Image by MattC. via Flickr

One should think twice before relocating without first having a job, especially when planning to move long distance. Due to the unemployment rate that is expected to remain between 9 and 10 percent this year, it will be very difficult, if at all to find a job. It is important to do all of the research that you can to making every attempt to have a position lined up before you make your move. Nationwide Relocation Services consumer reports department wants to let you know that it is okay to take your time to do the right thing.

You Have Options
Although you are moving to another state, it does not mean that you cannot start looking for a job from the comfort of your current home. The possibility of relocating within the current company that you are currently working for would be ideal. However, that is not always an option because, not every company is large enough to offer interstate company transfers. Don’t fret; there are many different ways that you are able to search and apply for employment within the area that you are planning to move to without physically being there.

Your Network Could Get You Back to Work
Networking is the key when completing any job search. If you are relocating to a state where you have friends and/or family it would be a great idea to give them a “heads up.” Let them know when you will be there and that you are in need of a job. You never know, they may know of a company that is hiring and can be the reference you need to get in the door. Although, this idea may seem like the best one yet, you do have more options. A few of them are:

• To contact the state’s unemployment office for current listings.
• To apply to the open positions for which you find on the web, via email or fax.
• To search opportunities online within companies close to your new home and apply.
• To create a profile and post a resume on job search sites (Monster, HotJobs, CareerBuilder).

Ready – Set – Wait
In your mind, you are ready to pack up and get out of town. You have your place all picked out, you may have done your research on moving companies. They have great rates, availability and promise that you won’t be ripped off. However, you are doing the right thing. You need a job first and that may take time. Good things definitely come to those who wait. Better things come to those who wait responsibly.

Although mentally you are ready to move out of state, wouldn’t it be nice to know that you had a job to pay the bills once you get there? What are some creative networking ideas that you would like to share? Let us know on Facebook.