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Searching for Jobs - Out of State
Hello FGB Job Seekers team! I am looking for some advice on job searching while living in another state.
As a recruiter myself, I understand hesitation from companies in proceeding with out-of-state candidates. Why wait for a candidate from out-of-state if you have a candidate down the street...right?! I have every intention of relocating (on my own dime!) to New York City, but would not like to do so until I have a job lined up. Quick side note - moving for family! When applying, you are asked for your current address which I fear might be disqualifying me early on in the process.
Has anyone ever searched for opportunities while out-of-state? Any advice would be appreciated!!
Lynne CoganCareer Coach for Realizing Professional Dreams
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06/10/20 at 5:17PM UTC
You do not need to get another phone with a NYC phone number. Google Voice provides free numbers with any area code. It can ring to any device with phone capabilities.
Additionally, you can use the address of someone in NYC or you can get a local address through a UPS Store or similar business.
The question is: Is it honest? That's something each person has to decide for her/himself. Another question: Will it be held against you if the company finds out? I suppose that depends on the company.
Anonymous
06/10/20 at 11:36PM UTC
Thanks for the tip about Google Voice!
To your point about honesty: Explain your situation (in this case, transitioning to NYC due to family reasons.)
Better to explain during the interview than not getting an interview at all.
From what I’ve seen, most companies will appreciate that the candidate has been enterprising and is preparing to move and establish a base in the area— shows that the candidate is being proactive.
Lynne CoganCareer Coach for Realizing Professional Dreams
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06/10/20 at 11:46PM UTC
I will keep that in mind. Thank you.
Lauren CastelluzzoA bicoastal creator of brand experiences
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06/10/20 at 3:45PM UTC
Hi! I am actually in a very similar boat, but have pleasantly found that recruiters have been more open to out of state candidates because it widens the pool and offers diversity. Some offer relocation packages, and others don’t (to your point about having existing talent nearby). I make sure to include both states on my resume and cover letter, and have been upfront in all conversations. I also find it helpful if you know someone or can network with someone at the company who can submit an employee referral. Good luck!
Anonymous
06/10/20 at 12:58PM UTC
My original job that I moved for and was cancelled due to COVID-19 was through a recruitment agency so it gave me some leeway when saying I was coming from out of state (TX - GA). When I was applying to different companies, I had borrowed a friend's address and later on explained my situation. Many thankfully didn't appear to have a problem with it. I also got an interview (that didn't amount to anything but hey, progress and practice!) at my dream company I moved to GA for. I agree with Belinda Rodman, it shows investment on your part and you want this thing. Maybe you have better insights from being a recruiter, but that was just my experience. Best of luck (also, just accepted another offer. I'm liking this working from home thing!)
Belinda Rodman25 yrs in Enterprise Software Leadership roles
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06/09/20 at 8:44PM UTC
Given that you are willing to relocate on your dime, shows an investment into your new employer. I'd be honest in the cover letter, and say you are interest in the position for x reasons, you are moving because of xyz, and you can seamlessly move and start in x days/weeks. That shows the personal and human side which companies are looking for these days. Good luck!
Nicole StaggClient Relations & Recruitment Strategist
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06/10/20 at 5:46PM UTC
Thanks Belinda - Love to hear this! I'll work on updating my cover letters to reflect my relocation efforts. Best wishes :)
Yojna VermaHighly focused, motivated, energetic individual
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06/09/20 at 2:59PM UTC
I would agree with A.N. It is better to put the address of a friend and make it seem that you are local when employers are looking at your resume without your presence. You can always mention your transition during your interview.
Jody RileyI am looking for something new in AP
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06/08/20 at 8:12PM UTC
I moved from Indiana to North Carolina. I contacted temp agency that also does permanent placement in the city that I wanted to move to. The were able to help on what companies would be good to look into and also sent me in for some jobs openings. I told was looking to relocate on my dime there and I was able to be able to come down with for a interview within a few days notice. The job that I took I was able to interview the companies temp agency and for my direct manger on the phone. I was giving the offer over the phone/email. I drove to the city to find housing and to meet everyone in person after I took the opening. I was able to have all of this happen with a little over a month. For me this was easier than I was tiring to get a company that was just a few cities from me to do interviews. I was at a associate level when I did this. I am gratefully for the company that gave me the opportunity to move to a new city that I now love it here. Now I am looking for new opportunity but I won't change it.
Clarice JenkinsSenior Accountant II in DC/Maryland
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06/14/20 at 5:46PM UTC
Hi Jody,
I just read your posting here and this information was very helpful. I never thought about contacting a temp agency to see if they have permanent placement in the city that I want to relocate too.
Nicole StaggClient Relations & Recruitment Strategist
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06/10/20 at 5:44PM UTC
Hi Jody -
Thanks so much for the idea. So happy to hear it worked out for you - especially at an associate level (gives me hope!). I will connect with a few permanent placement agencies in NYC.
Anonymous
06/08/20 at 5:43PM UTC
There are several strategies that I’ve heard of:
1. Acquire a mobile phone with an area code from the New York City metro area, and use this number on your resume. After all, you’ll be moving there.
2. With advance permission, use a New York area friend’s address on your resume. You can always list it as c/o (your friend’s name and address) if you want to be absolutely transparent. Explain to hiring managers that you are using your friend’s place as your New York base as you transition.
*3. Rent virtual office space in New York— this essentially gives you a New York mailing address. This solution is routinely used by businesses, but I see no reason that it can’t be applied to you.
If you want to be transparent, you can tell potential employers during the interview that you are in the midst of transitioning to NYC and using a temporary address for the moment.
Nicole StaggClient Relations & Recruitment Strategist
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06/10/20 at 5:15PM UTC
Great ideas!! I have actually never considered the virtual office space - awesome idea! Also reached out to my friend about using his address as well. Looking into a phone with a NY area code :) Thanks so much for your help - all awesome ideas.
