When you sit down for your next job interview, whether it’s an in-person interview or a virtual one, you’re going to be asked a lot of questions. Most of these questions will have to do with your qualifications, work experience, how you solve problems, etc....
But, as you probably know, some of the questions you’ll be asked are tricks. Tricks designed to see how fast you are on your feet, tricks to see if you’re being honest…
And tricks to see if you’re going to be an employee that’s “loyal” to the company.
Today, we’re going to address how you can answer a trick question you may be asked about when it comes to your job “loyalty”, and we’ll show you the best way to answer it.
The question is: “When can you start?”
Now, there’s a reason why that question is a trick…
But before we show you why it’s a trick question, let’s talk quickly about job “loyalty.”
You have to remember a few things about employers. When they post a job, they’re not only looking for qualified candidates, but they’re also looking for a person who will stick around (unless it’s temp work).
You see, the hiring process for employers is often a difficult one. There are job postings, resume reviews, candidate discussions, candidate selections, candidate interviews and finally, hirings.
The entire process can take weeks. It’s why so many hiring managers are full time employees themselves.
Because of the amount of work put into finding and hiring a candidate, the last thing the employer wants to do is find out you’re not committed to the job; and they now have to start the process all over again.
Simply put, employers want to know you’ll not only perform your job well but are committed to working there for the long-term.
So, with that said…
“When can you start?”
Now, this seems like it would be a no-brainer. You can start immediately, right?
Well, not so fast.
If you currently have a job but are looking to switch employers (the hiring manager probably knows this by reading your resume), the last thing you want to do is say “immediately” or any timeframe fewer than two weeks.
Why?
According to Gary Shapiro, the CEO Consumer Technology Association, if a candidate answers this question with any timeframe less than two weeks, “They don’t get the job, because they’ll treat us the way they treat that former employer” with a low level of commitment, or loyalty.[1]
See, by answering this question with “immediately” or “next week”, you’re giving the impression that you’re not loyal to your responsibilities with your current employer, and therefore may not be loyal to your new employer either.
Hiring managers want to see that you’re committed to finishing out your current job by giving them at least two-weeks’ notice… enough time for your old employer to find a replacement.
So, your best answer to the question “When can you start?” should be at least two weeks out, especially if you’re currently employed.
Here’s what you should say:
Interviewer: When can you start?
You: I can start in two to three weeks. I’ll have to notify my current employer, so they have enough time to fill my position. I’d like this to be as smooth a transition as possible, for everyone. But, if possible, I’d love to have some materials from you today so I can get caught up to speed in my free time.
With this answer, you’re committing to giving your current employer ample time to replace you, you’re showing you are “loyal” and committed to the new opportunity…
And you’re showing you’re ready to start work “immediately.”