Finding a job can be difficult at the best of times – add a relocation into the mix, and it becomes even more challenging. In addition to all the usual tasks that come along with job searching, you have to consider networking, travel arrangements, finding new housing and more.
To help, here are some key steps that will guide you in planning and executing your long-distance job search.
Do Your Research
Moving to a new city or region for work is a big commitment, so it’s important to research everything thoroughly beforehand.
Key considerations include:
- Which city/region is right for you?
- If you will relocate your family with you, how will the move affect them? What schools are available locally?
- Where will you live and how will you get to work?
- What roles are available in that city or region, and what are you looking for?
- What is the cost of living there and will the job you want pay enough to cover it?
- Is the job, company and industry stable, and is there a lot of competition for roles?
- Should you get help from a recruitment agency for your job search?
Additionally, one of the most important things to research is the cost of the move itself to ensure you budget correctly. Think about everything related to relocating that could be an expense, from renting/buying a home to moving your belongings. You should also ensure you have extra funds set aside for emergencies, as well as money for travel costs if you are required to attend face-to-face interviews.
Use Your Network
When looking for a job in a new city, having connections there already can give you a significant advantage. Do you have any friends, family or professional contacts living and working in the region who could help you get a foot in the door to opportunities? This is particularly important when job searching remotely, as hiring a candidate who must relocate for the role involves a certain amount of risk on the part of the employer, and a referral from a mutual connection can help to give them confidence.
Try to meet as many people as you can to build your network in the new city (professional organisations and industry events are great places to start), and ask your contacts to introduce you to their local friends and colleagues as well.
Make Yourself Available for Interviews
Although many businesses use phone interviews and video interviews in their hiring processes, most employers will still want to meet their potential new employee in person during the final stages of the hiring process, so you’ll need to plan for this.
Many businesses have a tight timeframe in which to fill a role and will not be able to delay for long, so being unable to attend an interview could mean missing out on the opportunity. Ensure you make your availability known to employers ahead of time, and try to be as flexible as possible when invited to attend a job interview in a different city. This will highlight your genuine interest in the role, as well as your time management and organisational skills. It’s also a good idea to research the best modes of transportation (and if necessary, accommodation) in advance so you’re prepared to travel when you need to.
Keep Your Options Open
If you are committed to relocating to a particular place or can’t wait to move, being open to a range of options, not just permanent full-time roles, will increase your chances of success. A temporary or contract role can be a great way to gain experience, build your network and buy time to line up your next step. Likewise, consider roles that may not be your perfect fit, but have the potential to lead to new opportunities later down the track.
Summary
Job hunting in another city or region can be a daunting experience, but by planning carefully and putting in the extra effort, you’ll be packing your bags and settling into a new job in no time!
Ready to find your next role? As New Zealand’s leading industrial recruitment agency with 16 local branches, we regularly place candidates into roles across the country. Whether you’re looking to relocate to Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch – or if you’re heading to a smaller town for a change of pace – we can help you find the right temporary or permanent job opportunity for you needs. To discuss your options, feel free to get in touch.
