Ask Bob
Relocating from Canada
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Updated
Straight Stuff from the Other Side of the Bar
Move over Ann Landers and Miss Manners. Bartender Bob could care less about etiquette; he exists to pour drinks and dish answers to wayward PR folks who need a straight shot of truth.
Bartender Bob answers all career- and industry-related questions and does so with the bite of a drink laced with 151. His Italian, in-your-face responses may rub you the wrong way, but he means well.
Today's Question:
Bartender Bob: I want to relocate out of my province or maybe even out of the country (Canada to U.S.). What's your advice for job hunting from afar?
Signed,
Checking Out Of Canada
Dear Checking Out Of Canada
People frequently ask me how to get the hell out of Dodge. And I'm the King of quick exits. However, a relocation isn't a short-term goal or fix. It's a big step with big bucks attached. Given that I'm not a shrink, I won't ask your motivation -- I'll just assume you're tired of freezing your balls off.
To turn the heat up on your job hunt, I recommend getting the facts from a recent relocatee or Canadian Transplant. When Suzanne Lammers (IABC member) relocated from Canada to Kansas City, she relied on her husband's income while her green card was processed. Six months later, she landed a great communications job with a wireless carrier, thanks in part to her volunteerism in IABC.
It's always easier to work leads in the neighborhood, but since you don't have a hubby to support you, I recommend working the IABC or PRSA directory (provided you're a member -- no free rides in life, you know).
The beauty of a move is it opens the doors for many options that begin by striking up conversations with people in the area. Pick up the phone, Jack. Dial your fingers to the nub. Probe, listen, adjust, move.
Finally, never use a cheap rental car or moving company. You'll regret it in the end.
Bartender Bob