When do I start looking for a job?

Hello,

I am a programmer with approximately 3 1/2 years of experience. I am coming up on the end of my military (Air Force) term of service. My official "get out" date is March 20 (mid Feb if I use my leave) and I was wondering when I should start submitting resumes to potential employers. I have already done alot of job searches on the internet, and through friends and colleagues. I just worry that I might get an offer to start a new job soon, and I'd have to turn it down because I still have 6 months. Any help in this matter would be much appreciated.

Thanks
Gorath

Gorath,

Just put the date you're available on your application forms/CV/resume. It's never too soon to start looking, if they want you they'll wait(or at the very least keep you on record), job interview experience is always useful and by looking at several jobs you give yourself a chance of being able to choose the one you like best rather than the first one that is offered.

N e i l

I agree with Neil. You should never STOP looking for a job. To be in control of your own career, you should always have a list of target companies. I've found that a continuous, even-keeled job search (2-3 hours/month should suffice) is much more fruitful than an on-again, off-again approach.

And another opinion to consider... Don't look for the JOB - look for the COMPANY. Really search for a company that does stuff that excites you. You'll be spending a lot of time there ;)

HTH,

Dave Smith

Gorath,
We are a contract agency in the Boston area. If you are planning on working on the East Coast, it might be a good idea to send me your resume. We will keep it in file and will get back in contact with you in a few months.
Sincerely,

Mathilde Halfen
Technical recruiter
Summit Systems Consulting
18 Tremont Street, Suite 702
Boston, MA 02108
617-589-0950 (Voice)
617-589-0940 (Fax)
[email protected]
http://www.summit-systems.com