Many of the people you may want to hire are currently employed, and their contracts usually include a notice period.

Why it matters for planning

The time between an accepted offer and the start date depends on that notice period. If you need someone quickly, discuss timing early.

Talk about it early

Ask candidates about their notice period during the first conversations, and be clear about when you need the person to start.

Keep in touch

The weeks between offer and joining are when candidates are most likely to receive other offers. Stay in touch, welcome them to the team and share the plan for their first days.

Negotiating the start date

Some notice periods can be shortened by agreement and some cannot. Candidates know their own situation best, so ask what is realistic and avoid pressing them to do something that could damage their relationship with their current employer.

Use the waiting time well

Between offer and start, there is a chance to prepare the new person: share reading material, introduce them to the team informally and send practical details. It builds enthusiasm and reduces first-day surprises.

Plan for gaps

If you need the work covered in the meantime, think about how the team will manage. A realistic plan reduces pressure on everyone and avoids rushing a decision to fill the seat sooner.

Notice periods vary

Notice periods differ between employers and contracts. Some are short and some run to several months, particularly for senior roles. Never assume, and ask each candidate what their contract says.

Early release is not guaranteed

Some employers allow a shorter notice period by agreement, and some do not. Candidates should discuss this with their own employer before making promises, and hiring managers should avoid putting pressure on someone to break an agreement.

Keeping the candidate engaged

  • Send a warm welcome message after the offer is accepted
  • Share a short plan for the first week
  • Invite them to meet the team informally before they start, if their employer allows
  • Stay in touch every couple of weeks