How to Write the Address On Your Resume When PCSing
As a military spouse on the move, you’ve probably wondered, “How do I write the address on my resume?” Addresses are complicated for military families. After a PCS, I often forget my new zip code.
One size doesn’t fit all
Every military spouse’s situation is different, and there is not a “one size fits all” solution, especially when applying for remote employment that could be across state (or country) lines. You may be relocating and you don’t have any idea where you’re going next. You could be “geobaching” and your spouse and you both live in two different cities. You may even live in a country that currently doesn’t allow you to work from home or it could impact your SOFA (Status of Forces Agreement) Status. Oh, the horror!
Don’t lie
Recruiters are smart, they will notice the military cities listed on your resume and the location of your current employer. Even unintentional misrepresentation of your address can give the vibe that you are not trustworthy and that you’re not a good fit for the company. In other words, if a recruiter senses that you are not being honest, your resume will go in the trash.
Address tips when applying for remote employment:
1. IF you’re “in-between” homes and IF the job announcement clearly states, “100% remote opportunity” and the job is NOT location-specific, you have two options:
Write the City, State listed in the announcement.
Write the City, State of your permanent home of record.
2. If you are NOT moving, write your current address – at least the City, State.
3. Don’t write an address at all.
Explain your relocation in your cover letter
Offer a brief explanation of an impending move in your cover letter. Many people fail to explain relocation in their cover letter because they believe it will disqualify them for the job. Military spouses require flexibility to thrive, and being clear and transparent about your situation is best. A fair, military spouse friendly company will not pass judgment and will hopefully offer flexibility during your current move AND for the inevitable PCS that will happen 3 or 4 years from now.
If in doubt, reach out to the recruiter and ask for their thoughts, but be respectful of their time because recruiters are busy.
Connect with Us
For military spouses seeking additional career resources, check out MSAN’s Free Career Resources for Military Spouses article to explore branch-specific resources and more. Keep an eye out on our Career & Employment page for new resources and follow our social media groups to connect with fellow military spouses.
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The #2 problem faced by our 10,000+ MSAN members is employment following only deployments as the #1 issue. I am working diligently to bridge the gap between our incredible military spouse tribe and the resources you need. I’m never too busy to help you. If you have any questions or need career and employment-related guidance, please contact me at jchapman@milspouseadvocacynetwork.org.
