You have an urge to travel and see the world, and you would like to relocate. But this presents a dilemma – you need to find a job in your new location. You really would rather not quit your current job and then look for work after the move. The good news is by being proactive you can take steps toward finding employment in your new location before the move, and possibly even nail down a new job.
Here are some things you can do
Looking for a job in a new city? Do these 5 things:
1. Include your moving timetable in your resume and cover letter.
If you send application materials to employers in your new location, they will naturally see your current address, and this may put you at a disadvantage to local applicants. To resolve this issue, include your projected moving date on your resume just under your current address. In your cover letter, also explain when you are moving and that you would be happy to come for an interview any time.
2. Use online sources for employer information
There are plenty of sources online to look at for information about the employers in your profession who are at your new location. Also, look at local job sources online that are located in your destination city.
3. Practice your interview answers
When you interview, the employers will naturally want to know why you are moving, so you want to have an answer ready to go. You need to be prepared so that you are not struggling to come up with a persuasive explanation.
4. Network
This is probably the most effective way to create employment opportunities at your new location. Tell everyone you know about your move and ask them if they have any contacts or information about employment opportunities at your destination city.
Talk to colleagues, supervisors and mentors, past and present. Talk to people you may know in any professional organizations you belong to. Also, check with your connections on LinkedIn for help and through LinkedIn reach out to people who have experience living or working in your destination city.
5. Be flexible
You may have phone interviews at odd hours or be asked to fly to your new location for an in-person interview. You need to make yourself available for these things because, again, your are at a disadvantage regarding access compared to local candidates
Looking for a new job?
Opti has placed thousands of job candidates with employers throughout Alaska, Oregon, and Washington. Contact your local branch to see how we can help you find your next job or your next employee. As we like to say at Opti, “Our success is determined by your success.”
