When moving to a new state or city, one important consideration to make is the availability of work opportunities in your field. Reaching out to search firms like ours can help you get insight into and guidance concerning your job search, but here are other strategies you can deploy to make your move and work transition successful.
Plan Ahead
First, you should always start planning well ahead of a scheduled move, as finding work can often take more time than anticipated. This is especially true if you’re a more senior professional, or where the market for your particular skill set isn’t as high.
Inform Your Network
Let your network know you’re moving. We all have networks that may span different states or countries. Advising your network of a potential transition can help pave the path for your move and connect you to more opportunities.
Leverage Job Directories
Set up job alerts on familiar job directories such as Indeed and LinkedIn. After this, review lists of prospective employers in your target area and plan a trip to the area to set up informational interviews. Plan your visit around a conference or trade show to maximize the number of people that you can meet on your trip.
Let Prospective Employers Know
For expense and other reasons, most employers will first search for talent in their immediate geography. Therefore, making a statement in your resume or cover letter that says, for instance; ‘Relocating to North Carolina in (month and date)’ and/or explaining the rationale behind your move, will often help influence hiring decisions.
Consider Working Remotely
Many employers are now considering a more remote workforce, so some professionals might be able to relocate more easily and then seek a new role, or simply relocate and keep their current role – which may give them the best of both worlds.
If you’re planning a move, the above considerations will be useful towards smoothening your relocation and helping you find a suitable role before or after your transition. Look here for more helpful articles, or visit our podcast.