How to Expand Your Job Search Nationwide

Guest Post By: Heather Eager

Are you looking for a job but just aren’t having too much luck getting what you want in the area that you’re living in? You may want to consider expanding your job search beyond your city.

Of course, before doing so, you’d have to determine that moving is something that both you and your family could handle. But if you think a move could increase your chances of being hired in your field then it’s a good idea to go ahead and expand your search. Here are some ways to get this done…

Conduct Industry Research

When you’re first looking to expand your job search, it’s a good idea to look at areas that appear to be showing growth for you field. If you’re working in an industrial field, you may not want to focus your attention on an artsy city. So before getting started, it’s good to determine where you see growth and where you don’t so you don’t waste valuable time and resources on places that won’t help you get the job you want.

Use National Job Boards

There are plenty of great sites out there that allow you to search for jobs both in your area or other areas around the country. Whether you’re posting your resume to Monster, Career Builder or even Craigslist, there are plenty of opportunities to have your resume seen by a wide audience.

Join Social Networks

Experts cannot stress enough how important it is to utilize social networks like Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn when conducting a job search that expands nationwide. You can join networks for various cities you’d like to consider for jobs, join company networks or just interact with former coworkers who may be able to give you leads in new areas.

The point is that social networking is a great way to get your name in front of the eyes of recruiters from around the country. So if you’re looking to expand your search, joining a social network is a great route to take.

Call Companies

Another route to consider is calling a company directly that you’re interested in working for and seeing if their human resources department knows of any positions opening up, no matter where they are in the country. You may also be able to find this information on the company’s website, but by calling the company directly, you may be able to get your hands on a multitude of information that you could not otherwise find on the website.

Keep an Open Mind

While you’re thinking about expanding your job search beyond the city you’re in, you probably have an idea of a few places that you don’t want to work. However, if you’re really looking for work then it’s a good idea to open your mind to any possibilities available.

In this challenging economy where nearly 10 percent of the population is still unemployed, it’s important to widen your perspective when conducting a job search. So if you have already considered expanding to a nationwide job search, good for you. And if you haven’t, it’s time to start considering that possibility.