Looking to get a job in another state? Uprooting your life and moving across the country can be a scary proposition. Fortunately, there are plenty of different resources you can make use of to make the transition as easy as possible.
The first thing you’ll want to do is make sure your resume is in order. Just like any other job you’ve ever applied for, you want to put your best foot forward. The best way to do that is to put together a great looking resume that highlights all your different skills and experiences. Now that your resume is in order let’s look at some tips that can help you secure a great job in your new location.
Research Your New City
Before you do anything else, take a deeper look at the area you’re looking to move to. There are plenty of online resources that will give you a good idea of what you can expect to pay for rent, what most people in the area make each year and more. This information will give you an idea of the budget you’ll need to pay for your necessities. Once you have a clearer idea of these costs, you’ll know how much money you’ll need to make at a minimum to pay your bills.
Leverage Your Network
Over the years, you’ve probably built a robust professional network that is going to come in handy as you look for your new job. If you’re currently working, and you like the position you’re in, you may want to see if it’s possible for you to transfer to a branch or office in your new location.
Be sure to make use of networks like LinkedIn or Facebook as well. You’ll be surprised by how helpful these networks can be in your search for a new job.
Use Online Job Boards and Search Engines
No matter where you’re moving, you’ll find an extensive range of job search tools online. These sites are a great resource for finding a new job, especially for someone that’s new to the area. From here you can identify jobs that are a good fit and begin applying for them.
Prepare Your Cover Letter
You’ll want to tailor a great cover letter for each job you’re applying for. Your cover letter is an opportunity to sell yourself and your skills to each potential employer. At the same time, it’s also an opportunity to explain to your employer why you’re relocating.
For some employers, the fact you aren’t local is going to be an obstacle. You’ll need to go the extra mile to alleviate any concerns a company may have for hiring someone from another part of the country. Be forthcoming, honest and informative. Above all, make sure your letter leaves your potential employer with a sense that you’re a good fit for the job and a candidate that’s worth interviewing.
Explain Yourself
Be prepared to answer the question “so why are you moving” as eloquently and enthusiastically as possible. The last thing you can afford to do on an interview is fumble your way through some half-baked explanation about why you’re moving. You’ll want to be sure to craft a story that’s short, to the point, and above all positive. Your answer to this question is a great way to differentiate yourself from other candidates and highlight why your relocation would make you an asset to the company.
Interviewing Remotely
There’s a strong chance that a prospective employer will be looking to consult a preliminary interview with you online, through a platform like Skype. Make sure you’re in a position to conduct an interview. If you don’t have a webcam, buy one. Make sure you have a solid internet connection that can handle smooth web conferencing.
When it comes to remote interviews, you’ll want to treat them with the same reverence and professionalism that you’d treat an in-person interview with.
Interviewing in Person
Once you’ve completed an initial interview or two, you can expect a company to want to meet you in person. If possible, try and plan a trip for several days. That way, you can set up multiple interviews, and have some time to check out your new location, meet people and make new connections.
Online travel sites are a great way to save money on hotels, airfare and other travel expenses. In some cases, your potential employer will offer to pay the cost of your travel expenses. But, if that’s not the case, you’ll want to be able to make the trip out as affordably as possible.
Give Yourself Time to Settle In
Once you’ve landed your first job in your new city, it’s time to pack your stuff and ship out. Do yourself a favor, and leave ample time to move, and settle into your new location before you begin work. This will give you an opportunity to get your bearings, relax, and make sure you start off on the right foot in your new position.
