In my current role, I'm a key part of a project that will wrap up in 3 months. After my current obligation ends, I'd like to join a new company as soon as possible due to limited growth opportunities here. How early should I begin job searching? I don't want to start the process with a company that I really like only to lose out because they're looking for someone to join immediately. I also don't want to leave my coworkers high and dry by not seeing through this project. Previous job hunts took about 2 months, but I have more skills and experience now so it might be different. I've got 5 years of experience.
Agree with @BmmC73. Job searches usually have multiple stages, and each can be delayed to suit your needs. You can start now, especially by finding a list of positions you want to apply to and interview prep.
Now. 2 months still normal. Toughest part is getting noticed to start interviewing process. The rest can be spaced out to your schedule for generic roles.
Right now to be honest. Things you can do right now include doing leetcode everyday for half an hour for 3 months. It can mean going onto LinkedIn and reverse recruiting recruiters to bring you into their organizations. It can mean going to meet up and forming relationships with other Engineers or hiring managers. It can mean working on your brand. Things like writing a blog or giving talks. Three months is actually kind of a minimum for going to this extent
Now. Be picky at first and see how it goes. If you want to speed things up then answer more recruiter calls.
Even doing it backwards can be really helpful. Startup with your plan B companies, get into the interview groove instead of bombing out on initial interviews with fist choice companies.
Start rn