Seattle area job prospects for a possible career change (Vancouver: rentals, how much)

[bdlee73]

Sorry- another post on relocation and jobs.

I currently live in Boise and the job market is pretty lackluster and pay is well below average. Seattle is one are area I’m looking at due to the sheer volume of job opportunities. I work in corporate travel, so Expedia is definitely a company I am looking into. I’m also open to a career change since the travel business is a rather small industry. My worry, though, is how much luck would I have changing careers in Seattle? I don’t have an IT background, but am college educated (business) and a long work history.

I understand that Seattle is more expensive, crowded, and has other big city problems, but career prospects outweigh those issues. The potential career change is my only worry; I appreciate any advice and tips.

[allforcats]

Hi Bdlee. The Seattle area is a great place to live and work; the people, the climate, the air, and the jobs and housing/rentals markets are all enjoyable experiences, plus all the fabulous restaurants, outdoors activities, and beautiful places to go.

Here's a useful resource for an overview of job possibilities and the huge variety of industries here. It's the combined Classifieds of the two leading newspapers in a wide area around Seattle. You don't need to be an IT person at all to have a happy, successful career here.
Seattle area jobs, employment advice and information | NWjobs

Your degree and your work history will stand you in very good stead if you want to change careers. That's always a possibility here. But with the Chinese Olympics and the Vancouver Olympics on the horizon, and their possible impact on folks going to and from them through Seattle, you might want to consider staying in travel for a bit longer.

Have fun researching!

[jwb123]

I think the Seattle area is great if you are going there with job advancement in mind.

With many large employers in the area, you likely have a lot to research, besides just Expedia. IT guys travel too!

Remember that Seattle has a huge port, and so you may also consider cruise ship travel.

[bdlee73]

Thank you for the advice- while I'm still leaning towards Expedia, any advice on getting noticed with an Idaho address? Are the major Seattle area employers receptive to out of state applicants? I've dabbled with out of state job searches before and always mention my willingness to relocate, but never had any luck.

[jwb123]

Honestly, you will get better response if, in your cover letter, you note that you are relocating there anyway (give a date) and don't expect to be reiumbursed for relocation.

Otherwise, yes, people will likely look over your resume in the hopes of finding a good, local candidate.

[CityGirl72]

I heard a trick was to use an adress (like a friend's house) on your resume. To get a better leg in the door.

Seattle has been amazing for my career, but I really need a change in weather. So I'm trying to relocate right now

[jwb123]

I heard a trick was to use an adress (like a friend's house) on your resume.

... and then when they call you in for an interview tomorrow, they find out you have lied on your resume. And you can't start in two weeks, because you have to move and deal with all of what that entails. Not really a way to make a good first impression....

[Pittgal]

Just research the hell out of any move before you make it and remember that we all have different opinions on here. What is one persons good is another persons bad. Good Luck!

[ElektroDragon]

I was actually debating if it was a better idea to get a job first and move later so I get some relocation money, or move first, then get a job later. I can afford to move first and want to for other reasons as well. It sounds like you guys think that's the best course of action?

[Ira500]

Sometimes you just need to get the heck out of Dodge.