Tips for Maximizing Your Out-of-State Resume

Trying to acquire a job out of state can be a bit more challenging than securing one in the state you’re in, simply because you are lacking certain advantages of in-state candidates.  So it will be up to you to show in your resume that being out of state is not a hindrance.  Here’s how you can get started.

Show That Relocating Isn’t a Problem

One concern that a hiring manager might have regarding your applying for a job while out of state is that relocating could be a challenge.  It’s a great idea to address this head on by noting on your resume that you’re ready to relocate.  Also, in your cover letter, you can reiterate this and mention that you’re open to interviewing at any time in any location.

Prove You Can Adapt to the Area as Necessary

Another concern an employer could have is that you might be unable to quickly adapt to the area to which you’d be moving.  This is especially important if you will need to build local clientele for the company.  Even if the concern isn’t listed in the job posting, it’s good for you to show that you have a proven track record of hitting the ground running in all of the jobs you’ve worked—no matter where they were located.

If the company needs to know that you can build connections, then mention in your resume that you’ve done so already.  Show that you already have an expansive Rolodex and are eager to make new connections.

Make Your Out-of-State Perspective Intriguing

The fact that you’re out of state doesn’t have to be a hindrance.  In fact, being from out of the area can bring a new and fresh perspective to the company, so be sure to sound “alive” in your resume.  Show that you’re eager to get started in a new environment and bring unique ideas to the table that you’ve acquired thanks to your current environment.  Without directly saying that being foreign to the area is better, you can still be intriguing enough to encourage them to want to know more about you.

Of course, you want to cover the basics when writing your resume, including adding plenty of industry-related keywords, creating a great job target and career summary, and making sure there are absolutely no typos.  But taking the extra step to show that your out-of-state status isn’t a hindrance could make your resume stand out against your competition.

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