The StartWire team spends all day answering questions from our users via Twitter, Facebook, our blog and the many emails we receive. We’ve decided to share our advice with everyone, by posting some of our replies here on the blog! Here’s a question from Frederick, sent to us via Facebook message:

I just moved to Denver with my family. I’m finding it hard to find just the right job for me.

Moving to a new city can make job search difficult. Your career network is likely in your old city, and if that city is far away, you may find yourself feeling a bit lost.

The best way to find job openings and get hired (because that’s the important part!) is through a network. So one of the most important things to do in a new city is to meet new people, and work on developing a new network. This isn’t just good for your job search; it’s a great way to get settled into a new place!

How can you do this? 

Reach out to anyone you already know who may have connections in the area and let them know about your arrival. Send a short, professional email to people that you know well enough to recommend you. Let them know you’re moving (or have moved) to their city and are looking to get settled and find work.

Don’t know anyone in the area? Consider joining a job club. These are a great resource for finding out about job openings, and other career training opportunities. There are even niche ones for people working in specific industries. Search for what’s available in your area and get out there! You can find a list of job clubs across the U.S. here: http://www.job-hunt.org/job-search-networking/job-search-networking.shtml.

While you’re building your network, focus on applying to recently posted jobs, which you meet about 70% of the criteria for. Persistence is an important trait in a difficult job search. Don’t give up, just keep finding openings, applying and building your network. Hard work pays off!