Here's how you can convey your availability and flexibility to potential employers.

Considering employers prefer 'passive' versus 'active' job seekers, it might be best to minimize your availability on your resume and cover letter. I would definitely not include 'available for immediate start' on your resume, cover letter, or LinkedIn profile, which an employer might translate into 'not working' or 'ready to quit without notice', which translates to 'Get me out of here!' Focus on presenting projects you completed ahead of any scheduled deadlines. Emphasize work successes achieved in a moment's notice. Showcasing flexibility and the ability to adapt to change is important, which are best presented in the context of a 'Key Project' included with the role to which it applies. Travel, relocation, etc. presented in the header.

I disagree about stating "immediate availability" on a resume or in a cover letter. It screams desperation or unemployment. Availability is a topic to discuss once a potential employer wants to hire you, not to be advertised.

Use your cover letter to expand on your availability and flexibility. Explain how your adaptable nature has benefited previous employers and how it aligns with the needs of the potential employer. Share specific examples of situations where you had to be flexible and how you successfully navigated those challenges. This helps to build a narrative around your ability to meet their scheduling needs.

When you prepare for an interview, always try to keep some examples ready. Like I say, you may be a great candidate for the role but you are not until you can showcase that in the interview. Make a list of common questions that applies to your role and prepare your STAR responses. Practice, and keep it authentic while responding during an interview. Showcase your flexibility, adaptability, etc.

The interview is the perfect time to showcase you are the right hire and taking the time to prepare and practice will help with confidence and delivering the best answers! Think of your strengths and tell a story in the interview to explain your qualifications. By practicing answers to some of the tougher questions you will be prepared and ready.

These concrete examples belong on your résumé so they will inspire hiring managers to invite you in for an interview. You can always expand on them during the interview, but if you don’t include them on your résumé, you’re missing a great opportunity to showcase your skills.

When attending networking events, communicate your availability and flexibility in conversations with potential employers and industry contacts. Mention your openness to various roles and schedules, and share examples of how you have successfully managed diverse work demands in the past. Networking events are also an excellent opportunity to gather insights into what employers value in terms of flexibility.

Always follow up after interviews or events. Make sure to express your gratitude and their time, share your enthusiasm to the role and company and reiterate any points that make you the right candidate for the role. Try to send follow up emails within 24-48 hours of the meeting so that you are fresh in their memory and they see the enthusiasm that you bring in.

After interviews or networking meetings, send follow-up messages that reiterate your availability and flexibility. Thank the employer or contact for their time and reaffirm your interest in the position or the company. Mention your readiness to discuss any further details regarding your schedule and how you can accommodate their needs.