Los Angeles, California has been a place of aspiration and admiration for decades, and 2020 is no different. If you're moving to LA, you need to get a clear plan in place to reach your lofty goals.
Our career experts are here to help! We’ve compiled 5 tips and plenty of resources to kick off your Los Angeles job search.
1. Look for top Los Angeles companies in your industry
You’ll find the greatest job search success if you start with clear goals including the specific companies you would like to work for. Make a list of LA-based companies that have a mission, product, or service you support.
2. Check local job listings online
In addition to top job search sites, you should look for local job boards. These websites might include jobs in the City of Angels that bigger aggregates don’t have.
Don’t make applying to jobs online your only job search strategy! This brings us to the next tip.
3. Find recruiting and headhunting firms in Los Angeles
Recruiters and headhunters seek to place top talent with companies. While you can’t hire a recruiter to find you a job, you shouldn’t overlook the value a professional talent placement firm can play in your hunt for a new job.
Start with our advice for working with a recruiter:
4. Write a great cover letter for your Los Angeles move
It can be a good idea to mention your relocation on a cover letter as part of what makes you a great candidate. Take notes on what a good cover letter looks like in 2020 and make sure you tick these boxes:
Short and direct
Highlights your qualifications (without regurgitating your resume)
Demonstrates your value with examples and numbers
Tailored–preferably addressed to the hiring manager
Employer-focused
Job openings receive around 250 applications on average. Cover letters are one of the most effective ways to stand out!
5. Research local Los Angeles resume writing services
Moving takes up a lot of time and energy, so it’s perfectly fine to hire a professional to do the heavy lifting for you on your resume! Professional resume writers are trained on current best practices, industry keywords, and the effective content you need to land an interview.
Make sure you’re collaborating with your resume writer in between packing up your shorts and sunglasses. Even the most experienced resume writers will need to learn more about your experience and qualifications before delivering a final draft!
Summary
Looking for a job and moving at the same time is hard work! These tips will help you manage your job search so you can focus on getting settled into a new city.
Are you looking for a job and relocating to Southern California? Share your Los Angeles job search tips in the comments!
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Written by
Caitlin Proctor, CPRW, Certified Professional Résumé Writer
Caitlin joined the ZipJob team in 2019 as a professional resume writer and career advisor. She specializes in strategic advice for executives, career pivots, and remote workers. Read more resume advice from Caitlin on ZipJob’s blog.
