3 Tips For Effectively Navigating a Job Relocation 

With the adoption of hybrid and remote work, job relocation has seen a decline in the past couple of years. However, despite the overall decline, many workers are still relocating. A recent study by Apartment List reported that 27% of on-site workers said they are planning to move in 2023.  

The reasons that people relocate for work varies. In a study of 1000 adults conducted by Allied, 36.96% of respondents answered that they moved for career advancement or the opportunity to make more money, 17.88% responded that they wanted to be closer to friends and family and 15.48% reported that they were transferring to a new division or office. 

Whatever the case, when relocating for a job there are a lot of factors to candidates should consider. On top of moving logistics, financial changes, stress of a new job and other considerations, the timeline for relocation is typically short. Luckily, there are some ways candidates can prepare themselves for the move and set themselves up for success in their new home and job. Read on for our tips for effectively navigating a job relocation.  

Do Financial Due Diligence  

When relocating for a role, there are a lot of financial factors to consider. To effectively transition into a new role and city, it is essential that candidates do their financial due diligence. One of the first things potential employees should inquire about is if there is any relocation assistance provided. Companies will sometimes provide a stipend for the costs associated with moving. While not all employers offer relocation, it is good to know if some assistance will be provided. Next, employees should consider the costs associated with moving. They should ask questions like; will I need to hire a moving company? Will I be able to move into a place immediately, or will I need short-term housing for a period of time? These factors and more can help candidates get an idea of the budget needed to execute the move.  

Another item to consider is the cost of living in the new location. Will the cost of living be more or less than the candidate’s current situation? Will their new salary go as far as their previous salary did? These factors are essential in understanding what life will be like in their new city and help them decide on what they can afford for housing costs. Overall, taking the time to consider the financial changes of a job relocation will assist candidates in making the right decisions for their situation.  

Research The New City  

Candidates relocating to a new city should take the time to learn about their future home. If possible, it is a great idea for an individual who is moving to visit their new city before they make the transition. Not only does it help the individual get familiar with the area, it also allows them to get an understanding of where their new office is in relation to other places. While this is not always possible, it gives the employee an understanding of the area that is deeper than doing research online.  

Some other items they should consider researching include the best method of transportation, where the common areas to live are and happenings around the city. Doing some initial research can help candidates hit the ground running and get them excited about their new chapter. Also, by having an idea of where to go and the events or groups they might want to get involved with can give them a sense of community and help them assimilate quicker. 

Start to Form a Network 

When an employee relocates to a new city for work, it can be difficult at first to create a network of trusted colleagues. Between being a new employee and a new resident of the city, individuals in this situation may feel as if they are starting from scratch. Fortunately, there are some actions they can take to start to form their network before they move. One of the first things a relocating employee can do is reach out to their future coworkers. New employees should consider reaching out via LinkedIn or other methods to start to make connections. An e-introduction is a good way for new employees to get to know others and also let the new coworkers get to know them. Additionally, they can reach out to their HR contact at their new company or office for recommendations and introductions. 

Another way that new employees can start to build their network in a new city is to explore professional development organizations, events and interest groups. Organized groups such as these are helpful for new employees to meet others with similar interests and occupations in their area. New employees who take the time to build their network ahead of time will be one step ahead when they relocate to their new city.   

Relocating for a new job can be challenging, but by following this advice, relocating individuals can be prepared to effectively make the transition to their new home and job!  

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