"I need a new job. But I’m under contract. If I start applying now, won’t employers expect me to start immediately? Should I just wait until summer?"
You’re ready to move on. You don’t want to break your contract, but you also can’t afford to sit around and hope the right opportunity magically appears in June.
So, what’s the smartest way to time your job search?
Why This Matters to You
"If I wait until summer, will I miss the best jobs? But if I apply now, will hiring managers think I’m wasting their time?"
Hiring happens year-round. If you wait too long, you’ll be competing for leftovers. If you apply too soon without a plan, you risk frustrating employers who need someone immediately.
You don’t have to choose between loyalty and opportunity—you just need the right strategy.
Common Solutions and Why They Might Not Work
🚫 Waiting Until Summer to Apply
"I’ll just wait until my contract is almost up."
- Bad move. The best roles start hiring months in advance. By June, many positions are already filled.
🚫 Applying Now and Figuring It Out Later
"I’ll apply and deal with it if I get an offer."
- Some employers want someone immediately. If you don’t have a clear transition plan, you’ll end up in uncomfortable conversations.
🚫 Trying to Negotiate an Early Exit
"Maybe my school will let me leave early?"
- Possible, but risky. Breaking a contract without a solid plan can damage relationships and future references.
A Better Plan for You
Steal my strategic, proactive approach.
💡 Step 1: Start researching now.
- Pinpoint the jobs that fit your skills.
- Learn hiring trends so you can time your applications correctly.
- For example, PD Specialist hires spike in mid-spring whereas Instructional Designers roles are posted more regularly.
💡 Step 2: Network before applying.
- Find people who have already made this transition.
- Connect with the people who have the professional life you want—many jobs aren’t even posted online. They could lead you to them.
💡 Step 3: Apply in early spring.
- Many companies hire months in advance.
- If a job is the right fit, they may be willing to wait for you.
💡 Step 4: Be transparent about your timeline.
- Employers value honesty. Try this:
“I’m committed to finishing my contract, but I’m very excited about this opportunity. I’d love to explore ways to make the timing work.”
💡 Step 5: Stay flexible.
- If your dream job needs someone ASAP, be ready to decide whether to push your timeline.
Summary
- Waiting too long = fewer job options.
- Applying too early without a plan = awkward conversations.
- Smartest move? Start researching, networking, and applying in early spring.
- Be upfront about your availability so expectations are clear.
Want to Dive Deeper?
My Career Change Accelerator will show you exactly how to market yourself, land interviews, and secure a job offer—all while finishing out your contract.
Your Next Steps
✔ Start researching career paths that interest you.
✔ Reach out to people in your target industry.
✔ Plan to apply in early spring.
✔ Be ready to discuss your transition timeline.
Start now. Stay in control. Make your move on your terms.
See you next week.
Steph Yesil
Find me on LinkedIn, Get My Career Change Kit, or Book a 1:1 Call
