There are many benefits to relocating to further your career. For example, it may allow you to take on a better-paid position, or one that is more tailored to your long-term goals, passions, or interests. It may also give you that fresh start you’ve been craving.
However, the already stressful process of moving to a new house is often made worse when you are moving to a new area entirely. With that in mind, here are some things you may want to consider before relocating for work.
The location.
Whether you applied for a position within a new company or are simply being sent to a new department, you must learn everything there is to know about your chosen location before you agree to relocate. For example, if you are moving across the country with children, you should figure out what the local schools or educational facilities are like, and how they rank compared to your current town or city.
You should also figure out what the average living costs are in this city – as while you may be offered a promotion, this can be pretty useless if your living costs rise by the same percentage. You should also do some research to figure out what kind of entertainment options you’ll have available to you once you move, such as restaurants, nightlife, and more. Finally, you should consider transport links, especially if you’d like to commute to work without having to spend hours behind the wheel.
Where you will live.
One of the most stressful elements of moving is finding the perfect home or apartment, and this is something you should not leave to chance. As soon as you begin to consider moving, do a quick cursory search for apartments for rent in your chosen town or city. This will give you a clearer understanding of your options moving forward, and you may even be able to schedule some virtual viewings ahead of time.
Furthermore, renting a property while you get a feel for your new town is always a good choice, as you are less tied down to a property should you realize the move isn’t right for you. This may also be a great option if you will be on probation for the first few months in your new position, as you may not have as much job security as you’d like. Remember, you can always buy a home at a later date when you are more settled.
The benefits.
If you’re going to be uprooting your life (and your family’s lives) to relocate for work, there should also be some clear benefits behind the move. Remember, this doesn’t necessarily mean a massive salary hike (though you should request some kind of raise as an incentive), it could simply be the promise of improved career satisfaction. For example, if moving will allow you to pursue your dream job, leaving behind something that leaves you feeling burnt out and unmotivated then it is definitely worthwhile. After all, when we are happy at work we feel more fulfilled in other areas of our lives.
