Unfortunately, living in NYC costs money… I know, right? There’s two routes you can take in regards to jobs when moving to NYC. First, you can secure a job for yourself and then make the move. Second, you can do what I did and save up some money, move out there, and then hope to find enough work to sustain yourself. If you take the first approach, you don’t really need to read this post since you already have a job; also, I hate you. If you are the adventurous type and take a similar route to mine, it’s time to listen up.
First: Don’t let the fear of not finding work keep you from living out your dream of moving to NYC. I didn’t, and I have no regrets.
Second: You need to network. In this city, just like any other, the more connections you have, the better. I’m not even talking about friends necessarily. Any connection is a good one out here. Look into college alumni groups and get plugged in there. Search your friends on Facebook and connections on LinkedIn. I bet you there’s at least a few people you haven’t talked to in a while that are now living and working in New York. It’s time to reconnect, baby!
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Third: It’s easier to find work once you’re out here. I searched for jobs before moving to the city, but never had any luck. There’s just something about being in the city you’re looking for work in that really helps move things along. You can connect more easily with people, you can interview in person, and being faced with the challenge everyday really keeps you motivated and focused; you can’t just brush it aside anymore.
Fourth: If you have friends or family that will let you crash with them for a little while once you’re out here, do it. It may not be ideal, but it will save you money and save you the pressure of signing a lease right away.
Finally: Craigslist. Use it.