Relocation 101:

How To Relocate Before You Find Another Job (Part I of II)

So you’ve decided that you want to work somewhere else. You’re tired of the local rat race and want a change of venue, new scenery, a fresh start. This article is for those who know exactly where they want to live, but have yet to find a job there. What’s the best approach to take in order to get the job you want in the city you’ve chosen?

First thing’s first. If you’ve already chosen a location, you should calculate its cost of living. Sometimes people find themselves in a bind when they haven’t done the math, and they’re in a new city with a higher cost of living without the salary to sustain it. Determine the impact cost of living will have on your move long before you pack the UHaul.

Which Comes First, the Relocation or the Job Offer?
It’s no secret that finding work in a city where you live is much easier than finding work in a city miles away. It’s easier to schedule interviews, research companies, locate job prospects, and network. But it can be difficult to fund a job search in your dream city when you don’t have a job, and the average job search can take anywhere from 3 to 5 months. So which comes first, the move or the job?

Funding Your Job Search
If you’ve chosen to move first, then here are three ways to pay the bills while you look for your dream job in your dream city.

Do temp work. Temp work has more advantages than you might imagine. First, you can earn money while looking for your dream job. Second, you can sample different organizations to get a feel for what you’re looking for in an employer while showcasing your skills. Third, you’ll have a greater opportunity to network. And fourth, you’ll have the flexibility to schedule work around your job search.

Freelance. Consider doing freelance work until you find a job. This could also provide you with networking opportunities while bringing in the money to pay your bills.

Study your spouse’s benefits. Sometimes employers offer employment assistance programs that help the spouses of relocated employees find new jobs. These programs often have access to exclusive job listings.

Tips for an Effective Job Search
Once you’ve figured out how to fund the hunt, you need to start looking. Here are three tips that will jump start your job search.

Establish local contact information. The first thing you should do after moving is obtain a local address and phone number to share with potential employers. It will be difficult for them to schedule interviews if they don’t have any contact information.

Find local accounting associations. Often cities will have accounting associations that can provide you will valuable leads.

Network. This should happen long before you move and the minute you pull into your first local gas station. Look for opportunities to meet with other accounting professionals so you can get those leads you’re looking for. Also be sure to tell your friends and family about your intentions; you’d be surprised at how many people know people in your dream city.

Once you figure out how to fund your job search, you can take the time you need to find the job of your dreams. Be sure to research local companies and hand-pick the employer you want to work for. And be patient; settling for a mediocre job may prevent you from the opportunities you would truly enjoy. Happy Hunting!

Come back next week to learn how to search for a job in cities outside your residence.

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