Ploymint

You’re ready for a change of scenery, but still need to line up a job. Job hunting in another state can be particularly daunting. The search may take longer than you’re used to and you’ll have to explain your situation to each potential employer in some way. However, it is not impossible! Below are some tips for a successful out-of-state job search.

1. Explain your situation

Employers typically don’t expect to field resumes from candidates who aren’t in the local area. You should include your relocation plans on your resume right up front. Under your current address, add something along the lines of “Relocating to New York City, November 2015.” This way, the employer sees this information as soon as they come across your resume. They’ll also see that you have firm plans to move. You should also detail your plans in your cover letter. Including a moving date lets the employer know your plans are definite—they won’t have to pay for your move or worry about plans falling through should they decide to extend an offer to you.

2. Be available for interviews

Sure, this seems obvious, but this is new territory. It’s not as simple as setting a date and showing up to the company’s office. You will have to make yourself available (and willing) to go through an unconventional interview process. You may have to go through several phone interviews or, perhaps, even a Skype or FaceTime session. Depending on where you’re planning to move, there may also be significant time differences at play. Considering an out-of-town candidate is extra work for all involved, so be sure to be as accommodating as possible to your potential employer.

3. Track down local recruiters

It might be beneficial to have a local go-between help you with your job search. A recruiter who’s familiar with the territory can let you know what to expect in that region’s specific job market. He or she can also explain your situation fully to each employer, assuaging any misgivings they may have and showing that your plans to move are concrete and already in motion.

4. Research the job market

It is a good idea to see what sort of job market you’ll be moving to. You’ll want to have a good idea of the available jobs in your field and what the pay differences may be compared with what you make now. This could affect where in the your new location you decide to live, or even your moving plans in general. A tool like Jobs With Relo may be helpful.

5. Find local career groups online

Networking is key to entering a job market in a new location. Start digging around LinkedIn and Meetup to find local events and career groups where you can get to know a good amount of people quickly. You will gain essential insight into the job prospects in your new location and potentially make contacts who can help you directly with your search. Also, you’ll build your social network for when you’re settled in your new surroundings.

6. See if your company has offices in other locations

Your company may have satellite offices in other areas. You may not have to quit your job altogether, but rather can inquire about a transfer or relocation to one of your company’s other offices. The interview process would be a little easier and you would already be familiar with the work and company culture.

7. Search for telecommuting jobs

Working from home may be a viable option for you. Be sure to seek out these opportunities in addition to in-office positions during your search. Even if it’s not ultimately the job situation you’re looking for, it could reduce the stress of interviewing out of state and explaining your relocation plans to every hiring manager. Also, it could lead to other, more amenable job prospects; you’ll have settled into your new surroundings and established a work history there.

8. Tap into your alumni network

You may have gone to college with someone living in the area you’re moving to. Most colleges will have an alumni social networking group where your institution’s graduates can connect. You may find someone with helpful information about job prospects or someone in an actual hiring role to whom you can direct your resume.

9. Make plans to be in town during your job search

If possible, leave open days where you could conceivably be in town for an interview during your job search. Face time with a potential employer could give you an essential edge and demonstrate that you’re serious both about the job and relocating. It might not be feasible, but it is something worth considering if you can swing it.

10. Use a friend’s or family member’s address on your resume

If you know someone in the area, ask about using their address on your resume. You can eliminate the confusion or ambiguity inherent to applying for jobs out of state and have your resume considered solely on its merits.

Moving to a new state brings with it many complexities and stressors, chief among them locking down employment. These tips may help to make the job portion of your relocation a little easier and hopefully more successful.