Job Accomodation
Your Guide To Relocating for a Job
When you're ready for a change at work, you might consider moving to a new job at a different location. Often, a move may only mean going to the other side of town, but sometimes you may need to widen your search to a whole new area. Finding a job in a new city may mean changing the way you think about and search for a position. In this article, we explain how to prepare, search and interview for a job in another city.
Here are some steps you can take to get a job before you move out of your current area:
- Research.
- Contact a recruiter.
- Build a new network.
- Remove your location from your resume.
- Include your relocation plan in your cover letter.
- Apply for jobs.
- Prepare an explanation for your relocation.
How to find a job in another city
1. Determine your destination
A lot of factors can influence where you'll want to relocate for a job. First, identify why a particular place is important to you. If you simply want a fresh start, consider finding an area that is a current hub for your industry. Maybe you're looking for a job location that's closer to friends or family. If you're willing to consider multiple areas, narrow your search to two or three top locations as you pursue a new position.
2. Research potential areas
When you decide where you'd like to relocate, take time to find out about your prospective area. Explore local companies and make a list of the businesses you'd consider for future employment. Research the current job market in that area through local job postings and the chamber of commerce. Look at the types of industries hiring in that location to see if your work experience is a good fit for potential jobs. You may want to check on the social environment as well. Determine how your potential wage will impact things like housing costs and taxes. Think about how this new area will provide outlets for your hobbies and social interactions. Consider the climate in that locale. You may need to prepare yourself for weather conditions you aren't used to, especially if you need to travel for work during certain seasons.
3. Conduct a long-distance job search
Digital job boards make finding out-of-the-area employment more accessible. Set your search parameters for your chosen location as you seek a new position. You can also use local and national recruiters to help you find openings. Reach out to the HR department or hiring managers at prospective companies and let them know you're looking to relocate. They may be able to offer advice or help you make other connections in the area. It's also important to network as much as possible in your desired location. Seek out opportunities through professional networking groups both online and in-person. If you find groups to join before you go, you'll be able to get started as soon as you move to your new destination.
4. Make your intent to relocate clear
As you begin interviewing and sending out resumes for potential jobs, be open with employers that you are planning to relocate so they can better plan for a flexible interviewing process. If an employer is more likely to choose a local candidate, you will both save time if you realize this from the beginning. Inform potential employers that you are planning to relocate in the cover letter you send out. Share that you are excited to discover new opportunities by moving to a different location to advance your career.
5. Visit the area
Plan to visit the area for an extended period if possible. Once you have a place to stay, make yourself available for interviews and networking events. Use vacation time to meet with prospective employers and recruiters, and enjoy getting to know the new location apart from your job search. This can also help you decide if the move is right before you make a big change from your current lifestyle.
6. Understand relocation costs
Once you have a formal interview with an employer, you can find out if the company offers a relocation package. It's a good idea to plan on using your own funds for a move because businesses differ widely in what they offer new employees to cover moving costs. Even if a company doesn't pay for you to relocate, they may be willing to give you extra time to get settled before your official start date.
7. Prepare to be flexible
With so many factors involved in finding work in a new place, you'll need to allow for months of flexible time in your schedule. Be prepared to make last-minute trips for interviews or schedule time off for video calls. Prepare as much as you can before you officially start your search. Choose a place to stay and your mode of transportation for the trip. Make sure you have enough time off budgeted from your current position. You may even want to have a bag packed.
