Do you think it's wise to just move to a new city without knowing anyone or having a job yet?

Question

I ask because I want to move to Orlando--I did an internship there a few years ago, and loved it. I applied for a few jobs down there, but so far, no bites. I definitely want to end up down there, so I'm thinking about just packing up and moving down there and working whatever kind of job I can get until a better one comes along. I just graduated with a degree in technical writing, and I figure that now's the best time to do something like this--I'm young enough to where if I make a gigantic screw up that doesn't involve prison, I have time to fix it.

However, half of my friends are saying it's a great idea, but half of them are saying I'm crazy--now I'm uncertain what to think. Therefore, to muddy the waters even MORE, I'm going to ask what the loyal denizens of Yahoo! Answers think, because following complete strangers' advice is always a great idea. Have you ever gone through such a move? Did you regret it? Anybody want to hire a plucky, hard working technical writer?;)

I do plan to save up money before moving down there, obviously.:)

Answer 1

I've done it 3 or 4 times - moved to Santa Fe, New Mexico; Maui, Hawaii; and Anchorage, Alaska.

It's a little scary, but it depends on how adventurous you are.

I've moved with as little as $500 and as much as 5K. It's easier with 5K.

I stay in a hostel for the first day or two, and then check the paper for roommate situations. It seems to help if you can connect well with a few people and have roommates, as they can be a great source of information and emotional support.

Then look at transportation - buy a used car or rent a car for a week.

For jobs, I like to check the local want ads, and the internet - monster.com; Craig's list, and government jobs in the area.

Engineering firms are often looking for tech writers and often pay well. Duties are usually preparing proposals or editing and producing technical reports. CH2M Hill is a nice company to work for - I'm not sure if they have an office there.

Good luck.

Edit - I forgot to say - check and see if there is a local branch of STC - society for technical communications - they usually have great leads for jobs for tech writers.

Answer 2

I wouldn't do it unless you have enough money saved to at least find someplace to live. I don't know what a technical writer is, but at least call the Chamber of Commerce in Orlando and see what they have to say about jobs in your field. We lived in Orlando for two years and we really liked it. But it's much different now. The Chamber may just hook you up with the names of some companies you can solicit. Good luck. Not far from Daytona.

Answer 3

It's always a good idea to look for a better life. I wouldn't recommend moving without a job or place to live. You should research the aprtments in the area and save up a couple months rent, then move and spend that time looking for a job.

Answer 4

Both halves of your friends are correct.
there are always risks and rewards in these kinds of decisions.
it just depends on what your risk tolerance is.
Life is a gamble, those who take great risks gain great loss or great reward. those who dont just live their hum drum lives and enjoy their mediocrity.
If you wanted to be an actor you would go to New York or Los Angeles because that is where the greatest chance of getting that type of job is.'
If you save enough to survive six months, then give it a shot.
What have you got to loose? and you may just find the kind of job you would really enjoy. plus you will live where you want to.

Answer 5

Go. You will alway regret more things that you wanted to do and didn't than those you did and decided were not the best for you.
Also, invest in the book "What Color Is Your Parachute." Despite it's crazy title, it gives you lots of ideas for getting the job you want. The book is updated every couple of years with additional information.

Answer 6

I moved 3 thousand miles, didn't know a soul outside of my family when I got here, and basically had to start out all over again in my career. It was an adventure, it drained me but now I'm glad I did it. My family has so many opportunities here that they did not have where I lived before.

Go for it. You only live once and "who says you can't go home?"

Answer 7

i say go for it, i moved to Florida from Ohio 3 years ago, with no job prospects, and no friends, and everything worked out quite nicely, i found a job within a week or two of moving here, and Friends are really easy to make, i don't regret moving at all, and my friends in Ohio said i was crazy too, but i just listened to the little voice inside

Answer 8

I think it is a crazy idea and you should do it. You only live once. I'm going to pack up a leave too. Sometime in the near future. Just havn't decided where I want to go yet. Orland sounds nice. Good Luck!

Answer 9

Moving can be fun but you must have a income. Get a job lined up first. I have made several long distance moves and loved it every time but i had jobs lined up every time. We kinda have a quirky job market right now.

Answer 10

No, I have done twice and each time I had the time of life and ended up feeling like I have a second and third home.