Internships and full-time positions are typically filled months in advance of the desired start date. If you want to beat the competition to your dream job, when should you apply?

Many people don’t look for a position until they are able to start. A large portion of these openings will be gone, or in the final stages of interviewing. Waiting until your start date can be detrimental, and if it falls during a popular hiring time, the competition can be fierce (the beginning of summer or winter is when most people look for positions).

If you’re within six to eight months of your desired start date for your career, begin submitting your resume or application. There will always be openings where the company wants to fill the position immediately, but who knows; they may wait until you are able to join their team. They can also keep you in mind for future openings.

If you’re looking for an internship, apply to “intern wanted” ads whenever they become available. Even if you don’t want an internship until a few months down the road, look for an opening as soon as you can. Right after positions are posted there will be applications flooding in, and you don’t want to get left behind.

As you apply, be honest with your recruiter about your desired start date. If you aren’t able to begin working until June, let your recruiter know early in the application process. The right job will make sure all of your needs, within reason, are met.

In the end it’s better to be safe than sorry. If you see a job or internship perfect for you and your skill sets, apply. Even if the timing doesn’t work out, the company may have positions available that aren’t listed.

You never know what good can come from sending in your resume. Your dream career could be one application away.

Good luck!