Notice period: when to mention it, and how
By Bhagirath Sheela, founder of JobCatch ·
In India, notice periods of 30, 60 or 90 days are common, and recruiters ask about them early because they decide when you can join. Whether you write it on your resume depends on where it helps you.
On the resume, or not?
- Mention it if it helps: you can join immediately, you are already serving notice, or your notice is short (30 days or less). One line under your contact details or at the end of your summary is enough: "Notice period: 30 days" or "Serving notice, last working day 15 November".
- Leave it off if it is long. You will be asked anyway, and you can explain it in a conversation, along with any flexibility.
- On job portals, fill the notice-period field accurately; recruiters filter on it.
What the terms mean
- Immediate joiner: you can join within days, usually because you are not employed or have finished your notice.
- Serving notice: you have resigned and know your last working day.
- Notice buyout: your new employer pays, or you pay, your current employer to shorten the notice. Whether it is allowed depends on your contract; check it before you promise an early date.
Answer it honestly
Do not shorten your notice period to get through screening. Your new employer will see your relieving date, and many companies verify employment dates during background checks. Say what your contract says, and what flexibility you have — "90 days, negotiable to 60 with a buyout" is a useful answer.
Questions
Can I join a new company during my notice period?
Not while you are still employed by your current employer under your contract. Finish the notice, get it shortened by agreement, or arrange a buyout, and keep the relieving letter.
Does a long notice period hurt my chances?
It can for roles that need someone quickly. Apply anyway where it fits, say early what your notice is, and mention any way it could be shortened.
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