relocation job cover letter example

A Persuasive Relocation Cover Letter Example

How do you approach the idea of relocation with potential employers? It is a challenging subject to be certain. For one thing, covering relocation expenses does increase the cost of hiring an employee. Further, there’s risk a potential employee is making if the desire to relocate to a new area is  a rash decision. This could lead to quick turnover.

All of these factors can make it difficult to convince a potential employer that you are a great candidate for relocation. Hence, you will need to come up with valid responses to those potential risks and objections, and ensure the employer about your seriousness. The best place to brook that subject is your cover letter. 

This post contains several tips to help you get it done, along with a sample relocation cover letter.

How to Mention Relocation in a Cover Letter?

You have two options to mention relocation in a cover letter:

• In the opening paragraph — works better if you upload a formal cover letter with your address in the letterhead
• At the end of your letter — a better option for email cover letters and less formal submissions. 

In either case, don’t make relocation the focal point of your letter. That prime spot is reserved for your interest in the positions and competitive skills. 

Here’s how to mention relocation at the beginning of your cover letter:

“In 2018, I first learned about your company’s mission of improving diversity at the Anual Marketing Award and was very impressed with your campaign results (belated congrats on the 2nd place). At my current position with Civil Corps, I was in charge of promoting the company’s D&I program too and managed to negotiate coverage in VOX, Techcrunch, and CBNC. I believe I could achieve the same results for your company too. I’m in the process of relocating to Denver, I was very excited to learn that Maxwell Corps is looking for a new PR manager.” 

And here’s another sample for highlighting relocation at the end of your cover letter:

“I’d be eager to provide more context of my achievements during the interview. Would you like me to share my calendar so that we could schedule a Zoom interview? I’m relocating to Denver in a month and would appreciate the opportunity to do a remote interview. However, I’m also open to traveling for an on-site interview if that works better for you. Thank you again for your consideration.” 

How to Write a Relocation Cover Letter

Similar to other types of cover letters, a relocation letter should have the same standard structure: opening paragraph, main body, and concluding paragraph. 

However, to make your cover letter for relocation more compelling, try this:

• Open with a lead on your qualifications 
• Highlight your interest and enthusiasm for the position 
• Discuss your most relevant skills in the body of the letter
• Show your passion and commitment for a new location
• Be forthcoming about your current location and decision to relocate
• Don’t overexplain — instead talk about your flexibility with interviewing 

Now let’s zoom in on each step! 

Lead With Your Qualifications – End With Your Relocation

You should definitely disclose that you will be relocating. What you shouldn’t do is lead with that information. Instead, cover your aptitude, talents, and qualifications. Describe why you are a good fit, and how interested you are in the announced opportunity. 

As you close your cover letter, mention that you will be relocating if you are offered the position. Or suggest that you could start working remotely and then relocate. If you’ve written the rest of your cover letter successfully, the hiring manager may very well be eager to move forward with the application process.

Show a Strong Interest in The Position Along With Relevant Skills

Your best chance at landing a job in another place is by proving that you are so qualified that you are worth any relocation expenses. That’s why you must indicate that you understand the position, have researched the company, and can show how your skills make you the ultimate candidate for the job at hand. 

Give specific examples of your accomplishments. Match your skills with the requirements of the position you are applying for. Wondering how to frame that for your industry? Refer to other cover letter examples on our website. Betcha we already covered your niche!

Don’t Over Explain or Apologize

It is perfectly acceptable to apply for jobs in other locations. You should be honest and clear about this, but avoid going into needless detail as you attempt to explain or apologize for your employment requirements. Don’t spend more than a line or two mentioning the relocation. Avoid using words like ‘sorry’ or ‘apologize’ when you bring up this subject.

You should also avoid revealing any personal information that might make things uncomfortable. For example, avoid disclosing that you are relocating due to a divorce.

Don’t Obscure Your Current Location

Some people believe that you shouldn’t share where you are currently located. This is generally not the best advice to follow. 

Because it is standard to include contact information on your resume and cover letter, leaving it off can definitely arouse suspicion. Avoid creating any red flags, and include your contact information like you normally would. You also don’t want to make it seem as if you were hiding information or being misleading.

Show Your Passion and Commitment to The New Location

If the hiring manager believes that you have some connection to or passion for their location, they will be more likely to believe you are a viable candidate. Learn about the community in which you plan to work. Mention in the cover letter that you are excited about the possibility to relocate. Share what it is that makes you excited about the possibility of moving.

A Sample Cover Letter For a Relocation in .docx Format

Download example (Word version)

A Relocation Cover Letter Example – Text Format

Dear Charlotte Williams,

My name is Davis Ninja, I am a certified public accountant with three years of experience as an auditor working for a Fortune 500, technology firm. I am very interested in the position of Chief Accounting Officer at Logistics International. I believe that I have the skills and background that make me a perfect fit for this job.

It is my understanding that Logistics International is facing many new challenges as it expands into the Southeast Asian markets. Because I have led my current employer through a similar expansion, I have both the professional skills and international connections to do the same for Logistics International. Let me handle the job of ensuring that your company is in compliance with international, finance regulations so that you can focus your energies on other matters.

I look forward to meeting with you to discuss my qualifications further. I will be traveling to your area within the next two weeks. This is when I will begin the process of searching for apartments as I make arrangements to relocate to your area from my current residence in Tampa, FL. Please be assured that I am capable of handling all relocation matters myself.

Davis Ninja, CPA

Another Example of Cover Letter for Relocation

Dear Nancy Reeves,

My name is Danielle Ninja, and I am an experienced, wildlife biologist specializing in freshwater ecology. Dr. Erica Green, a mutual friend of ours, informed me that you were looking for a scientist to manage the expansion of the state of Illinois Fisheries Management and Ecology Program into the Chicago area. I’ve reviewed the requirements for the job, and believe that I would be a perfect fit.

I am currently employed as a fisheries research technician for the state of Michigan. My work is primarily in the upper peninsula. The duties include taking and testing water samples from rivers and other waterways, observing and recording behaviors of fish and other vertebrate and invertebrate animals living in and around the water, capturing and tagging fish using various methods, and ensuring that all wildlife is handled humanely. I also record and organize all data for submission to the University of Michigan.

As I understand, my duties would essentially be the same with some additional supervisory responsibilities. I am confident I can take those on, as I have led several internship programs over the past three years.

Before I sign off, I want to assure you that I am aware that I will be required to relocate if I accept this position. This is something I am prepared to do. Thanks to friends and family in the area, I will be able to secure housing immediately and plan on looking into permanent arrangements upon receiving a job offer.

Danielle Ninja

Should You Put Relocation on a Resume Too?

Yes, it’s better to be forthcoming about your relocation plans. Hiring managers will appreciate a heads-up on your current location and will try to accommodate the interview process accordingly. The best way to mention relocation on a resume is the header area. Add a quick line to your resume tagline or summary. This way every reader of your resume (and there may be several!) will immediately understand your situation and weigh on the decision to call you in. 

What is a Fair Relocation Package?

A standard employer relocation package covers some of the costs of moving for the candidate. However, the exact package “content” differs a lot depending on the industry, position, and other benefits offered. Typically, employers either issue a cash allowance for relocation or offer other monetary perks such as temporary housing, pre-paid storage units, assistance with hiring a moving company, or travel costs reimbursement. Some international companies such as Google, Microsoft, and IBM among others also provide assistance for family members and cover a wider range of relocation costs. If the employer advertises a relocation package, ask them directly about what’s included.

How Do You Negotiate a Better Relocation Package?

Before you enter relocation package negotiation do an honest assessment of your needs. How much financial costs will you incur? Will you need to break an expensive lease or sell a property? Are you moving to a more competitive housing market where apartment search can take a while? Jot down your basic list of needs. Then approach HR and ask them to provide an overview of what their organization could cover. 

If some costs don’t overlap, but other perks are provided, think about how you feel about compromising. If the package clearly doesn’t cover enough, prepare your case. Appeal to the fact that the hassle of relocation (and searching for an apartment for instance) can delay your start date or make you less productive during the onboarding period. Share some of your ideas about how the employer’s assistance could help you get settled in the new role faster and start generating value for the business. Most will agree to meet you at least halfway (as long as your demands are adequate).

Final Thoughts

Remember that a ninja moves effortlessly. Your task is to prove to hiring managers that your relocation needs will be a non issue. Next, show your passion and skill. Finally, provide assurance that you are able to cover relocation expenses. That’s the recipe for a strong relocation cover letter. 

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The best relocation cover letter writing guide

Trying to find a job while relocating can be daunting. Employers in your new area will likely be curious about why you’re moving and what value you’re bringing with you. Discover the keys to answering their questions accurately while highlighting how your big move can benefit their business.

Discussing your intention or willingness to relocate in your cover letter

As a job seeker, you should always anticipate and answer as many questions about yourself as possible in your initial application, as transparency makes hiring managers feel more comfortable. If you live far from the business, the employer will notice this on your resume and may question why you’re applying. 

This is where a relocation cover letter can help. This type of cover letter is written to an employer telling them about your intention to move within a reasonable distance from the office. 

The purpose of a relocation cover letter is to ease concerns about you living so far away or worries about the reasons for your move. It’s always a good idea to make your intentions and plans known as early in the hiring process as possible, and a relocation cover letter accomplishes that goal.

Expert Tip:

When possible, try to mention your relocation timeframe and interview availability up front. This lets recruiters and hiring managers know when you’ll possibly be available to start the role and helps them make plans for an alternative interview format (such as videoconferencing) if you cannot yet interview in person.

Types of relocation cover letters

When it comes to cover letter examples, relocation letters aren’t always easy to find. Consequently, you may be unsure about how to approach writing one. 

Every employee’s situation is unique, and the type of relocation cover letter you write and submit should reflect those differences. Fortunately, there are a few types of letters to choose from, each with their own unique approach. 

Relocating for a spouse

It is normal for an employer to inquire about why you are leaving one job and applying for another. Letting a hiring manager know you are relocating to support a spouse eases their concerns.

In the cover letter , you can be straightforward about the fact that you are relocating because your spouse has recently accepted a position in the new location. However, you should also explain why you are personally excited to make the move and what you think you can contribute to the role. 

It’s also a good idea to highlight skills and traits that show how you adapt to new roles and situations. This highlights your strength and resilience, showing the employer that you’ll be able to hit the ground running once you’re hired. 

Relocating for an out-of-state job

Similar to when you’re relocating for a spouse, pursuing relocation for an out-of-state job means clearly stating this fact in your cover letter. Explain what excites you so much about the specific opportunity that you’re willing to relocate for it.

However, it’s important that you don’t put all of your focus on your own dreams and goals. Instead, spend most of the cover letter explaining how your skills and expertise can benefit the organization. This shows the hiring manager that you have sincerely thought about the role and whether you are the right person for it.

Relocating with no ties

Relocating to a new area with no ties highlights your flexibility, adaptability, and tenacity. It’s a good idea to mention this situation in your cover letter in as straightforward a manner as possible. 

You don’t have to mention a lack of family or professional ties. However, you can tell the hiring manager that there are no existing commitments hindering you from giving your full attention to a new role . In the rest of your cover letter, highlight your flexibility, how this can be of benefit to the new employer, and how you are open to dedicating your time and skills to the new role.

When writing this type of relocation cover letter, it’s important that you don’t come across to the hiring manager as flaky or transient. If you have held previous roles for a reasonable amount of time, you should definitely use a resume format that highlights this fact. 

Additionally, showcase in your cover letter your ability to commit to a position. Explain to the hiring manager why you can see yourself staying in this location long term.

Relocation cover letter example

If you’re looking for relocation cover letter examples , you’ve come to the right place. Here’s a sample letter you can model your own after:

Tips for writing a relocation cover letter

When writing your relocation cover letter, keep the following best practices in mind:

• Research the company and location you’re moving to so you’ll know how your skills and traits align 
• Mention relocation plans and offer details about your timeline
• Convey professionalism in your tone and formatting
• Focus on the skills and qualifications you bring to the role, not your own desires
• Follow a standard cover letter format that includes no more than four paragraphs
• Consider using cover letter examples for relocation to help you craft your own

These tips can help ensure your job relocation letter is polished, professional, and unique.

Common mistakes in a relocation cover letter

Try to avoid these mistakes to keep your application out of the “no” pile:

• Not mentioning relocation plans at all in the cover letter
• Not being flexible about interview scheduling and format
• Not focusing on the company and how your skills are the right fit for the role
• Not keeping all details concise and avoiding rambling
• Not tweaking cover letter templates to fit your unique situation and needs

By avoiding these pitfalls, you’ll cast yourself in a positive light and highlight why you’re the right person for the job.

"The purpose of a relocation cover letter is to ease concerns that the employer may have about you living so far away or worries they may have about the reasons for your move."

Land a dream job in a new place with the right relocation cover letter

When done well, a relocation cover letter lets the hiring manager know why you’re relocating and helps them see your true value. It also highlights how your skills, knowledge, and personal traits can be an asset to the organization.

Writing a relocation cover letter can be challenging if it’s your first time. Consider how a cover letter or resume sample can help you craft a professional application that gets attention for the right reasons. With the help of well-crafted resources, you’ll be well on your way to securing a great job no matter what city you land in. 

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Relocation Cover Letter Example

Written by Mark DeGrasso

May 5, 2023.

If you’re planning on relocating for a job, you’ll need to write a cover letter that addresses your intentions. A relocation cover letter is similar to a regular cover letter, but it includes additional information about your willingness to move to the new location. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at how to write a relocation cover letter that will impress employers and boost your chances of getting hired.

What Employers Look For In A Relocation Cover Letter

Relocating for a job can be an exciting opportunity, but it can also be a daunting task. Employers understand this and want to make sure that the candidate they hire is fully committed to making the move. That’s why they pay close attention to relocation cover letters.

When crafting your relocation cover letter , it’s important to keep in mind what employers are looking for. First and foremost, they want to know why you’re interested in moving to the new location. Are you looking for a change of scenery? Do you have family or friends in the area? Are you excited about the job opportunity and the potential for growth within the company? Whatever your reasons may be, make sure to clearly articulate them in your cover letter.

Employers also want to see that you’ve done your research on the company and the new location. Take the time to learn about the company culture and values, and explain how they align with your own values and goals. Research the area where you’ll be living and highlight any connections you have to the community. This will show the employer that you’re invested in the company and the new location.

Finally, employers want to know that you’re committed to the move and that you have a plan for making the relocation as smooth as possible. Explain how you plan to handle the logistics of the move, such as finding housing and arranging transportation. If you have any experience with relocating in the past, share what you learned from that experience and how you plan to apply it to this move.

Overall, a relocation cover letter is your chance to show the employer that you’re serious about the job and committed to making the move. By addressing each of these key components, you can create a compelling cover letter that will help you stand out from the competition.

Essential Components of a Relocation Cover Letter

Relocating for a job can be both exciting and daunting. Writing a relocation cover letter is an important step to show your potential employer that you are serious about the job and willing to make the move. Here are some essential components that you need to include in your relocation cover letter:

• Your Contact Information: This should include your full name, address, phone number, and email address. Make sure that your contact information is up-to-date and professional-looking.
• The Employer’s Contact Information: This should include the employer’s name, address, phone number, and email address. If possible, try to address your cover letter to a specific person rather than using a generic greeting.
• A Personalized Greeting: Use the employer’s name if possible, and make sure to spell it correctly. A personalized greeting shows that you have done your research and are interested in the company.
• An Opening Paragraph: This should explain why you are writing and your interest in the job. Be specific about the position you are applying for and why it appeals to you.
• A Second Paragraph: This should explain your willingness to relocate and any plans you’ve made to do so. If you have already secured housing or have family in the area, mention it here.
• A Third Paragraph: This should highlight your relevant skills and experiences. Use specific examples to show how your skills and experiences match the job requirements.
• A Closing Paragraph: This should reiterate your interest in the job and thank the employer for considering your application. You can also mention that you are available for an interview at their convenience.

Keep in mind that a relocation cover letter is an opportunity for you to showcase your enthusiasm for the job and your commitment to making the move. Make sure to proofread your letter carefully and customize it for each job application. Good luck!

Common Mistakes To Avoid When Writing a Relocation Cover Letter

Relocating for a job can be an exciting opportunity, but it requires careful planning and consideration. One of the most important steps in the process is writing a relocation cover letter that effectively communicates your qualifications and enthusiasm for the job. However, there are some common mistakes that you should avoid when writing a relocation cover letter. These include:

• Focusing too much on the relocation and not enough on your qualifications for the job: While it’s important to explain your reasons for wanting to relocate, your cover letter should primarily focus on your qualifications for the job. Make sure to highlight your relevant skills and experience, and explain how they make you a strong candidate for the position.
• Not doing enough research on the company and the location: Employers want to know that you’re genuinely interested in the job and the company. Take some time to research the company’s mission, values, and recent projects, and explain how your skills and experience align with their needs. Additionally, research the location where the job is located and highlight why you’re excited to live and work there.
• Being too informal or using unprofessional language: Your cover letter should be professional in tone and language. Avoid using slang or overly casual language, and make sure to address the employer formally (e.g. “Dear Hiring Manager”).
• Not proofreading carefully for errors: A cover letter with typos or grammatical errors can quickly turn off a potential employer. Make sure to proofread your cover letter carefully, and consider asking a friend or mentor to review it as well.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can increase your chances of writing a relocation cover letter that effectively communicates your qualifications and enthusiasm for the job. Good luck!

Final Steps On Writing Your Relocation Cover Letter

Relocating for a job can be a daunting task, but a well-crafted relocation cover letter can make all the difference. As you’re finishing up your relocation cover letter, there are a few final steps you should take to ensure that it’s the best it can be:

• Read it over carefully: Once you have completed writing your relocation cover letter, read it over carefully to make sure it flows well and makes sense. Check for any grammatical errors, spelling mistakes, or typos. Ensure that you have used the right tone throughout the letter.
• Get a second opinion: Have someone else read it over to catch any errors or areas for improvement. This could be a friend, family member, or a professional editor. A fresh set of eyes can often spot things that you may have missed.
• Craft a strong subject line: The subject line of your email is the first thing that the employer will see. Make sure it is strong and attention-grabbing. It should be short, to the point, and relevant to the content of your relocation cover letter.
• Send your letter in a timely manner: Once you are satisfied with your relocation cover letter, send it in a timely manner. Make sure you have included all the necessary attachments and documents. If you don’t hear back within a reasonable amount of time, follow up with a polite email or phone call.

A relocation cover letter is an opportunity for you to showcase your skills and experience while explaining why you are the best candidate for the job, despite the distance. It should be personalized to the company and the job you are applying for. Make sure you have done your research on the company and the location you are relocating to.

Remember to highlight your willingness to relocate and your reasons for doing so. Be honest and transparent about your situation. Explain why you are interested in the job and how it fits into your long-term career goals.

Lastly, make sure your relocation cover letter is professional and well-written. It should be easy to read and understand. Use a clear and concise writing style, and avoid using jargon or technical terms that the employer may not understand.

By following these final steps, you can ensure that your relocation cover letter is the best it can be and increases your chances of getting the job you want.

Example Relocation Cover Letter

Dear [Employer’s Name],

I am thrilled to apply for the [Position] role at [Company], as advertised on [Job Board/Website]. I am confident that my skills and experiences make me the ideal candidate for the job, and I am excited about the opportunity to work for such a reputable company.

Although I am currently living in [Current City], I am eager to relocate to [Target City] to take on this new challenge. After researching the area, I am excited to explore the thriving arts scene and outdoor activities that the city has to offer. I have also made arrangements to secure an apartment in [Target City], so I am ready to make the move as soon as possible.

Moreover, I am passionate about [Your Profession] and have developed a strong skill set that includes [List Relevant Skills]. I am confident that these skills, coupled with my dedication and passion for the industry, make me a valuable asset to the [Company] team. I have experience in [Related Experience], which has prepared me to handle the responsibilities of the position with ease.

Furthermore, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute my talents to an organization that is known for its commitment to excellence. I am confident that my skills and experience will enable me to make a significant contribution to the company’s success.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

[Your Name]

P.S. I would like to take a moment to express my excitement about the prospect of living in [Target City]. I have always been drawn to the city’s vibrant culture and rich history. The city is home to many world-renowned museums, galleries, and theaters, which I look forward to exploring. Additionally, I am an avid hiker and runner, and I am excited to take advantage of the city’s numerous parks and trails. I am confident that my relocation will not only benefit my professional growth but also enhance my personal life.

Relocation Cover Letter FAQ

Relocating for a job can be an exciting opportunity, but it can also be a daunting task. Here are some frequently asked questions about writing a relocation cover letter:

Q: Should I mention my willingness to relocate in my resume?

A: While it’s not necessary to mention your willingness to relocate in your resume, it’s a good idea to include it in your cover letter. This way, the employer knows upfront that you’re open to moving and can consider you for the position accordingly.

Q: How do I address a relocation cover letter?

A: Address your relocation cover letter to the person who will be reviewing your application. If you don’t know their name, you can address it to “Hiring Manager” or “Human Resources.”

Q: How do I prove that I’m committed to making the move?

A: You can show your commitment to making the move by mentioning any steps you’ve taken to prepare for the relocation. For example, have you secured housing in the new location or researched the area to get a better understanding of the community? Mentioning these details will show the employer that you’re serious about the opportunity.

Q: Is it okay to ask the employer for relocation assistance?

A: Yes, it’s okay to ask the employer for relocation assistance if it’s not already mentioned in the job posting. However, it’s important to do so tactfully and professionally. You can mention that you’re excited about the opportunity but that relocating can be a costly process, and you were wondering if the company offers any assistance or reimbursement for relocation expenses.

Q: Should I mention any personal reasons for wanting to relocate?

A: While it’s okay to mention that you’re excited about a new adventure or interested in exploring a new city, it’s not necessary to mention personal reasons for wanting to relocate. Keep the focus on your professional goals and how the position aligns with them.

Remember, a relocation cover letter is your chance to showcase your enthusiasm for the position and your willingness to make the move. Use it as an opportunity to demonstrate your commitment and dedication to the company and the role.

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