Hi learned friends. 2 going 3 PQE assoc here in a mid sized firm at the smaller end.

I’m looking to move once I complete the year with my existing firm. Been severely underpaid and i dread going to work daily. Feel like I’ve not got much in me left here.

My notice is 2 months, however I plan to take a long holiday upon serving notice and a break. I intend to not stay beyond June with current firm.

If I were to try and start work elsewhere in late July-early August, would it be too early to start applying now? Would it compromise my application if I ask for later start date?

Particularly Big 4s, SLB DRD WKW MLS, FLAs when should I start looking to apply?
How is Bird and Bird?