Landing a job in a new location may be one of the most difficult things to do in this industry. Regardless of your reputation, work achievements, and education, local candidates generally have a leg up on anyone trying to relocate. It is just far easier to conduct interviews and it surely is less costly than moving someone across the country. Even so, there are a few things you can do to even the playing field and have a legitimate shot at landing that dream job.
Contact a Hotel Recruiter
Working with a reputable recruiter is going to be one of the first steps in this process. Recruiters are often tapped into job openings that are not even posted. Additionally, they will often offer some services to help make the job search a bit less difficult for you, such as resume writing assistance.
Set Your Game Plan
This could be a very long process, so make sure you know that going in. Knowing you want to relocate, employers may ask you to make some concessions. Bend where it is unimportant to you, but don’t make concessions that will make you unhappy after you accept the position.
You are also going to have to hone your skills for doing long-distance interviews. Practice using applications like Skype or Facetime, as most employers are going to want to see you when they are talking to you.
Last but not least, before even considering relocating, put enough money aside to pay for flying out for interviews and the relocation on your own. The less money a company has to put out, the more likely they are to seriously consider your application.
Be Honest
Get your availability timeline set before you start interviewing. If it is going to take you four weeks to move once the position has been accepted, be up front about it. Most employers will expect a longer transition if you are relocating, just keep it reasonable or you will risk losing out to a local candidate.
Whatever you do, do not pretend to be local because it will always come back to bite you. While it may knock you out of the running for some positions, be honest about your location.
Do Your Research
If you are going to move to a new location, you need to fully understand the city and what it offers. If you have never been there, it is highly recommended you make a visit before considering jobs in a certain city. Simply put, employers are less likely to hire someone if they think there is even a remote chance the new hire will regret making the move. Know the local restaurants and entertainment venues. You can even mention them during the interview to put the employer’s mind at ease that you truly know the area and understand exactly what you are getting into by moving there for a position.
Research should not be limited to the city. Spend some time researching the company itself so you are not relying on the interviewer to provide facts. Most companies today have social media profiles, so spend some time researching the company and the individuals you are likely to be working with if you are hired. This is actually true for any position, not just when relocating.
Are you considering a relocation position but are unsure how to get started? Did you know Joseph David International has one of the largest networks available as well as being regarded as one of the top hotel recruiting companies in the industry? We have been successfully placing managers in the hotel industry for more than a decade because we work hard to find the perfect fit for both parties. For more information about our placement services as well as to see opportunities currently available, click here.
Photo By NomadSoul1