Tips for Relocating

Tips For the Relocating Spouse/Partner

When your spouse has to relocate for a job, it may leave you scrambling for employment. The key to success is to start looking immediately and to use as many resources as possible to make contacts.

• Prepare your resume as soon as you and your spouse have made the decision to relocate. Begin your job search right away, if possible.

• Check to see if your present employer has a facility in the new city. A transfer might be possible.

• Check with you spouse’s employer about any placement assistance that may be provided as part of your spouse’s relocation package.

• Talk about the move. Friends and family may have contacts.

• Become familiar with resources in the new city:

• Go to www.timesdispatch.com, our local paper, for classified job openings.
• Make an appointment with the personnel director of your spouse’s firm and ask for the names of search firms and employment agencies they use.
• Check with the state office for requirements if you are in a licensed or certified profession.
• Ask your real estate agent about new companies in the area.
• Register with employment agencies, temporary agencies, and executive recruiting agencies (temporary work will give you local references and access to in-house job postings).
• Contact local chapters of professional organizations.
• Join a business or service organizations for camaraderie and contacts.

• Notify potential employers that your relocation expenses are covered. You will then complete evenly with local applicants.

• Check local college placement offices for dates of job fairs and on campus interviews.

• Look at the total picture in the new city. A position with less compensation or title than your previous position may have more potential or a broader career path.