SIX TIPS FOR RELOCATING JOB SEEKERS

1. Be Focused
As the job market continues to become more specialized, employers are looking less for generalists and more for individuals who know what they want and have prepared for a career in a specific field. Employers tend to hire people with specific industry experience and education that is directly related to the position.

The employer is taking a risk by agreeing to hire someone who is not local. This is especially the case with international relocation, when the employer has spent a lot of time and effort on paperwork for the work permit. An employee who has relocated usually does not have local ties and may decide to leave if they are not prepared for the new job. An employer will be more willing to take this risk if you can demonstrate a commitment to their field.

In order to focus and be prepared for your job search, you should take a careful inventory of your skills, interests, lifestyle considerations, values, and work environment. This way you cannot only show the employer how you can contribute to the company, but also show that how you can adapt to your new location.

2. Research Your Destination
Work considerations should be balanced with life considerations. You may consider factors such as the job market, local industries, climate, cost of living and lifestyle.

For example, you may have worked in a particular industry, so you need to know if this industry is healthy or large enough to warrant an abundance of opportunities in the new location. You may be interested in particular leisure activities, and require access your favourite pastimes. You can research any city by searching the Internet, by contacting the local city government or tourism authorities, or by ordering the Relocation Information.

3. Research the Job Market
Gather information by researching a variety of sources: trade publications, journals, professional associations, and electronic bulletin boards. Or have us conduct research for you by discussing your qualifications with local employers. The Employability Report provides you with valuable information on the local market for your individual skills, , and provides you with the facts required to make an informed decision on your job search strategy.

4. Build Your North American Resume
In most cases, a US or Canadian resume is different from the format utilized overseas. It is necessary to ensure that your resume conforms to the local employers’ expectations. Our job search services include the revision of your resume into US or Canadian market-effective format. With our assistance you will be able to present your employment objective clearly and communicate your most marketable skills

5. Network in Advance
According to employment statistics, the average time for a job search is three months. The sooner you begin your job search, the sooner you will be able to relocate and earn an income. Relocation often involves obtaining a job offer in advance, so that a work permit can be obtained. While it is possible to find employment by applying to advertised positions, this can be a long and arduous process, because only 25% of the job market is advertised. Most employment is found through networking. We have been successful in assisting clients with their relocation by helping them network in advance, either by arranging interviews for them in advance of arrival on the Full Service Job Search Program or by providing them with suitable employer contacts on the Self Directed Job Search Program.

6. Send a Thank You Note
In the USA and Canada, job seekers are counseled to send thank-you notes to their interviewers. The idea is to get others to like you so they will hire you directly or refer you to their friends and acquaintances. The sooner you build good relationships, the sooner you'll be hired, and the words "thank you" create good will. Send warm thanks to everyone who gives you any kind of help in the job search, however small.