How to Find a Long-Distance Job and Relocate Successfully

Published: March 15, 2023

Finding a job in a new state or country can be a daunting task, but it is not impossible. The internet has made it easier for job seekers to access global job markets. However, landing the job can still be challenging, especially when companies are tightening their belts and trying to avoid the expense of relocation. So how can you establish your credentials upfront without bringing attention to your current location?

Establish Your Credentials Upfront

“The antidote, from the applicant standpoint, is to have a resume with no city name for location to start with and then to say that relocation is not a problem,” says Dilip Saraf, career coach and author of “The 7 Keys to a Dream Job.” Once you establish your value in the first interview and subsequent rounds, you can always broach this subject. How differentiated you are in your value proposition as you navigate through the recruitment process is what this is about.

Where to Look

Specialized sites like Indeed.com are a good starting point when looking for a long-distance job. It is a one-stop search engine that shows nationwide job listings from thousands of sites. “That lets you quickly assess how big the market is in a location,” says Saraf. If the jobs are scarce, then you need to think of other strategies.

Networking

The next step is to contact people for advice or leads. If you belong to a professional association, for example, look for members in your desired destination and tell them you want to relocate to the area. “People generally will help you, all you need to do is ask,” says Saraf. Linkedin, a social networking site for professionals, can be a valuable resource. “It definitely helps to network,” says Saraf. “But I always tell my clients to develop these connections while they have a job and are doing well. Don’t dig a well when you’re thirsty.”

Conducting a Thorough Investigation

Although actually traveling to your desired destination is a logical step, avoid traveling before sizing up the market or choosing the companies you’d like to work for. “Going there prematurely can be a waste of time and resources,” says Saraf. Look at companies that are well recognized, such as Fortune 100 companies, AARP-ranked firms, etc. Once you find the target employer, conduct a thorough investigation. Look at recent and archived news clips, find out what business cycle the company’s in, and who the competitors are. Figure out what qualities you can bring to the table.

Broaching Relocation

If you land an interview, don’t mention relocation allowances early on. “I tell my clients not to disclose their city at the top of the resume. If you make [relocation] an issue early on, it’s a turn-off,” says Saraf. In the last five years, he adds, companies have been less forthcoming about relocation packages. If they can avoid that expense, they will. That doesn’t mean you should not discuss the subject. If you’re perceived as valuable to the company, they’ll be willing to negotiate.

Assessing the Cost of a Move

Even though you should not dismiss an offer because of tightfisted relocation policies (unless you’re moving across the globe), be careful when assessing the cost of a move and the cost of living at the new destination.

Finding a long-distance job and relocating successfully requires strategy, patience, and flexibility. With the help of specialized sites, networking, conducting thorough investigations, and smart negotiations, you can increase your chances of landing your dream job and making a smooth transition to your new home. Consider UNITS Moving and Portable Storage of Phoenix to help your move run smoother.