She Strengthens

Rethinking the Big City Dream: Why Small Towns Can Be a Smarter Career Move

Growing up in the suburbs of Vancouver, I always associated downtown with professional advancement. The thrill of crossing the harbor into the city center, surrounded by suited businesspeople and black umbrellas, was exhilarating. But after working on a small island and contemplating my career prospects, I began to question whether the big city was the only path to success.

The Lure of the City

Recently, I made the move from my parents’ house in the suburbs to the downtown area near my university. I thought that being in the heart of the city would naturally lead to better career opportunities. However, as I near graduation, I’m learning that small towns can offer more professional value than I initially thought.

Supply and Demand: The Hidden Advantage of Small Towns

When considering the job market, it’s essential to think about the laws of supply and demand. In theory, when the availability of people exceeds the demand for labor, wages fall until the market clears. While this is complicated by factors like minimum wage and imperfect job markets, it stands to reason that many post-grads struggle to find employment due to an oversupply of job seekers.

Real-Life Examples: Beating the Odds in Small Towns

My friend, who graduated from college in Nova Scotia, landed her first “career job” in just a week and a half after being let go from her post-grad summer position. She attributes her success to being in the right place at the right time, with a smaller applicant pool to compete against. This allowed her to move up quickly and prove herself in her role. According to experts, this is known as “downsizing your competition” and “upsizing your skills set.”

Expert Insights: The Benefits of Starting Small

Sarah Fuller, author of Job Search Beyond The Big Cities, started her career in a smaller city and rose through the ranks quickly. She believes that smaller cities can offer big opportunities, especially for those willing to start small. “I was working with celebrities and large publications. There’s no way I would have been able to do that if I was one of so many people in Atlanta or New York City,” she says.

Government Jobs: A Hidden Gem in Small Towns

In an informational interview with a lawyer who graduated from my university, I learned that smaller municipalities are often desperate for lawyers. Government jobs often require moving, and there are currently more opportunities available as older lawyers retire. In some cases, government subsidies are even offered to those who move to more remote areas.

Rethinking the Career-Building Process

While moving to a city after graduation can be a career-boosting move, it’s not the only way to make a career. I’m learning that a flexible, innovative approach – and the willingness to move – can go a long way. Small towns may not have the glamour of big cities, but they can offer a surplus of opportunities for those willing to take the leap.