Are you ready to hop on a plane and start afresh? If you’re willing to move for a new job, that could be a huge advantage. You can open up new opportunities in faraway places that would have previously been off-limits However, before you can do that, you need to convince the hiring manager that you are serious about the move. In this guide, we will be covering:
- Whether you should list that you’re willing to relocate on your resume
- How to write a simple relocation resume (+ examples)
- Advice on how to show that you’re willing to relocate soon.
Should I put ‘willing to relocate’ on my resume?
The short answer is yes. If you are looking for a new job and you are willing to relocate, that is something that you want to shout about. Let’s take a look at the main reasons it matters:
- Employers can’t read your mind. When a potential employer views your resume, they will take it at face value. So, if you’re located somewhere they are not, they may wonder why you are applying. Make it clear from the offset that you’re willing to relocate.
- It shows dedication to your career. Are you putting your career first? If you are willing to pack up and move across the country, it’s a safe bet that you are.
- Some careers demand it! In certain professions—such as logistics and consulting—you will need to move regularly. You could find yourself spending months at a time at a new location. Let the hiring manager know that you are prepared for that change.
Fewer Americans are willing to relocate for work than ever!
Relocating for work used to be common. However, in recent decades, it has become less popular among Americans. Last year, job-seekers who relocated for a role fell to 1.6%.
The decrease shows a cultural shift that has been building since the pandemic. With more roles being hybrid — or even fully remote — modern-day workers can often find the perfect fit from the comfort of their own home.
However, if you are willing to relocate, that gives you a distinct advantage over the competition since many companies are seeking in-house staff. With that in mind, it’s well worth ensuring that you include this vital piece of information on your next resume.
How to put ‘willing to relocate’ on your resume
Want to let the hiring manager know that you’re willing to relocate? Your resume is a good place to start. The best place to include this information is in your resume header. This section also boasts your basic details and contact information.
You can also include ‘willing to relocate’ next to your location. That way, when the hiring manager takes a look at your resume, they will instantly know that you are moving. Here are some of the best phrases you can use to get the job done:
- ‘Willing to relocate’
- ‘Relocating for work’
- ‘Open to relocating’
- ‘Relocating to X on 04/02/25’
Be clear when sharing this information. You don’t want the hiring manager to be confused about your intentions. The more obvious you make it, the easier you will find it to land your next role.
Relocation resume examples
Looking for some inspiration? We have a wide range of resume examples and writing guides for you to take a look at. Many of our guides include relocation resumes that you can tailor.
It doesn’t matter what type of resume you are writing, the process you follow will be the same. Here are two relocation resume examples that you can take a look at before writing yours.
Basic relocation resume header
If you are willing to relocate for a specific job, don’t beat around the bush. Simply use a statement, such as ‘willing to relocate’ on your resume below or next to your location.
Relocation resume header if you’re already moving
On the other hand, you may be moving to a new location whether you get the job or not. If that’s the case, let the hiring manager know exactly when you will have relocated.
Bonus: tips for writing your relocation resume
Now that you know how to write a relocation resume, it’s time to start working on it. However, before you do that, you need to make sure that you understand the basic rules.
- Keep it brief and to the point. You don’t need to write a memoir to let the hiring manager know that you are moving. Simply include a single line as we have covered.
- Mention it in your summary. While you have included this detail in your header, you can also add it to your summary. Simply include it at the end of the paragraph.
- Include it in your cover letter. If you want to add more information about your relocation, you can do so in your cover letter.
- Always be honest. If you are planning to relocate to a certain place, don’t list that as your current location. When the hiring manager finds out that you have not moved yet, that could work against you. You may end up looking dishonest and untrustworthy.
Above all else, you want to show that you are the ‘easy option’ for the hiring manager. Don’t do anything that makes them stop and pause when they are considering your candidacy.
Key takeaways
Modern workers often shy away from relocation. So, if you are willing to relocate, that is a major advantage. Showcase this information clearly on your resume in your header. You can also mention it in your summary and cover letter to strengthen your application. Don’t overthink this part of your application. The more direct you are from the start, the better your chances.
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