Resume Tips for Applying to Out-of-State Jobs

The following post features Resume Tips for Applying to Out-of-State Jobs.

Have you ever wondered what changes to make to your Resume when applying to jobs out-of-state? Applying to jobs in another state adds a layer of complexity that is worth exploring.

Read: Benefits of Using a Letter of Recommendation (as a Job Seeker)

Related: Using Credentials After Your Name On a Resume

Before you hit send, there are a few considerations (and some specific obligations) worth thinking about to make sure your resume is truly ready for a relocation search.

Here’s what you need to know.

Overview

While not impossible, applying to a job in another state generally puts you at a disadvantage. Hiring managers naturally gravitate toward local candidates because the logistics are simpler.

Unlike local applicants who are viewed favorably, out-of-state candidates must go above and beyond. This is where small tweaks to your Resume can have a big impact.

By making targeted adjustments to your Resume, the goal is to prove that you are ready for the transition and that your move is a deliberate, well-planned choice.

Contact Information

One of the simplest and most effective ways to indicate your openness to relocation is by including a brief phrase in parentheses next to your city and zip code at the top of your Resume.

When choosing your phrasing, I recommend “open to relocation” or “actively seeking relocation” However, it’s best to avoid vague language like “may consider relocating” or “relocation possible”.

👉 Contact Information Examples

• Chicago, IL 60606 (open to relocation)
• Austin, TX 73301 (actively seeking relocation)

Career Profile

In addition to tweaking the contact information, your Resume’s career profile (aka executive summary) is prime real estate for capturing attention and communicating your message.

Keep this callout short and confident. Avoid overexplaining or apologizing for not being local. Instead, treat your relocation goal as a natural part of your career progression.

👉 Career Profile Examples:

• Marketing analyst with experience supporting national brands, actively pursuing relocation opportunities in the Southeast.
• Project manager with five years of experience leading cross-functional initiatives and planning a transition to the Boston area.
• Registered nurse with acute care experience, preparing for a permanent relocation to the Charlotte metropolitan area.

Cover Letter

Adding a note into your Cover Letter is one of the best places to include relocation information.

Whether you’re moving to be closer to family, following a spouse or partner, or pursuing a lifestyle change, your Cover Letter gives you the space to tell that story.

Sharing the context behind your situation is key. For example, if you’re applying to a Node.js development company, you can highlight how your move aligns with your career goals in IT.

It’s wise to state clearly if you are covering your own moving costs or require assistance. You should also provide a definitive timeline and to remove any logistical uncertainty.

👉 Cover Letter Examples:

• I am planning a relocation to Nashville this fall and am fully prepared to cover my own moving costs. I am available for virtual interviews at your convenience and can travel in person if needed.
• I am returning to the Chicago area to be closer to family and have already secured housing for a July 1st move. I am available for immediate interviews and am prepared to begin work as soon as my transition is complete.

Be Cautious with Address Workarounds

You might be wondering if it is better to remove your address from your Resume entirely to avoid being filtered out. While it is tempting to hide your location, this strategy often backfires.

When a recruiter sees a Resume with no city or state, it’s uncommon. As a result, they may interpret your approach as being evasive or trying to hide a potential problem.

You’re usually better off being transparent about where you live and that you are seeking relocation. Honesty builds trust and says you are a serious candidate with a deliberate plan.

By being upfront, you eliminate the guesswork and allow the recruiter to focus on your qualifications instead of wondering what you are trying to hide.

In Conclusion

In conclusion, I hope this article helps you understand how to tweak your Resume when applying to out-of-state jobs. While there isn’t necessarily one right answer, there are several options to consider when communicating the unique details of your situation. 

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