Friend is moving into Texas on his own, how should he be prepared? (rent)

[ImYourRider]

Hi, I have a very good friend who I've known for a very long time, and he's moving into Texas (where I live).

He's on his own, and he pays $450 rent currently, and plans on paying the same here. So basically,
1.) How much should he save up before making the move?
2.) In what ways can I help him find a job (minimum/labor, ideally before moving here)
3.) Is there anything that we need to be careful about the move?

Appreciate any help : )

[RockyJoe817]

1.)
$450 Rent is low, he may need to look at a roommate situation.
It would be nice to have enough money to sustain you at least a
minimum of six months.

2.)
Have your friend sign up with a temporary job service(s),
search craigslist, job boards, register with Texas Workforce commission for
their job postings.
Check for any job fairs.
Gas station convenience stores
Waiter/Waitress
Dish Washer
Any type of temp job.
job boards at the local school(s) or university

Walk into each and every building on the business park and ask the receptionist or Human
Resource department if they have immediate positions.
If they do not hire on site then where do I apply?

Network!!! Network!!! Network!!!





Join a job support group usually given at most of the Churches
and also at the Texas workforce office.




3.)
Create and practice your 20 second introduction; something as follows:
(Note: remember to keep it short and simple)

"Hello... My name is _______, I have recently moved from _____ and I am in search
of an entry level position that would enhance my employment career.
My background skills include (A), (B), (C). Any assistance or information
you may give me in securing employment would be appreciated.

Thank You.



4.) Be frugal with your spending until you secure proper employment.


5.) Do not burn any bridges, your last job should be an honest good point of reference.

6.) Look on the internet for the free business cards, Make a business card with the name and address.
Create an updated Resume to be able to pass out to people, always give them two or more. One for them
and one for another hiring manager.

Good Luck

[First24]

$450/mo in DFW, be prepared for unsavory living conditions.

You should really have a job lined up prior to moving. If not, have at least 10K saved up.

[ImYourRider]

Thanks RockyJoe and Scout for the replies. RockyJoe, that's some great advice. I forgot that there's so many places to look for work here in DFW. So what are the odds of getting a temp job quickly here? I am an undergrad student so my only experience working in Tx has been with my university.

[ChristieP]

The unemployment rate goes up the less education the applicant has, so someone with just a HS diploma is facing a crowd of people applying for those hourly service jobs. He needs to be prepared to be out of work for a couple of months at the worst.
As someone else said, $450 rent will only get a tiny place in a bad neighborhood. Use Craigslist to find a roommate or something else.