Would you take your dream job if it means you have to relocate? Here are some ideas to help decide whether relocating is the right move for you…
Should I Stay or Should I Go?
Being offered a job or promotion is the ultimate gold star when acknowledging the progress of your work performance and level of employability. However, when you may have to relocate to further progress in your career, it’s important to consider how this decision will affect you professionally as well as in your personal life.
Relocation may be a great opportunity to broaden your horizons but equally it means risking the unknown. Here are some initial thoughts to consider:
- Think about the bigger picture: Work shouldn’t control your whole life. So this decision can’t be whittled down to a pros and cons list. Does your new job location align with your lifestyle? Does the location involve knowing a different language? Whether you’re wanting to start a family or wanting to keep in close distance to your own family now, prioritizing your values will help you make the right decision.
- Take advice with a grain of salt: It’s useful to seek advice from loved ones or your professional network when you feel like you need more guidance on a difficult decision. To get the most neutral advice, consider asking colleagues not involved in the decision making process of your relocation. It’s even more advantageous if they’ve also had to consider a similar dilemma in their career, no matter what industry.
- Try before you buy: Relocations are a big change and very costly for both you and the company offering you the job. If you still feel you’re far off from a conclusion, ask your possible future employer whether you could trial the offer first with a short-term relocation or insight day.
- Don’t overthink: You can only plan your next move in life to an extent, so make sure to not put too much pressure on yourself to make the ‘perfect decision’. Everyone deserves to have a few adventures in their lifetime from trying something new.
How to Prepare for a Smooth Relocation
Moving for work involves many other factors to consider, than when you’re simply moving to a new home. The timeline is usually a lot shorter and involves the pressures of starting a new job. Whether you have a few months or a week, keep these tips in mind when preparing for a smooth relocation:
- Create a budget: Budget to make sure you can cover moving and living costs for at least 3 months after your relocation. Minimize expenses by opting to live in a spare room for the first couple months or research no deposit electricity providers in the new area to cut down on your utilities.
- Plan for relocation costs: Moving costs add up very quickly. Therefore, finances are a major influence on the possibility of relocation. There’s no harm in negotiating with your new employer if they can support covering expenses. Start by researching these costs and create a detailed estimate of how much it will cost you.
- Say your last goodbyes : If you’ve decided to commit to the move, it’s time to prepare for the next stage in your life by tying up loose ends. Updating your contact information, cancelling local gym memberships, and even planning last goodbyes are all important steps to make before moving away.
- Build your network: Relocating to a new location doesn’t always mean everything will be unfamiliar. Try and reach out to old friends, colleagues, and family who may be able to make the transition much easier.
Conclusion
There are many factors involved when considering job relocation. There’s nothing wrong with wanting to be as prepared and well-informed, so make sure to stay organized, plan, and reach out to your personal and professional circle to help decide if making the move is the best move for you.
