Employee says 90-day notice period is 'killing' his job search: 'HRs take zero excuses'

Employee says 90-day notice period is 'killing' his job search: 'HRs take zero excuses'

A professional's frustration over India's long notice periods has struck a chord with thousands of social media users after he claimed that his mandatory 90-day notice period is making it nearly impossible to secure a new job.

Sharing his experience on a career-focused online platform, the employee said recruiters routinely reject his application after learning he cannot join immediately, despite performing well in interviews.

'HRs take zero excuses'

In his post, the employee wrote that every interview follows a similar pattern until the discussion turns to his notice period.

"My 90-day notice period is literally killing my job search. HRs take zero excuses. The moment I say I need three months to join, they lose interest."

He added that several recruiters had initially shown enthusiasm about his profile but eventually moved ahead with candidates who were available sooner.

The employee questioned why companies insist on lengthy notice periods for resigning staff while simultaneously preferring immediate joiners when hiring.

A familiar concern among professionals

The post quickly gained traction, with many professionals saying they had encountered the same problem.

Several users described India's 90-day notice period as one of the biggest obstacles in the hiring process, arguing that it places employees in a difficult position. They said candidates are often caught between honouring contractual obligations with their current employer and meeting the expectations of prospective recruiters.

Others pointed out that while some companies are willing to buy out notice periods or negotiate an early release, many organisations continue to prioritise candidates who can join within a few weeks.

Mixed reactions online

The discussion prompted a range of opinions.

Some users sympathised with the employee, calling for companies to shorten notice periods or adopt more flexible exit policies. They argued that long notice requirements slow down hiring and discourage career mobility.

Others, however, defended the practice, saying organisations need sufficient time to ensure smooth knowledge transfer, complete ongoing projects and recruit replacements for departing employees.

A few professionals suggested practical solutions, including discussing an early release with the current employer, using accumulated leave to shorten the notice period or being transparent with recruiters from the outset.

A recurring hiring challenge

Lengthy notice periods have long been a contentious issue in India's corporate sector, particularly in industries such as information technology, consulting and financial services.

Recruiters often work under tight hiring timelines and may prioritise candidates who can join quickly, while employers maintain that extended notice periods help minimise operational disruptions.

The mismatch between these expectations continues to create challenges for job seekers, many of whom find themselves losing opportunities despite clearing multiple interview rounds.

As the employee's post continues to circulate online, it has once again brought attention to the growing debate over whether 90-day notice periods remain practical in today's fast-moving job market.