India's notice period conventions (30-90 days, sometimes longer) create unique challenges for job seekers. The typical 60-90 day notice period at major IT companies means you need to plan your job search timeline carefully to avoid gaps or rushed decisions.
Ideal timeline: Start your job search while still employed, 2-3 months before you plan to resign. This gives you time to: prepare your resume and online profiles, apply and go through interview processes (which can take 2-6 weeks at major companies), receive and evaluate offers, and then resign with an offer in hand. The worst approach is resigning first and then searching — you lose negotiating power and add financial pressure.
Managing interviews during notice period: Most Indian companies understand that candidates have jobs and will accommodate. Request interviews early morning (before 10 AM), late afternoon (after 4 PM), or during lunch breaks for phone/video screens. For full-day onsite assessments, use your leave balance. Be honest with the interviewing company about your notice period — most companies plan for 30-60 day waits.
Notice period negotiation: If you have a confirmed offer, negotiate with your current employer to reduce the notice period. Options include: notice period buyout (company pays for the remaining period), mutual early release (if your team situation allows), and using accrued leave to effectively shorten the notice. Most Indian companies will negotiate if you handle it professionally. From the new employer's side, many companies in India are now willing to wait 60-90 days for the right candidate — some even offer a joining bonus to compensate for the wait.