5 Mistakes to Avoid During Your Notice Period

Serving your notice period can feel like a tricky balancing act. You’re wrapping up your current role while also looking ahead to new opportunities. How you handle this transition can greatly impact your job search success and career growth.

To help you navigate this critical time, here are 5 mistakes to avoid during your notice period and how to turn them into opportunities instead.

1. Going Silent to Recruiters

It’s tempting to take a break from job searching while you finish your notice period, but silence can cost you. Recruiters want candidates who are engaged and responsive. If you disappear or delay communication, they may move on to other prospects.

Tip: Keep recruiters updated on your status and availability. Even if you can’t start immediately, showing you’re proactive keeps you on their radar.

2. Neglecting Your Profile

Your resume, LinkedIn, and PaperHire availability should never go stale — especially during your notice period. Outdated or incomplete profiles make it harder for recruiters to see your value.

3. Waiting Too Long to Mark Yourself Available

Many candidates delay signaling their availability because they feel locked into their current job until the last day. But recruiters want to know as soon as possible when you’re open to interviews and offers.

Tip: Mark yourself as Available Soon or update your status early in your notice period to maximize your chances of connecting with the right opportunities.

4. Burning Bridges at Your Current Job

Leaving a job on a sour note can damage your reputation. Future employers often value references and word-of-mouth, so maintaining professionalism is crucial.

Tip: Stay positive and professional, complete your handovers thoroughly, and express gratitude. A good exit builds goodwill and keeps doors open.

5. Ignoring Interview Preparation

Just because you’re serving notice doesn’t mean your interview prep can take a backseat. The better prepared you are, the more confident and successful you’ll be when opportunities arise.

Wrapping Up

Avoid these common pitfalls, stay engaged, and be proactive. Remember, every small step counts toward landing your next role faster and smoother.