How tough is it to figure out what day you're available to start a new job?

Seriously, dudes. It isn't difficult. Many have done it before, many will do it after. We'd all love to be able to magically schedule our separation date from Uncle Sam to be the day before we start newhire class with our new airline, but that's just not realistic. If that means that you have to put a stake in the ground for a separation date first, before you have any idea if you even have to job. then that's what's required.

I had apps in for months/years when I got to the point that I had to make a decision with Big Blue. I established a date with no interview, no job offer waiting, because that's what I had to do.

When in doubt, make the conservative call. Your dream job may depend on it.