When Can You Start?

As the crème de la crème of all aspiring employees, you started preparing for job interviews the moment you thought of applying for work. You practiced answering all the possible tricky questions you could think of: “Tell us about yourself.” “What’s your greatest weakness?” “Where do you see yourself in ten years?”

During the actual interview, you ace all these questions. Alas, just when you think you have the position in the bag, the hiring manager asks: “So… When can you start?” To this, you immediately answer: “Tomorrow!” Moments later, your face drops as you realize that your answer was not as impressive as you thought it was.

Indeed, job interviews can be challenging to fully prepare for. Sometimes, seemingly no-brainer questions turn out to be the most deceiving ones to answer straightly. Case in point: The question “When can you start?” Have no worries! The following list will guide you on how to properly answer this question professionally.

1. Don’t assume that the job is yours

Many candidates make the mistake to assume that the question “When can you start?” means that they’re hired. Usually, this is not the case. Several employers ask this as a general question because they want to know two things: One is your schedule and availability; two is your attitude towards time. Another problem that may rise when you assume that the job is yours is that you will inevitably end up disappointed. Keep your expectations at bay and wait for the hiring manager to explicitly offer you the position before you celebrate your feat.

2. Think about your answer in advance

Are you actually ready to work immediately? Do you need to give prior notice to your current employer? Do you have any binding contracts? Think about your answer seriously before you step into the job interview to avoid giving the wrong answer out of eagerness.

For example, you may think that you can start immediately after you settle everything in your current job. However, you might realize as you think through your answer thoroughly that you need a short break from work before delving into a new job. Reflect on what your company and yourself need. So that you are not taken aback, practice explaining your answer before you go into a job interview.

3. Ask the employer for their preferred date

A good cue for candidates who have no idea how to answer this question is for them to ask the hiring manager what their preferred date is. “When do you need me to start?” is a fine way to phrase this. Asking this shows the hiring manager that you are flexible and willing to negotiate. Remember that you want to come off as someone who cares for the company. Even when the hiring manager asks for your preference, give an answer that shows that you want to consider the best schedule for the company.

If the hiring manager suggests a date that does not work for you, then be honest about it. Give them a brief but logical explanation as to why it would be impossible for you to shift things around to make yourself available at their preferred date. Then, suggest a time range closest to their preferred date wherein you will be available.

4. Avoid giving specific dates

Unless the hiring manager lets you know that they want to offer you the job, take the question “When can you start?” lightheartedly. There is no need to go over your calendar and see what date you can actually start. This question does not necessarily mean that the hiring manager wants to know your specific date of availability. In fact, this is more of a question that expects an answer in the form of a time range. In other words, the hiring manager wants to know if you can start immediately, or if you will need more time.

5. Be honest

If you are unemployed, then maybe you can start immediately. However, refrain from reminding the hiring manager that you are unemployed. You don’t want to come off as desperate. Instead, you can respond with an answer as simple as: “I can start as soon as you are ready to have me.”

On the other hand, avoid saying that you are willing to work immediately if you do not mean it. If you have a current job, let the hiring manager know about your professional commitments. Have you already given your employer the standard two weeks notice or have you yet to submit it? Be honest about your employment status. This will show the hiring manager your work ethic. Loyalty to your company and respect for your bosses are notable virtues every employer wants to see in their employees.

On some instances that the company requires you to relocate, be truthful in how long you think you will need to get settled in your new home. To be safe, you can ask the hiring manager what their ideal timeline is for employees that require relocation.

6. Don’t delve into your personal life

Sometimes, it gets tempting to defend your answers to the hiring manager. But most of the time, hiring managers are not interested in the personal escapades of candidates. Unless you sense that the company holds strong appreciation for family values, the hiring manager does not need to know about your mother’s 50th birthday. Although you are very excited about your best friend’s wedding, chances are, the hiring manager will not be. Make your answers as short and sweet as they can be. Except if they ask, leave the details out of the conversation.

Do not fret too much about the question “When can you start?” As long as you remain honest throughout the interview and show the company that you are eager to work with them, then they will most likely be satisfied with your answer. Just make sure to follow these six tips and you will effortlessly end your job interview in a good light. Good luck!