How to Search for a Job in Another State

Living in one state and searching for a job in another can often seem like a daunting task. It is frequently a question of the chicken or the egg - which came first? Should you move first and then look for a job or secure a job and then move? Many job recruiters will tell you to move first and then look for a job. There are, however, ways to secure a job first and then move.

Use local job search sites. First, you have to find an out-of-state job for which you want to apply. To do that, search for local job boards and newspapers.

Take your address off your resume. Those hiring for positions often move out-of-state applicants to the bottom of the pile or dispose of their resumes entirely. Taking your out-of-state address off your resume will improve your chances of landing an interview. If you absolutely must provide an address, use the local address of any friends or family you may have in that state.

List a cell, not home, phone number on your resume. Again, prospective employers are often weary of out-of-state applicants. Not having a home phone number with an out-of-state area code on your resume will help improve your chances. Instead, use only a cell phone number on your resume. It is common for individuals to move and not change their cell phone number, so recruiters will not think twice about an out-of-state cell phone number.

Set up an interview. Once you've successfully submitted your resume for that out-of-state job, how do you respond when a prospective employer wants you to come in for an interview? This is the point at which you gently reveal that while you have definite plans to move to that area, you do not currently live there. If they want to set up an in-person interview, ask if a phone interview would be acceptable. More often than not, for first interviews at least, recruiters are fine with conducting a phone interview instead.

Be prepared to pay for travel expenses. While a phone interview may be fine for a first interview, you will inevitably have to do an in-person interview at some point. Some employers will pay to fly you out for an interview, but that is not always the case. Thus, it is a good idea to set aside some money and be prepared to pay your own way.

Travel wisely. Whether travel for an in-person interview is paid by the employer or yourself, make the best of the time you have in that state. Use your time there to take a good look at the area and do some housing hunting. If you are paying out-of-pocket for your travel, try and schedule multiple interviews during your time there.

Searching for a job in one state while living in another is never easy. With some preparation, though, and by using the above tips, you can successfully land that out-of-state position.