Communicating your availability in a cover letter is an important detail in a job application. It signals to a potential employer that you are organized, considerate of their timeline, and prepared to move forward. Including this information streamlines the process for the hiring manager and presents you as a proactive candidate.
When to Mention Your Availability
Deciding whether to include your availability depends on the job posting. If a job description explicitly requests a potential start date or your availability, providing this information is necessary. Failing to do so can make it seem like you did not read the instructions carefully, potentially leading to your application being overlooked.
In cases where the job advertisement does not ask for this detail, mentioning your availability can be a strategic choice. It is useful for roles that a company is looking to fill urgently. Stating that you are available immediately or after a standard two-week notice period can make your application more attractive.
Where to Place Availability in Your Cover Letter
The most appropriate location for information about your availability is in the closing paragraph of your cover letter. This placement is strategic, as it follows the main body of the letter where you have detailed your skills and interest in the role.
Placing your availability just before your sign-off serves as a practical, final piece of information. It acts as a natural component of your call to action. For instance, it pairs well with a sentence expressing your eagerness to discuss your qualifications in an interview.
How to Phrase Your Availability
Clarity and professionalism are important when wording your availability. For interview scheduling, a polite and flexible statement is effective. You might write, “I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience,” which shows respect for the hiring manager’s schedule and communicates your eagerness.
If you are currently employed, it is standard to mention your notice period. A sentence like, “I am available to start after completing a two-week notice period with my current employer,” is direct and professional. For those who can start right away, a clear statement such as, “I am available for an immediate start,” is effective. If you have a precise future start date, state it clearly: “I will be available to begin work on [Date].”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
A frequent error is being overly rigid with your availability for an interview. Stating that you can only meet on a specific day at a particular time can come across as demanding. It is better to show flexibility, indicating a willingness to work with the employer’s schedule.
Another mistake is oversharing personal details as the reason for your availability. There is no need to mention a planned vacation, family commitments, or other personal appointments. Keep your reasoning private and your statement professional.
Avoid being too vague with your timeline. Phrases like “I’m available sometime soon” are unhelpful and create uncertainty for the employer. Provide a specific timeframe, such as a start date or notice period, to give the hiring manager a clear picture.