APPLYING TO AN OUT-OF-STATE JOB IS A LITTLE TRICKY. HERE'S A GUIDE ON ATTRACTING MORE INTERVIEWS FOR OUT-OF-STATE JOBS, AND GETTING MORE OFFERS AT THE END.
Finding a job in another state can expand the possibilities in your career. As long as you're moving or willing to move, it helps to look up jobs from a favorite company in other states. Alternatively, a predominantly or entirely remote position might mean that you can get an out-of-state job even more easily than an office job in your current city. Let's get into the key points about out-of-state jobs and how to apply for them.
STUDY THE JOB POSTING CAREFULLY
According to a study, about 44% of companies do not allow remote work. That means that your dream company might require you to live nearby before even applying. Jackie Werblo, head coach at Convex Leadership, says "If it states locals-only, use your cover letter to give the reason you should be considered with the locals. For example, you are returning home and have a residence in the area, after years living elsewhere."
When you upload a resume and start sending it to different companies, there's no reason not to go for a job for which you'd be perfect. The time and effort are relatively little for a chance to get an interview at your dream job. At the same time, you should also apply to job postings that clearly accept out-of-state applications.
DELETE THE ADDRESS AND BE CLEAR ABOUT MOVING
There are varying opinions about whether or not to put the name of the other city when applying from out-of-state. For some hiring managers, the sight of another city on the resume is enough to move on. Perhaps the most reliable option is a great cover letter that concisely and honestly explains your situation.
Even if the job is temporary, explaining your moving or new living situation concisely will help alleviate any doubts. All you need is a sentence or two about moving to the city where the job is taking place, and how conveniently and quickly you can start working. Then, you can leave the city and state off your attached resume, or use a line like "John Smith will be moving to Tallahassee, Florida, in February 2023."
HAVE A BUDGET AND PLAN
Out-of-state employees pose a few challenges to the average company. There might be increased costs to accommodate an employee moving to a new city. Their living situation might change, causing them to move back out or cancel their move, which would be inconvenient after already hiring them. Also, for an experienced professional moving to a city for opportunities, there's a potential that this employee might leave them for another job after a few months.
To resolve concerns like these, it helps to develop a budget and game plan you can show in your application and interviews. There are guides online about moving to different cities for work, which can often connect you to online networking opportunities.
Given the current state of the housing market, even for rentals, it's very important to speak with realtors and get a feel for where you could realistically live near a place of work. Make sure you can afford a place to live nearby, so you don't waste all the hard work you put in to get a job offer. That way, during a future job interview, you can give firm answers about moving details. If you answer any moving questions with a well-researched plan, the hiring managers will understand your commitment and the value you bring.
BUILD A NETWORK IN THE AREA AND USE IT
When you apply to a company's position in another state, you'll boost your chances if you can also produce references and positive referrals from other employers. However, if local employees of the company or professionals related to them have good things to say about you, that will help even more. Sometimes one phone call can skip entire stages of the interview process and position you for success.
Before you relocate, it helps to look through any connections you currently have and expand on them. If you're planning to move for work ahead of time, find communities of like-minded professionals online and start asking about the work and the industry there. You might want to try making time for a few local networking events in the new city, as well. Making the trip will show any new connections that you do plan on working and living there.
Single young professionals can often stand out well for out-of-state jobs, due to the simpler process of moving by themselves. Even for those moving with a family, you can find a great job in another state. You'll only have to prove that you are a low-risk, high-reward employee, wherever you work. If you follow these principles, you'll stand out in the crowd of other out-of-state job applicants and get an offer sooner.
