Tips For Finding a Job in a New City

Moving to a new city is exciting, but it's highly stressful. One of the most difficult parts of moving is having all the pieces line up. You probably don't want to move without having a job, but who will hire you from a distance? In all likelihood, you can't afford to move to a new place with a little job security. Fortunately, there are ways in which you can find a new job before you skip town. With these tips, you can get your fresh start in record time.

Get to Know Your New City

Before you even begin looking for work, you should take the time to learn about your new city. Is it really where you see yourself in three years? If not, you should reconsider your move. Sure, you can up and move in one year. But it won't bode well for your job prospects because future employers might see you as a flight risk.

Take some time to find out everything there is to know about the city. Even if you've spent weeks vacationing or visiting the area, delve into the city as much as possible. Learn about the lifestyle, the neighborhoods, and the business prospects. As you research, try to imagine how the things you learn will affect you. What sort of quality of life will you have?

If you know of a company you want to work for, research the area near the company's buildings. Are there safe neighborhoods nearby? If you don't have a company or job in mind, learn more about your options. Find out who is hiring and which areas of the city you want to work and live in. Consider transportation and other important details.

Target Certain Companies

It's useful to start your search by picking a few companies that might have opportunities for you in the city. If you aren't familiar with any companies, do some research. Search for popular and growing companies in your industry and reach out to them. You may be able to find contact information for their recruiters and other staff members.

One good way to find potential employers is to read press releases and news articles. Additionally, look on a job search engine and see if there are any companies with multiple listings in the city. Those companies are expanding, and you will have more luck getting hired there.

Although you're not in town, you can use the internet to make your way around. Connect with people on LinkedIn and social media, and attend virtual events whenever possible. While you're at it, fill out a few applications for company positions and get your name out there.

Take Advantage of Your Network

Over the course of your education and professional career, you have probably built up quite the network. Now is the time to use your network to help you find a job. If you have any friends or acquaintances in the city, reconnect with them. Ask if they know of any job openings or if they can make an introduction.

Don't be shy when it comes to networking. Even if you haven't talked to someone in years, they're still an asset in the job search. Start off the conversation by asking about their family and work. Then, you can start to discuss your move and ask about job prospects. Although you might not get a job from the conversation, you could make a friend or learn about an opportunity.

Be Honest About Relocating

In an effort to seem like a more appealing job candidate, you might pretend you already live in the city. Unfortunately, this often backfires. It's best to be honest and up-front with the employer, otherwise attending interviews and follow-ups will make you a frequent flier.

Likewise, your secret will come out at some point or another. When an employer asks you questions or calls a reference, they could find out about your true living situation. And at that point, you can say goodbye to a job offer. In addition to ruining your chances at the one employer, you could damage your reputation in the city.

Instead of lying, tell the employer about your reasons for relocation. Let them know you are committed to moving regardless of a job offer. It may help to discuss friends or family members you have in the city. If you already looked at housing, you can casually mention your prospects. While discussing the move, you should be passionate and excited. The worst thing you can do is seem apathetic.

Don't Ask for Relocation Expenses

If you ask a potential employer for relocation expenses, you're at a disadvantage. There are probably many other job applicants, none of whom need relocation expenses. Why make the hiring process more difficult than necessary? By not requesting relocation expenses, you improve your chances of a job offer.

With that said, there are some circumstances that warrant relocation expenses. If you stand out in your industry or a company is open about offering a relocation bonus, you should take it. Just don't rush into the decision.

Try Temping

If you can't seem to find a job without being on-site, there's another interesting option. You could work at a temp agency in the city. While you do the work, you can find a place to live and build your network in the city. Sometimes, temp jobs even lead to full-time positions. It's a safety net that allows you to move to a new city without needing thousands of dollars in your savings account.

A temp job is a better option than taking a long-term position because you can leave at any time. As soon as you get the right job offer, you can stop temping and start working. You also have the luxury of more flexible hours, which gives you the time you need to get your affairs in order and look for work. If you feel stuck in your job search, temping is an excellent option.