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Being Open to Relocation

As a non-native Minnesotan one thing that strikes me is how loyal and devoted Minnesotans are to this land of 10,000 lakes. Don’t get me wrong, this state, specifically the Twin Cities, has much to offer from boasting 20 of the Fortune 500 companies (3rd largest of any US metro) to an array of outdoor adventures appeasing any REI enthusiast. However, having grown up and spent most of my adult life on the west coast, I find this geographic devotion unusual. Many of the friends I grew up with have traveled outside of CA for work and accepted job transfers to other regions in the US. This readiness to relocate is not typical of Minnesotans and according to a recent Harvard Business Review article, this unwillingness to leave the MN tundra might not be the wisest decision, particularly if you are a recent graduate.

With an unemployment rate that is improving but still hovering around 9%, being open minded about location is pretty wise for a job seeker. The number of workers who relocated for work was at a record low in 2011 (11.2%), down from 20% in 1985. Yet 32% of companies say they would be willing to pay for relocation expenses for the right hire. So why the disconnect? There are several reasons why many Americans stay rooted ranging from fear of the unknown to family obligations.

As a job seeker, however, it’s smart to take a long look at what your priorities are and consider whether relocation will help you achieve your ultimate career goals. Rather than limiting yourself to a specific region take a look at what skills and opportunities you are looking to gain from a position. Then take your search national. There are many positions out there where you could gain the skills you need to get your to your 5, 10, and 20 year goals. Those positions may or may not be in the Twin Cities.

So branch out, explore all opportunities, and really evaluate what is most important to you career wise. Remember Minnesota will always be here and who knows you might end up finding another state feels like home just as much as our North Star State.

About Maggie Tomas

Website: https://blogs.stthomas.edu/careerlink/

Maggie Tomas is an Associate Director and Career Coach at the Carlson School of Management, University of Minnesota. Born and raised in Southern California, Maggie moved to the Twin Cities in 2010. Her background includes teaching and career counseling at the college level, namely at the University of St. Thomas, University of California Santa Barbara (UCSB), and Brooks Institute, a well-known film, photography, and design school where she served as Director of Career & Student Services. Maggie holds a BA in Liberal Studies and a MA in Psychology with an emphasis in Career Counseling and Professional Development. She is also a regular contributor to the Women of HR blog.