Job seekers around the country know how many hoops they have to jump through just to get noticed. It's what has led many of those same job seekers to take their search on the road. Many are now open to relocation, chasing the elusive employment opportunity that might be out of state.
However, even elsewhere, a job seeker needs to make a positive impression on hiring managers and companies to stand a chance against local competition. Fifteen contributors to Forbes Coaches Council delve into how job seekers can make an impression on out-of-state hirers, and how these steps will help them land the job they're looking for.
1. Show Commitment To Relocation
Many candidates can end up frustrating employers if they make it to final round interviews and only then change their mind about relocating. So, the job seeker in this case needs to show an unwavering commitment to relocating. Job seekers should often mention what they perceive as the benefits of the move so as to not make the employer second-guess their commitment and seriousness about moving. - Mark Gasche, North Shore Career Management LLC
2. Do Your Homework
A right fit candidate is typically the most competent and the least risky hire. Thoroughly research the location, explaining in detail why now is a good time to relocate. Describe how this location fits into your life, whether you are joining other family members that reside there, better schools for kids or other attributes that are meaningful to you for the long term. Be honest and authentic. - Debbie Ince, Executive Talent Finders, Inc
3. Be Authentic And Add Value
Be certain they know the reality of your relocation timeline, while making it ultra clear that you are the right candidate, through the power of your authentic follow-up and follow-through. So many folks play the "wait and see" game. Add value through regular, yet purposeful outreaches to the main contact, with upbeat and optimistic energy. That energy lands every time, even through email. - Dena Breslin, DenaB Coaching
4. Display Confidence And Certainty
Having hired over 1,000 staff in my career, I was always looking for those with confidence and certainty. When I ask "why should I hire you?" the right answer is "because I'm certain I can do the job," all based on something you can prove—your experience, your training, a perfect cultural fit with the company or an MBTI type or DISC style that matches the job description. - Steven Pfrenzinger, Self-Awareness Coach to Entrepreneurs
5. Show A Genuine Interest
It doesn't matter where you go when seeking employment these days—all employers, despite location, are looking for certain things from an employee. The first on that list is a "genuine interest" in the success of their employer. If you want to stand out, demonstrate a genuine interest in helping the company you work for meet and exceed its objectives. Don't just work there for a paycheck. - Roger Doumanian, The Roger Doumanian Corporation
6. Adapt And Thrive
Especially if a new role requires relocation, it is helpful to highlight past examples of successful adaptation amid great change. By illustrating your leadership and creativity in these times, you demonstrate a tolerance (or even an excitement!) for ambiguity and alert hiring managers to your ability to thrive in new environments. - Marnie Mclain, Marnie Mclain Coaching
7. Do Your Best To Stand Out
Especially when the competition for an open position is high, you don't stand out from the ocean of the many small applicant islands if you do the same thing as everyone else. The biggest pain for HR is preselection. Help HR so that they can get to know you quickly and effectively. For example, send an applicant video of yourself showing in 60 seconds what your added value is for the company. - Michael Thiemann, Strategy-Lab™
8. Bring Fresh Views And Insights
I often deal with clients who move countries or even continents. If you are changing geographies, it is very important to start building your local network in advance of the move. Also, target forward-thinking companies who can appreciate that you will be bringing fresh insights and ideas unique to your geographical and cultural background and leverage them. - Jelena Radonjic, WhatWork Career Coaching Ltd
9. Be Clear And Transparent About Intentions
In your resume and job interview, explain your relocation plans. Be specific on where you plan to move, when and why you are moving there. Do not appear desperate for a job because hiring managers will be concerned that the only reason you are interested in their job is for a relocation ticket. Explain that you are moving to that area and this potential employer is lucky you are! - Dan Hawkins, Summit Leadership Partners
10. Lead With Value And Your Expertise
The key is to act quickly by starting right away with your new job search. As you reach out to your connections and hiring managers, lead with the value and expertise. Make your expertise and knowledge evident, relevant and easy to spot and hard to resist. Lastly, you will save everyone time by applying and considering jobs that you truly qualify for that match your skill set. Game on, champions! - Izabela Lundberg, Legacy Leaders Institute
11. Use A Local Google Voice Account
Live in Chicago, but want to work in Miami? Use Google Voice to get a free local phone number. If you have family in the area, ask to use their address. Putting these local variables on your resume will not only send a message to the recipient that you appear local, but will help you show up in local recruiter database search criteria. - Scott Singer, Insider Career Strategies
12. Rethink Your Resume
The most practical advice I give job seekers is to forgo the traditional resume. Instead, prepare a personal biographical summary by replacing oddly written third-person language with first-person descriptions of why you want to relocate, why you targeted their company and, most importantly, your proudest accomplishments. Hiring managers are tired of boring resumes—this will help you stand out. - Cheryl Czach, Cheryl Czach Coaching and Consulting, LLC
13. Know The Culture
Know the culture! Familiarize yourself with the culture and customs of the area you will relocate to. Get recommendations from locals and colleagues within the company. Learn about the culture of the company you want to work for. Get an idea of the values and expected behavior. Brand your executive presence with your authentic personality and with wise leadership as a role model. - Cristian Hofmann, Empowering Executives | SUPERGROUP LTD
14. Future-Proof Their Return On Investment
When companies try to cut costs nowadays, they have to carefully evaluate any new hire that incurs extra costs like relocation expenses. So future-proof your return on investment by not only showing them you are a great fit, but by also demonstrating some specific potential impact you and only you can bring, as well as your intention to commit to the company’s success with certain evidence. - Amy Nguyen, Happiness Infinity LLC
15. Reach Out To People In The Community
Relocating does not have to make your job search more difficult. If you're not a local, still search as if you were. Reach out to people in your target role at your target companies, requesting informational interviews (networking conversations) via video. If things go well, consider asking for a connection to the hiring manager or tips on your application. - Kyle Cromer Elliott, MPA, CHES, CaffeinatedKyle.com
