Finding a job in a new city can be a daunting challenge. After all, usually you are not there and can’t get to an interview just any time. However, along with these challenges comes immense opportunities for growth- both personally and professionally. In fact, Glassdoor has a list of “Best Cities for Jobs” that could be just what you are looking for. A quick look at this list reveals the top 25 cities that can offer amazing benefits and job satisfaction. Not only this but moving to a bigger city can also increase your earning potential as well.
If you are really looking for a fresh start, in a new city, the most important thing to do will be to find a few ways to get noticed and convince potential employers that YOU are the person to hire regardless of your current location. In order to do that, you will have to show them that you have all the necessary qualifications and skills to do the work you want to apply for.
Keeping that in mind, here are 5 things to keep in mind when trying to find a job in a new city.
1. Don't Wait
As with most things in life, it is not usually a good idea to wait until the last minute to start searching for a new job. For best results, you should usually begin searching as soon as you know you will be moving to a new location. The best way to begin is to join some job search pages and see what kind of work is common in the area you are looking to move to. Don’t worry about starting too soon, the sooner the better! If you do land an interview right away, let them know when you intend to move and when you will be available.
2. Do Your Research
When choosing a workplace, there are many considerations. Will you need to commute, or can you walk? You’ll also want to research the area, specifically the hiring opportunities, salaries and rate of growth. For example, Orlando has led the nation in job growth for the past 4 years, and ranks 6th in Forbes’ 15 Best Big Cities for Jobs. This is especially true for Orlando’s STEM job growth, which Forbes’ explained is “growing at a faster clip than even Bay Area metros”. Knowing the city you are moving to is essential for a quick job search.
3. Social Media, Your Key To Success
If your move is pending, and you don’t have to worry about anyone finding out, it could be beneficial to act as though you are already in the new location you plan to move to. If a recruiter is searching for local candidates with a Zip Code or location-based search your name will have a better chance of showing up in search results. LinkedIn groups can also be a key factor for finding work. These social groups have made is extremely easy to connect with professionals in the area and industry you are looking to join. Once you find some groups that fit your niche, pay attention and be active in the discussions, search for possible connections, and take the opportunity to introduce yourself to the connections you would like to make in your future city. Don’t only limit yourself to LinkedIn however, reach out to groups on Facebook and check out the Facebook pages of some companies you might be interested in working for.
4. Consider Interviews
You should try to always be available to do online or phone interviews with potential employers, and when possible, be able to travel to them. Some companies will only want to interview people who can come in and if you are unable to, you are unlikely to get the job. Fortunately, many companies are coming around to video interviewing with: Skype, Bluejeans or HighFIve. Utilizing these technologies get to talk face to face, without having to travel for the interview. If you do, make sure to dress as professionally as you would for an actual in-person interview.
5. Cover Your Bases
When writing your cover letter, make sure that you are clear about your move in the opening. Many employers will get nervous when they receive a resume from someone out of town since they don’t know if you expect to be compensated for relocation, or that you are sending out “cookie cutter” cover letters to different cities all over the world. To calm these fears, it is helpful to make it clear you are moving to that specific location and provide a good reasoning for planning the move.
6. Take Advantage of a Knowledgeable Recruiter
Recruiters, like us at Visium Resources, are always looking for new exciting talent. One of your first searches should be to find a recruiter in the new city who specializes in your field. At worst, a recruiter can give you the “lay of the land”, how the job market looks in the area. At best, you could be the perfect match for a position they were looking for. Finding an honest, fair recruiter can make finding a job in a new city painless and stress-free.
As we all know, moving is stressful enough. Don’t let the worry of finding a new job in your new city preoccupy you more than it needs to. Follow these six easy tips and your odds of landing a new job are sure to increase!
If you are planning a move to the Central Florida area and want even more help, give us a call or shoot us an email and we’ll be sure to help you out to the best of our abilities. Because, at Visium Resources, we’re here for you!
