Questions to Ask Before Landing a Job in a New City

So, you're finished with your current job and want to a new position not only at a new company, but in a new city!

Where do you start your research for a new job?

Based on my own success landing a job in San Francisco (while living in Philadelphia), here are a few questions to ask/ research to make sure that you are making a well-educated decision.

Information gathering tactics

1. Subscribe to local industry newsletters.

2. Join networking groups via email, Facebook, and elsewhere.

3. Observe housing possibilities on Craigslist, Facebook, etc.

4. Reach out to your extended network.

Questions/ Research

1. Understand what type of job you are looking for.

   What do you like most about your current position? What do you like the least? In which direction would you like to advance your career? It’s important to understand your needs and motives before considering available job opportunities.

2. Is there an abundance of jobs in your field in your new city?

   This will protect you if the company ends up being a poor fit and you need to find a new job.

3. Who sponsors local industry events (networking, clubs, charities)?

   These are firms with money and resources to spare. It also shows that they care about the community.

4. What companies have won recent awards?

   These are firms who pursue excellence in design, mentoring, and self-promotion.

5. How would you commute to work?

   Is public transit convenient? Will you need a car?

6. What are potential neighborhood to live in? What are rent prices here?

   Use this information in your salary negotiations so that you can set aside a reasonable portion of your salary for housing costs.

7. What are typical salaries for your industry?

   For architects, reference the AIA Salary Calculator. Other fields may have similar tools or use Glassdoor.com for research.

8. Do you have any friends or friends of friends in the city?

   Ask them about the city's climate, professional scene, local bars, etc. If they currently live in the city, they will have helpful opinions and insights that can help you make a decision.

Once you complete your research, you'll be ready to apply for a job at a great company, negotiate a salary that helps you afford a sweet apartment, and then begin your new adventure!