I could hand in what would be almost a three weeks notice on Monday, where I would stay through the Thanksgiving holiday. It would give me a definite date to tell other potential employers when I could start, rather than the vague "two weeks notice" that has cost me several job opportunities in the past because they didn't want to wait that long for me to start.

Still, the risks are there. If all of these deals fall through, I don't have any income, and gaps in employment look bad.

What would you do?

I take it you're not American? Unemployment over there is basically 10percent of the population right now.
It is technically still a recession - jumping the gun too soon could result in you loosing out on both your current job and all of your other "possible" roles.

All the best, patience is a virtue.

Regards

All you say is "I'd like to start right away, however out of respect for my current employer, I am giving my two week notice."  Or something along those lines.

That way you can obtain a reference from that old job.  If you just up and quit, theyre gonna be pissed at you.

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