Next, you'll need to find resources. You'll have to make use of a broader range of electronic and print resources to target people and organizations at your destination. If your search is overseas, be aware that there are many excellent guidebooks for finding a job in other countries.
The final point to note is geography, which poses obvious logistical difficulties and not-so-obvious image problems. By image problems, we mean how seriously will an employer in another state or country take you? You must do everything you can to convey a commitment to relocating, so that the employers you contact will take you seriously. Avoid this phrase: "I'm looking into the possibility of moving to Chicago." If you're contacting companies in Chicago, then you'd better have already "looked into it" and decided you do want to live there. Instead, say, "I plan to relocate to Chicago ..." and, if possible, give a date you plan to be there.
Plan a trip to your desired location to interview before moving there. If finances and distance allow, schedule a week or two in the new location and try to arrange as many appointments as possible -- both real job interviews and exploratory or informational ones -- before going. For those people you can't get an answer from before departing, allow some open time in your itinerary to have an impromptu meeting once you're there. Unless they're extremely busy, few people in Atlanta will turn you down when you call and say, "I'm in town all the way from Portland, Oregon and would appreciate the chance to meet with you at your convenience during my ten-day stay." Even if there aren't any openings, you're likely to get a courtesy interview, which could lead to a job in the future, or at least a referral to another person to meet with.
|