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WHEN CAN YOU START?


In this lesson, we will focus on a crucial part of job interviews: discussing start dates. The question "When can you start?" is often asked by employers to understand when a potential employee can begin their duties. Knowing how to answer this question effectively can help you make a good impression and align your start date with the company’s needs.

This lesson will cover relevant grammar, vocabulary, useful expressions, example sentences, questions and answers, conversation, and a reading passage to help you navigate this topic confidently.
1. GRAMMAR:
1.1 Future Tense for Planning and Promises:
- "I will start on the 1st of October."
- "I will be available to start in two weeks."

1.2 Present Simple for Stating Facts and Schedules:
- "I currently work at a marketing firm."
- "My current job requires a one-month notice period."

1.3 Present Continuous for Arrangements:
- "I am finishing a project and can start next Monday."
- "I am planning to leave my current job at the end of the month."

1.4 Modal Verbs for Offering Flexibility and Making Suggestions:
- "I can start immediately if necessary."
- "I could start earlier, but I need to check with my current employer."
2. VOCABULARY:
Notice period: The amount of time an employee must give their current employer before leaving a job.
Immediate availability: Being able to start work right away.
Transition period: The time taken to move from one job to another.
Onboarding: The process of integrating a new employee into a company.
Resignation: The act of leaving a job.
Commitment: A promise or agreement to start working at a certain time.
3. USEFUL EXPRESSIONS:
- "I am available to start on [specific date]."
- "My current job requires a [time period] notice."
- "I can start as soon as possible."
- "Would starting on [specific date] work for you?"
- "I need to give my current employer [time period] notice."
- "I am flexible and can adjust my start date if necessary."
- "I am finishing up my responsibilities and can start [date]."
4. SENTENCES:
- "I am available to start on the 1st of September."
- "I can begin work immediately as I have already completed my notice period."
- "My current role requires me to give a one-month notice before I leave."
- "Would starting next Monday work for you?"
- "I am flexible and can start earlier if that suits the company’s needs."
5. QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS:
Q: When can you start?
A: I can start immediately, as I am not currently employed.

Q: Are you able to start next week?
A: Yes, I am able to start next week. I just need to finalize a few details at my current job.

Q: Do you need to give notice to your current employer?
A: Yes, I need to give a two-week notice, so I can start after that.

Q: What is your availability to start?
A: I am available to start on the 15th of this month, as I need to complete a project at my current job.

Q: Can you start earlier if needed?
A: I will try to arrange an earlier start date, but I would need to discuss it with my current employer first.
6. CONVERSATION:
Interviewer: "We’re very interested in hiring you for the position. When can you start?"
Candidate: "Thank you! I am excited about this opportunity. I can start in two weeks. I need to give my current employer a two-week notice."
Interviewer: "That makes sense. Would there be any possibility of starting sooner?"
Candidate: "I could try to negotiate an earlier start date, but I want to ensure a smooth transition for my current employer. I can confirm with you in a few days."
Interviewer: "We appreciate your professionalism. Two weeks should work for us, but please let us know if you can start sooner."
Candidate: "Absolutely, I will keep you updated. I am looking forward to joining your team."
7. READING:
7.1 "How to Answer: When Can You Start?"
In job interviews, candidates often face the question, "When can you start?" This seemingly simple question can have a significant impact on the hiring process. It helps employers plan and manage their workflow and sets expectations for the new hire’s start date.

7.2 Understanding Notice Periods
Before answering, it’s important to understand your current employment situation. Many jobs require a notice period, typically ranging from two weeks to one month. This is the time you need to give your current employer before leaving. Knowing your notice period allows you to give a clear and accurate answer about your availability.

7.3 Being Honest and Realistic
When asked about your start date, be honest and realistic. If you say you can start immediately but still need to finish tasks at your current job, it can lead to problems. It’s better to be upfront about any commitments you need to fulfill. Employers appreciate honesty and clear communication.

7.4 Flexibility and Negotiation
While it’s important to be honest, showing flexibility can be a positive trait. If you can adjust your schedule to start earlier, it may benefit both you and the employer. If your current employer is flexible, you might be able to negotiate an earlier start date. Always express your willingness to accommodate the company’s needs if possible.

7.5 Tips for Answering the Question
- Prepare in Advance: Before the interview, think about your current commitments and when you can realistically start a new job.

Be Specific: Give a specific date if possible. This shows that you have thought about the transition and are ready to make a commitment.

Express Willingness to Discuss: If you need to negotiate, express your willingness to discuss the start date. This shows that you are cooperative and open to finding a solution that works for both parties.

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