How far in advance would you start applying for jobs?

[minkajane]

I am planning to move to a new city (90 minutes from here) on March 1st. I'd love to have a job ready to start then. I'm not sure how far in advance I should start applying. I'm really nervous because I graduate as a medical assistant (AAS degree) February 15th, so it'll be hard already because I'll be a new grad, plus I'll be 8 months pregnant when I'll be interviewing. I'm hoping to find somewhere to work until the baby's born, then go back to after 8 weeks of maternity leave.

So if you were looking to have a job you could start on March 1st, when would you start putting in applications? Is it at all feasible to try and get a job right after graduation AND pregnant?

[Courtney-Ostaff]

I'd apply now, especially if you're looking for any type of gov't/VA/etc job.  They can take from 6 months to a year to get going.  Also, I can't imagine anyone is going to hire someone who's going to be there for a month, and then gone for 2. :(

[minkajane]

Originally Posted by Courtney-Ostaff 

 Also, I can't imagine anyone is going to hire someone who's going to be there for a month, and then gone for 2. :(

Yeah, that's the really sucky part. I figure it will be just as bad trying to find a job after that, when they ask why I graduated 3 months ago and haven't been working and I say I've been on maternity leave. Either way it's going to be difficult.

[Courtney-Ostaff]

Don't say you've been on maternity leave. They don't need to know. Just say you were taking a break after school. :)  

[soso-lynn]

Maybe you can work with a temp agency until you give birth and find a permanent job for after.

[VisionaryMom]

Originally Posted by soso-lynn 

Maybe you can work with a temp agency until you give birth and find a permanent job for after.

I think this is your best plan. You generally can get a job through a temp agency within a week or 2, so you don't have to start applying yet. I agree that few employers will be keen on hiring someone for one month and then have them gone for 2 months.

[minkajane]

Originally Posted by soso-lynn 

Maybe you can work with a temp agency until you give birth and find a permanent job for after.

That is a good idea. I never thought about it.

[mirlee]

Another bonus about the temp agency is that you get to see what different work environments are like.  It will defiintely help you adapt to changing and challenging situations once you land a permanent job.  In addition, if you don't feel well on one day or have a doctor's appointment, you just tell the agency you aren't available. I did a stint with a temp agency for a bit after graduate school and count is one of the best things I ever did.

[Courtney-Ostaff]

Temp agency is a great idea. I did that for a year or so at one point, and it was fun!