Submitting job applications WAY before deadlines: an advantage?

[Spirit]

Hey,

I'm searching for a job in the environmental field these days. I have started my search recently and don't have much experience about professional norms in the work place -- I'm trying to get my first job after college. I'm wondering if I complete my job application 10 days or two weeks before the deadline then it will be a thing that recruiters like -- and may be to my advantage. Or: If submitting applications a day or two before the deadline, or on the deadline day will be the best strategy.

Perhaps this question is weird, but I seriously have limited time and resources and I don't want to get small things add up and collapse my efforts through the process.

 

[Choppy]

I think the best strategy is to apply as soon as you can once you're sure you want the job because:
- there's a smaller risk that something will come up and you will miss the deadline
- the earlier you apply, the earlier your name is associated with the position
- if too many qualified applicants put their names in, the company could unofficially close the competition early
- it gives the recruiters more time to research you (call references, previous employers, read your Facebook page, etc.)

 

[Gil-galad]

I think the best strategy is to apply as soon as you can once you're sure you want the job because:
- it gives the recruiters more time to research you (call references, previous employers, read your Facebook page, etc.)

How can they read your Facebook page ?

 

[Choppy]

How can they read your Facebook page ?

It strikes me as odd that anyone would implicitly assume that a potential employer cannot access a social networking site. Depending on the company, many recruiters will now search cyberspace when checking up on a potential candidate. The fact that you generally have control over who is listed as a 'friend' or that you post on a forum using a pseudonym only guarantees a superficial level of anonymity. When it comes to government jobs that require security clearance for example, all bets are off.

 

[maverick_starstrider]

No! They will discover all my hidden passions that I saw fit to publish on the internet!