When was the last time you applied for a job? Or perhaps you are looking for your first job; how do you know when to apply for it? Applying for jobs can be a full time job in itself. Instead of just applying for jobs 24-7 all throughout the day and night, there are suggested times, days, and seasons that could give you a leg up.

Have you ever heard of the early bird that gets the worm? If not, the bird that wakes up earliest, increases their chances of catching the worm. In this case, the early bird that gets the worm – gets the job interview. Maybe not every single time, but to increase your chances of getting offered an interview, here are some tips for applying for jobs at the right time.

Best seasons to apply for jobs: You will always find job postings throughout the year. This should not discourage you when applying for jobs, do not over think it — shoot them off when it is best for you. However, there are some months that are better when applying for jobs. As we are approaching the new year, companies often receive their hiring budget around January for the year. That means, when the holiday breaks are over, everyone is back in the office, and they are looking for potential candidates to hire. Therefore, January and February are the best times to apply for jobs. What better way to start your year off than to apply for a new job?

What about individuals that are still in school and will not be finishing until spring? That is okay, March through May are also good times to apply for jobs. There are many entry-level positions that become available during these months, where employers are looking to hire someone fresh out of high school or college.

Again, if you find yourself in need of a job in September, do not wait until January, there are still good positions available throughout the year.

Best days to apply for jobs: In addition to the best seasons to apply for jobs, there are specific days that are better than others. Just going to come out and say it, Saturday is the worst day to apply for a job. Use this day to proofread your resume and get everything prepared. If you can, wait until Monday to shoot those applications off. Why? Because they are at the top of the pile on Monday. For companies that have the budget to hire, this is often their priority. They come into the office, grab their coffee for the day, and tackle that pile of applications. Why not let yours be the positive impression they need to start their week off. Tuesday is your next best day to send those applications off. Monday AND Tuesday both tend to show you are eager and motivated about the job.

Best times to apply for jobs: Instead of shooting out applications all throughout the day or right before bedtime. You have a much better chance of scoring an interview if you send your resume/applications out between 6 AM and 10 AM. Work on your application the night before if you have missed the window, and send it off the next morning. Cannot make it that early? Try lunch hours around 12:30. Of course, if you are applying for a job that is in another state with a different time zone, you will want to apply to the position that is in their time zone, not yours.

As January approaches, take some time to update your resume so that you are ready to send those applications off.