How Relocating for a Technology Job Is Good for Your Career
July 26th, 2018 — Revature
The technology consulting life isn’t for everyone. It requires an exceptional work ethic, an aptitude for soft skills and a gift for problem-solving. For many college graduates looking for technology jobs, it often requires something else … a willingness to relocate.
If you’re willing to move, technology jobs for skilled workers are plentiful. There are far more jobs overall than qualified workers to fill them, but to find them, you might have to live somewhere you never thought about before. For some, the prospect of moving to an unfamiliar town causes anxiety. But if you’re willing to step out of your comfort zone, there are distinct benefits to relocating for a job.
Moving Means More Opportunities
If you limit your job search to a handful of cities, you’re missing out on potential opportunities that could boost your long-term career. In effect, you’ve decided to compete for a smaller number of jobs with a limited number of companies instead of exploring many possibilities with a greater number of employers. You may end up living somewhere you thought would be great, but with a job that’s not exactly right for you or your career.
Build a Widespread Network
Relocation offers the chance to build close, personal relationships with people you wouldn’t otherwise have met. In other words, it’s an opportunity to expand the geographic footprint of your social networks. Let’s say you live in Washington, D.C. and you take a technology job in Orlando. A few years later, you relocate to San Jose. Now you have peer connections around the country, people who will always be there to help you along your career trajectory.
Build Resiliency, Learn to Adapt
A willingness to relocate shows commitment to continuous personal improvement. Moving to a new town where you don’t know anyone is a chance to test yourself. Finding a place to live, getting to know the neighborhood, making new friends and generally integrating into the community are activities that translate directly into valuable career skills. The ability to adapt to ambiguous circumstance and problem-solve a way forward are traits that employers value highly.
Conclusion
Before refusing a job proposal because it sounds intimidating, think for a moment and evaluate all the pros of relocation. Exploring a larger job market and building a professional network can be an investment for your entire career.