Searching for a new job can be stressful, and even more so if you’re considering relocating for a job to a new city. Here are 6 tips for how to make your job search more productive if you’re considering taking your career to a new location.
Research
Do your homework and get to know the new city you’re thinking of moving to and get an idea if it’s a good fit for your lifestyle and personality. Visit to make ensure it’s what you’re looking for and that you can picture yourself living and working there.
Work with a Recruiter
If you’re looking to explore opportunities in a different area than the one you live in, working with a recruiter can make that process easier. They know the local area and local employers and can help you match your skills and background to a company that will be a good fit for you. They’ll also be able to help negotiate for the company to cover your moving expenses and possibly connect you with a proven realtor who knows the area well.
Social Media
There are several things you can do using social media.
- Change the location on your account to your new desired location to make it easier for recruiters and companies to find you when searching based on zip code and location.
- Join local groups on LinkedIn as well as Facebook. It’s a great way to find out what’s going on and network to make new connections in your new city. Make sure to introduce yourself to people who work for any potential companies you’d like to work for.
- Seek out other social networks such as Twitter and Instagram as well to seek out local information and connections.
Cover Letter
In your cover letter, highlight that you’re looking to move and reasons why. For example, moving with your spouse to be closer to family/friends and new career challenges. Describe why that particular location; such as the industry you’re in is booming in that city, or other specific reasons are good ways to show a potential employer you have a valid reason for moving. You’ll want to avoid giving the impression that you’re sending variations of the same cover letter all around the country just to see if anything sticks, so make sure you let the employer know why you’re wanting to move to their city specifically.
Networking
Network with anyone and everyone you can think of who might be able to help you in your job search in your new city. Aside from family or closer friends, check your social connections and let them know you’re looking to relocate, what types of jobs you’re interested in and ask if they can give you any advice about the local job market.
Target Specific Companies
This advice goes both for applying locally as well as in other cities. If there’s a specific company you’d like to work for, use all available resources to talk to and network with people who work for that company. Find out about the company culture and what it’s like to work there and introduce yourself to recruiters and others who may be able to help you in your job search within the company. If you’re coming in from out of town, try to schedule meetings to introduce yourself and get your foot in the door.
Find a Job with iMPact
Here at iMPact Business Group we have job opportunities in IT, Accounting/Finance, Engineering and Business Administration across the US. If you’re looking to relocate or find new opportunities in your local area, please browse your job board for open opportunities and create searches to receive notifications when new ones are added. If you’d like to submit your resume for general consideration, please click the button below.
