Dear CareerBabe:

I have a multifaceted problem. I work for a major brokerage firm in Hawaii and want to find employment in medical sales in Dallas. Will I jeopardize my current income if I announce I am making this move where I work now? Also, should I contact companies on my own or just use a recruiter? Recruiters seem to want me to work just through them, but you suggested that one could call the CEO or Pres. directly. That seemed like a great idea, one that I would like to pursue.

I would love to hear from you personally.

Dear New:

First, providing your level of work and contribution to your current firm remain high, you would be wiser to keep your plans to yourself until you have a job to go to! Otherwise, you might lose your current job before you are ready -- but if you really don't want your employer to be aware of your current search for a new job in a new location, you must keep your billings up!

Second, companies like to use recruiters, because they feel good paying fees for hiring employees with EXACTLY the skills and experience they need. If you are new to a field, generally speaking, a company will be less willing to pay a fee for you, which is why I suggested going direct -- without a recruiter.

Let us know how you are doing in your job search!