By Jeff Altman, Big Game Hunter
Sarah sat across from another “perfect” person on her team. His resume is impeccable, his technical skills are top-notch, and the culture fit seems seamless. She then asked the standard closing line: “So, if we move forward, how soon can you start?”
The candidate shrugged and said easily, “Honestly? I’m flexible. As long as you need me!”
In his impression, he is an easy-going and tolerant person. A red flag went up in Sarah’s mind. To a recruiting manager, “I’m flexible” doesn’t sound like helpfulness; instead, “I’m flexible.” sounds like indecisive. This showed that he had not thought through his transition, had not planned for his current responsibilities, and lacked the professional boundaries she needed for her lead role.
This is not a matter of time, but a maturity test
When a recruiter asks about your availability, they’re not just looking for coordinates on the calendar. They are evaluating your Reliability, planning and professional maturity. How you handle exit is the clearest indication of how you will ultimately handle entry. If you’re willing to drop everything “as soon as possible” without looking back at your current team, you’re signaling that you’re likely to do the same with your new employer. Conversely, being too vague can make you look like a passenger in your career rather than the driver.
To help you navigate this high-stakes moment, here’s how to tailor your answer to your specific situation.
Professional Scripts: What to Say
The goal is always to send a signal control. Use these scripts to show that you are thoughtful about how you organize your life and work.
1. If you are currently employed
You want to show loyalty to your current team while showing excitement for your new team.
script: “I want to give proper notice, so my earliest start date is [DATE]. I was happy to complete all the onboarding steps before day one. “
2. If you are currently unemployed or laid off
Avoid sounding desperate. You want to sound prepared and organized.
script: “The earliest I can start [DATE]. If you would like me to accommodate your onboarding schedule, I can be flexible. “
3. If you have a pre-planned trip
Being honest upfront can save you from a huge headache during your first week on the job. This shows you respect their time.
script: “My earliest start date is [DATE]. I do have pre-planned breaks [DATES]I’d love to plan around it. “
4. If you are completing a major project
This is the ultimate in “reliability” flexibility. It shows that you don’t leave people in trouble.
script: “I’m completing the delivery [DATE]so that I can start [NEXT DATE] Undivided attention. “
5. If you are moving
Show them that you’ve done the math as you move.
script: “I can start remotely [DATE] and in [DATE] Once the move is complete. “
Why “as soon as possible” is a hidden red flag
Many candidates believe “as soon as possible” reflects enthusiasm. In fact, it is usually read as Poor and desperate, not ready. A high-value professional often has some unfinished business to take care of – a project needs handoff, a desk needs clearing, or even just a week to fine-tune their thinking so they can get started right away. By giving a specific date, you can prove that you are moving towards A new opportunity, not just running leave From the void.
Golden Rule: One Date, One Choice
The most effective way to demonstrate maturity is to provide A clear date and a reasonable choice. For example: “I could start on Monday the 12th or if that’s better for squad induction then the 19th would suit me too.”
This approach tells recruiting managers that you’re organized enough to remember “day one,” but collaborative enough to care about their internal processes.
Ⓒ Big Game Hunters, Asheville, NC 2026
Break the rules and lead your life
About Big Game Hunter Jeff Altman
People hire “Big Game Hunter” Jeff Altman to provide no-nonsense career advice around the world because he makes so many things in people’s careers easier. These matters may involve job hunting, Recruit more effectively, manage and lead better, career transition, and advice on solving workplace problems.
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