Do you desire fresh opportunities for personal and professional growth that require you to relocate to a new city? Do family commitments make it essential that you move to a new location? Job hunting in an unfamiliar metropolis can be a challenge. Should you relocate and then find a job, relying on savings as you search for employment? Should you job search from afar and move once you find work? How do you find work in an unfamiliar location? How do you get noticed and convince potential employers that you’re the right fit for their position? Following are some tips and strategies for finding a job in a new city.
- Do your homework: Research the job market in the new location. Check out companies that are leaders in your industry. Visit the new locale to familiarize yourself with living and working conditions. What pace of life do you observe? What amenities (parks, museums, schools, etc.) are available? Do you know anyone in the area? What is the weather like? The information gleaned helps you decide if you truly wish to relocate and, if so, how quickly and easily you may settle in.
- Optimize your application: Hiring someone from out of town presents logistical challenges for employers; scheduling an interview, added costs, differing time zones, etc. Ensure that your application/resume highlights how qualified you are for the position making you the best candidate and guaranteeing an interview. Accomplish this by applying for jobs you are well suited for; positions for which you have the experience, skill set and cultural fit. Highlight what makes you unique. Use your cover letter to communicate how you can benefit the company and your passion for the opportunity. Make it clear that you are both interested in and planning to move.
- Think broad: Target positions in the desired city and within a radius of that location. Use advanced job search options to help with this endeavor.
- Sign up for job alerts (email and/or text) on company websites as well as job listing sites enabling you to be one of the first applications received.
- Join LinkedIn groups specific to your desired location: This makes it easy to connect with professionals living in the city to which you are relocating and to begin building a new network. Pay attention to the discussions. Search for people working for companies that interest you and introduce yourself.
- Make yourself available for interviews: Be prepared and willing to be flexible regarding interview scheduling. Research the best mode of transportation in advance. Schedule interviews during a time that’s convenient for the interviewer and never cancel at the last minute. If potential employers request a virtual interview, treat it as you would an in-person event.
- Don’t bank on a relocation package: Some companies offer relocation packages (packing service, moving company and insurance coverage, home selling assistance, temporary housing, travel reimbursement, etc.) while others do not. Be prepared to make your own arrangements, if needed.
- Tap your network: Any family, friends, professionals (LinkedIn contacts) and/or college connections (alumni associations) you have in the new city may be helpful. Let them know you intend to relocate and ask for assistance.
- Consider a job transfer: If you work for a large company with offices in a new location, transferring may be an option. Request a transfer to a similar job or a brand-new position within the corporation.
- Be open to a temp or seasonal job: If your move has a tight timeline, consider working as a temp or taking a seasonal position. A short-term job can take you through till you find full-time work.
- Find a recruiter in the city you’re relocating to: A recruiting agency can connect you to potential employers, advocate for your talent, provide expert advice and help you find a suitable position. They know the local job market; who’s hiring, who’s planning to hire and the open roles that aren’t yet publicly posted. Their extensive networks and strong relationships with client companies, means they know what employers want. They can save you time and money.
Finding the right job in a new city takes time and energy but it’s possible to land a solid position in the new location. Have patience. Be persistent and ask for the help of a qualified recruiting agency. Soon you will live and work in your new location.
Looking for a new position in a new city? Interested in some expert advice and assistance? Call the Calgary recruiting agency, Equation Staffing Solutions at 1-844-367-9618. We are a reliable, innovative, collaborative agency here to support you in your search for a position and/or personnel. Our experience will assist you! Contact us today.