LONG DISTANCE NETWORKING GUIDELINES

 

1.      Define the target city or cities. If you know someone there, perhaps you could use his or her address and phone number for local contact.

 

2.      Establish a free online email address for your job search online communication that can be accessed from anywhere.

 

3.      Focus your research online on targeted companies in your new areas. Check with the local Chamber of Commerce Directory of Businesses and Industries. Local newspapers often have classified ads and stories online. Yellow Pages can be accessed on line as well.

 

4.      Network with friends and acquaintances in that area to expand your network contact list and contact them after you have prepared through research and compiling a list of questions.

 

5.      Collect data about and from the targeted area. Along with #4, compile a letter of introduction that announces your intentions to relocate and includes specific marketing plan information such as targeted companies. Try locating common interest organizations that you might want to network into or visit (religious, professional, alumni, etc)

 

6.      Send a resume with a cover letter of introduction to appropriate recruiters and agencies in your target city.

 

7.      Do specific research with companies that interest you and you may want to send a resume and introductory letter to contact names at those businesses.

 

8.      Check online bulletin boards and post a message to build possible network contacts in the area.

 

9.      Contact the mayor’s office, economic development office, and/or the governor’s office for lists of potential companies.

 

10.  Contact specific business groups and professional organizations in your target city.

 

11.  Collect data and schedule appointments or interviews for the time you will be visiting the city. Spend time in the target city. Extend your network. Schedule meetings with as many hiring managers as possible. Try “I’m only in town for a few days.”

 

12.  Be sure to set up your files and organize your data for each city. Be sure it is a city you will enjoy during your other-than-work time.