| Q. For my next move, I am relocating to Greatville to | | | | unexpected barriers for someone with your |
| be near my family. I've been told to wait till I move | | | | background. |
| before job-hunting -- but I'm nervous about moving | | | | Mark had been teaching elementary school for fifteen |
| without a job. | | | | years -- but the school system wouldn't hire anyone |
| A. You are absolutely right to be nervous. Moving | | | | past entry level. Sally had been an award-winning |
| without a job gives you the thinnest identity of all. | | | | salesperson -- but employers devalued her |
| Banks and landlords like to see a number in the block | | | | experience because "we don't sell that way here." |
| marked "Salary." And socially you're identified by that | | | | 3. Before the movers finish unpacking, begin to |
| "What do you do" question. | | | | network aggressively. |
| 1. If you're entry level, you may have to move | | | | Daphne moved to a medium-sized town in the |
| without a job. But if you're senior, companies may | | | | southeast to be near an aging parent. She |
| conduct national searches to fill your position. They | | | | volunteered for the Chamber of Commerce, the local |
| may not give preference to local hires. | | | | symphony, the museum and more. Her contacts paid |
| 2. Before you start packing, identify what's available | | | | off: she landed a management position within two |
| by talking to people who actually live in the | | | | months. |
| community. Don't rely on stereotypes ("Oh they | | | | And while she moved without ajob, she was soon a |
| have everything there!). Sure, you may be moving to | | | | newcomerwith a job and a wonderful networkof |
| a big city, but the style of doing business may create | | | | resources. |