networking while you look.
Lisa Lewis MillerAuthor, podcaster, coach @ GetCareerClarity.com
527
10/03/19 at 8:16PM UTC
Gotcha -- sounds like you're ready for a new challenge! If you want to stay in Idaho, looking at possible remote opportunities sounds like a great way to expand your reach. There's also tons of movement in the renewable energy market across the country, so there might be possibilities if you're willing to drive a little bit. However, if you're craving a move and a fresh start, what I would do is create the list of the top organizations you want to go work for, and start your *networking* now. Get on their radar and make loads of connections in states/cities you're excited about, so that when you're closer to ready to move, you can start applying. (I'd start applying in February, based on hiring cycles. You're right that most employers won't want you applying in the fall for a start date in the spring.) Hope that helps!
Lisa Lewis MillerAuthor, podcaster, coach @ GetCareerClarity.com
527
10/01/19 at 9:33PM UTC
Hi Brandy - I can hear your sense of tension in trying to move forward! I'm curious about the concern that there's no room to grow/move within your state or market. What kind of industry are you trying to switch into, and where do you currently live? I totally agree with the other posts that remote work might be a good option, but I'd also wonder if there are more opportunities locally that could fit than it might appear. Especially in the midst of some big family stuff, uprooting yourself and your granddaughter in pursuit of work opportunities feels like it's adding even more transition and stress on your plate.
Brandy Werre
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10/01/19 at 10:37PM UTC
I am currently in Idaho and working in the semiconductor industry. I love the company but the only opportunities to grow within this company are in Arizona. (Sorry, I don't want to move to Arizona) I went back to school to be involved in the renewable industry. My town recently squashed the opportunity to bring in a new company I was really excited about. This town just doesn't want to grow in the technical industry. It's all medical and restaurants. The only reason I have stayed as long as I have is because of my current job which I started as an intern. I will have to move outside of my comfort zone to grow professionally and I knew this when I went back to school. All of my children are grown and ready for their own lives. My granddaughter living with me is a welcomed temporary situation.
Brandy Werre
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10/01/19 at 8:31PM UTC
Thank you for your support and advice. I will continue the search and start applying. I had not considered working remotely as an option, but I will check into it.
DaniCMarketing Professional who loves Arts/Psychology
83
10/01/19 at 8:23PM UTC
I agree with the ladies here - the best time to act is NOW and there is no point in delaying any further. You never know when will you be accepted for a job but once they do get accepted you'll see what are the circumstances at that exact moment and you'll know what to do next. Also, Focused695523 has a great point here - do ask for an opportunity to work remotely. The new technologies do help with overcoming the problem of being physically present in the office so embrace all of what is offered. :) Good luck! :)
p.s. if you think you can benefit from a discussion focused on career building and overcoming career challenges i strongly suggest this new group: https://fairygodboss.com/groups/BkbXLP0Ur/ :)
MichelleSProven Technology Leader
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10/01/19 at 7:56PM UTC
Getting a job earlier than you need one is a good problem to have. Cross that bridge when you get there. Until you have that problem - apply, apply, apply
When you're not looking for a job - there seem to be a lot of options out there! But once you start looking - I swear, they all dry up! So - get yourself out there and see what kind of response you're getting. Then make decisions as to how to proceed.
Anonymous
10/01/19 at 7:56PM UTC
You're right - the hiring process is agonizing, and there are more candidates than ever for fewer positions. I would suggest moving ahead NOW despite your current setbacks. Have you considered this: if you launched your job search, could you ask to work remotely until you could relocate? Some companies will, some won't. Don't be afraid - all you can do is ask.
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