[scoutfinch87]

I hope this is the right place to ask this, but I'm a recent grad coming from Berkeley out on the west coast, but I'm trying to relocate to Connecticut (or anywhere in the New England area for that matter), and of course, I would like to find a job first before I relocate! However, I'm having a terrible time getting employers to even consider me because of where I'm located.

I've even let these employers know that I won't be requiring relocation assistance, and that my availability is one month. I'm still getting the "We'd like to interview you, but please give us a call when you move here" reply, and it's become rather frustrating. I'm wary about moving anywhere before I have a position in place. Any advice? I'm looking into entry level design positions - visual design/UI design/web/graphic design, and I have my portfolio all ready and everything! But I am having awful luck as an out-of-state applicant. Any advice? I'd really, really appreciate it.

[skytrekker]

Congrats on your graduation from UCal Berkeley- have visited the school many times over the years- one of my favorite places to 'wander' in the east bay. I know someone who graduated with a degree in architecture from the school who works now as an art dealer- originally from Salisbury CT- has a fabulous home there- lives half the year here, and about the other half in the San Francisco bay area.

On your dilemma; with your skills in New England- Fairfield county here in Connecticut would be the best place in CT- but also the Hartford area as well. Boston would be your best place outside of Fairfield county- Providence RI has the Rhode Island school of design- and might have a smaller demand then the other three locales. Southern coastal Maine is another location to consider, as well as Burlington Vermont.

Considering also the economy is slowing rapidly, many employers are holding back currently from making commitments to new hiring. You might have to make an exploratory trip here for a week and present your self 'in person' before any of these potential employers begin to consider making any kind of commitment.

Others on the forum can offer help- and keep returning and asking questions. Good luck and thanks for considering New England & Connecticut.

[JayCT]

Finding your first job is always the hardest. It takes a lot of time and I am not sure your field is the easiest to get a job in. You might consider trying to find a job where you to get expeience and then relocate. Another option would be to pick an area and try to visit it for an extend length of time to search for job. Good luck, Jay

[Roadismyhome]

Have you been able to speak to anyone in person? Or are you getting the HR department form letter? The HR department can be a definite barrier to entry; understandable as certainly any desirable company must deal with many applications each week.

Actually being able to speak to somebody for a few moments may help you immensely. If you have a contact on the inside, ie you know the hiring manager's name, you should give a call and ask to speak with that person directly.

Good luck! I will be in similar shoes in the near future.