When should I begin my job hunt?

15 Comments

1. Rebecca A BrittJanuary 1,2023 at 3:40AM UTC

   I think a lot depends on exactly what your field is and how big of a transition it is to the private sector.

   In my field, I could get a job in a few weeks. When I was laid off with a six week deadline, I got an offer in 3 weeks and finalize the offer a week later.

   I’d start fairly early, looking at casually doing informational interviews in the private sector—getting a network, discovering what gaps you might have and what skills are in high demand.

   Start knowing people (if you don’t already), and take some classes on LinkedIn or an only program.

   then, 6-8 weeks before you’re done, really start looking.

   also, consider giving yourself a short break. Is it possible to plan to have a few weeks off before immediately jumping into a new role.

   Change, even positive change, can be stressful and having a time to reset before starting a new job can be hugely beneficial to your success in the new role.

2. AnonymousJanuary 1,2023 at 6:21PM UTC

   Thank you. I am being careful because I am in a position to influence the selection of vendors, so I want to make sure my conversations about the future are ethical.

3. AnonymousJanuary 2,2023 at 3:26PM UTC

   I got laid off at age 50 and it took me 5 months to get a new job. Then I lost that job at age 62 and it took me almost a year. Finding a new job gets harder and harder as you get older.

4. Rebecca A BrittJanuary 2,2023 at 8:33PM UTC

   I was 55 with my last layoff and granted, decided to consult because it was the 3rd layoff in 4 years.

   I do agree that over 50 is hard.

   i am very selective with my resume that it shows “20+ years” making me look under 50.

   additionally, my field, depending on my focus, (creative vs corporate) is pretty okay with looking “different” so a bit of pink/purple in my hair helps.

   I will say my friend over 60 has struggled A LOT and had to take a different job and I think it might be age-related, even though I don’t think she looks 60 in the slightest

5. AnonymousJanuary 1,2023 at 12:42PM UTC

   ASAP since it will take months to get abd start a new job. Allow yourself plenty on runway to make the right choice.

6. AnonymousJanuary 1,2023 at 4:15PM UTC

   Hiring process takes long time. you should start now.

7. Crystal HowellJanuary 1,2023 at 4:34PM UTC

   You should start now, to get hired in March. There are mounds of resumes out there, folks starting over, quitting the job you may want, moving upward, and a lot of positions. Start now, and Good Luck!

8. AnonymousJanuary 1,2023 at 6:14PM UTC

   OP here. Sorry I wasn’t clearer. I’m not eligible to retire until July, so I can’t accept a position until then. I’m concerned I’ll apply and then have to decline if I get offered a position before then.

9. AnonymousJanuary 2,2023 at 3:24PM UTC

   You work in the public sector? I worked in a public sector position where they downsized by offering cash buy-outs for retirees (and I believe anyone, too, eventually). Your current pension plan will probably not be reduced due to contracts, and they may also try to buy out people who have the best pension plans.

   So... whether you leave should be a decision of the heart rather than strictly financial. Finding a job that pays well when you're in your 60s is easier said than done.

10. AnonymousJanuary 2,2023 at 4:33PM UTC

    Just want to point out that the combination of years worked and age could easily put OP in her 50s rather than 60s.

11. Tiana MumfordJanuary 3,2023 at 1:57PM UTC

    Good day

    I would go with wisdom and your heart felt decision if you did the math . Blessings

12. AnonymousJanuary 7,2023 at 12:08AM UTC

    I just did that what you describe. My last day was end of December. I only started looking seriously for another job in early December. I had an interview the day before I turned in the company keys, ID and equipment. I wasn't ready for the panic that overcame me on my last day because I had not gotten another job first. Like you said the economic forcast put me in a tailspin. The Grace of God I got a job offer after I left the premises. Knowing what I know now - I wouldn't have jump ship without another job offer first despite the company's 'notice' requirement ...

13. AnonymousJanuary 8,2023 at 12:04AM UTC

    How long had you worked there? How long did it take you to decide to leave? I’m giving myself whiplash going back and forth! I’m usually pretty decisive so this is weird for me.

14. AnonymousJanuary 8,2023 at 4:10PM UTC

    I was there long enough to do the math as you mention to decide that the package I'd get versus waiting would have a minimal financial benefit and more importantly to me - might limit my opportunity to go elsewhere as ageism in my field is real...

15. Sabrina CortesJanuary 12,2023 at 3:27AM UTC

    I agree with some of the other responses. I'd start ASAP for a few reasons.

    ~~ You want to apply to jobs/companies you want to work for. Take time to research their mission statement, values, and other corporate philosophies. You won't know more about the company until your interview, but based on the job post, can you picture yourself doing that job?

    ~~ There are more and more people looking for jobs, and Amazon announced they are terminating approximately 18,000 jobs in the coming months. You can't start looking too soon.

    ~~ The hiring process takes time and consistency on your part. There will be many times when you need to follow up with Recruiters/Hiring Managers, and that can be draining. So, give yourself permission to pause to regroup and return to your job search.

    I hope these tips are helpful!

    I'm a professional Resume Writer, so please feel free to reach out with any questions, ok?

    Best wishes to you!