GuidesUpdated 12 Oct 2026 · Team InterviewPlan

How to Answer "What Is Your Notice Period?"

Notice period questions are common in Indian IT hiring, where 60 to 90 day notice periods can decide whether you get an offer. A clear, honest answer with a plan for early joining helps you stay in the running.

Common notice period norms

In India, notice periods for IT roles are commonly 30, 60 or 90 days, depending on the company and seniority. Many large services firms use 60 to 90 days. Some employers allow buyout, where you or the new employer pay to shorten it, while others only allow early release at the manager's discretion.

In the US, two weeks is customary for most at will jobs, though senior roles may give more. For remote roles with global companies, recruiters often expect shorter timelines, so explain your Indian contract terms clearly.

How to answer

Be precise and offer options. Recruiters prefer clarity over optimistic promises.

  • State the contractual period: my notice period is 60 days
  • Add flexibility: my company allows early release after handover, which could bring it to 45 days
  • Mention buyout only if it is allowed in your contract
  • If serving notice: my last working day is the 15th of next month
  • If already relieved: I can join immediately

What to avoid

Inconsistency on joining dates damages trust and can lead to offers being withdrawn.

  • Do not claim a shorter notice period than your contract states
  • Do not resign before you have a written offer unless you are comfortable with the risk
  • Do not accept an offer you intend to use only as leverage without considering the consequences
  • Do not ignore your relieving letter and full and final settlement process

Use the notice period well

Once you have an offer, plan your handover carefully and stay in touch with the new employer. If you are still interviewing during notice, InterviewPlan AI mock interviews and Resume AI can help you keep preparing efficiently.

Questions and model answers

4 questions you are likely to hear.

  1. What is your notice period? (Java Developer, 90 days)

    Why they ask: They want to know your earliest joining date and whether it can be shortened.

    Sample answer: My contractual notice period is 90 days. My company has allowed early release in the past once handover is complete, and I would start the knowledge transfer immediately after resigning. I also have some leave balance that I can adjust. Realistically, I can aim to join within 60 to 70 days, and I will confirm the exact date as soon as my manager approves the release.

  2. How soon can you join? (Data Analyst, serving notice)

    Why they ask: They check whether your timeline is firm and whether you are holding other offers.

    Sample answer: I resigned three weeks ago and I am currently serving my 60 day notice period. My last working day is the 28th of next month, and I can join from the first of the following month. My handover is going well, so if you need me earlier I can ask my manager whether a slightly earlier release is possible, but I would not want to promise that until it is confirmed.

  3. Is your notice period negotiable? (Business Analyst)

    Why they ask: They want to know if a buyout or early release is possible.

    Sample answer: My notice period is 60 days, and the policy allows a buyout of the remaining period after 30 days if the business agrees. I have already documented most of my work, so a handover within a month is realistic. If your team can support the buyout or if my manager agrees to an early release, I could join in around 30 to 35 days. Otherwise, I will be available on the 60th day.

  4. When can you start? (Remote role with a US company)

    Why they ask: US employers may expect two weeks, so they want a clear explanation.

    Sample answer: My employment contract in India requires a 30 day notice period, which is standard for my company. I would resign as soon as I receive the written offer and complete a structured handover. That means I could start about 30 days from the offer date. If you need me sooner for onboarding, I am happy to complete paperwork and any pre reading during my notice period, outside working hours.

FAQ

Questions people ask about notice period.

What is a typical notice period in Indian IT companies?

It is commonly 30, 60 or 90 days, depending on the employer and your level. Always check your appointment letter and the current policy, as some companies have changed terms over time.

Can I negotiate my notice period with my employer?

Often you can request an early release after completing handover, or use leave adjustment or buyout if your policy allows it. It depends on your manager and project needs, so ask early.

Will a long notice period cost me the job?

It can for urgent roles, but many employers plan around 60 to 90 days. Show flexibility, such as early release or a clear handover plan, to reduce their concern. Being upfront early also builds trust.

Should I resign before getting an offer?

It can make you an immediate joiner, which some employers like, but it carries financial risk. Decide based on your savings and how strong your pipeline is. Many people wait for a written offer first.

Is the notice period the same in the US?

No. Most US jobs are at will, and two weeks' notice is a common courtesy. Contracts for senior roles or certain industries may specify longer periods. Always check your own contract.

P.S.

Reading helps. Practising out loud helps more.

Start free with 5 live minutes and 100 AI credits for Resume AI, Job Search, Auto-Apply, mock interviews and Behavioral Coach.