7 Things to Ask Yourself Before Relocating for a Job - CareerMetis.com

7 Things to Ask Yourself Before Relocating for a Job Whether you live in small town with little opportunity for career advancements or you’ve just landed upon the opportunity of a lifetime with a new company, you could easily find yourself facing the task of relocating for a job.There are two elements of stress that this situation can create. One is the stress of moving, and the other is that of starting a new job. Both of these events on their own can be stressful, however, combining the two can cause a whole new level of concern. Moving and starting a new job are both considered by the Holmes-Ray Stress Inventoryto be a major stress-inducing life event.evalSo, how do you navigate getting ready to move and to start a new job? As with all things, preparedness is key. We’re here to let you know seven things that you want to ask yourself before you relocate for a job, whether it’s a short drive to your new community or a long-distance trip in another part of the country.A new job is one of the primary reasons that people relocate. Almost half of those that relocate for a job move to another stateor even out of the country. Here are a few things to consider before making the big move.1. Are you ready to start over in a brand new place?Moving far away from those that you’ve known for years and are close to is a big jump, especially if you’ve lived in one place for most of your life. Many people take for granted how much you may rely on family, friends, and neighbors until you’re in a location where you have to go out of your way to meet new people.In many cases, your co-workers will step in and help you get acclimated, but you can’t count on this. Are you prepared to get out and meet other people on your own?If you’re more of an introvertare you prepared to spend some time in a place where your friends that have known you for years will no longer be? And, if not, are you prepared to take the initiative to get out and meet people.2. Is your family ready for a move?If you’re in a relationship or marri ed, is your loved one readyto pick up and move to a new place? Do they have a job they currently love and can they find another job in your new city? How do they feel about making new friends and not having their support system nearby?Don’t underestimate the impact that this could have on your relationship. Asking your loved one to give up a life they are comfortable in to move with you for your career can lead to feelings of resentment if their own needs are not considered fully.3. Be sure that the job is a good fitevalBefore you commit to moving, make sure you’ve taken at least one and preferably two trips to your new workplace. You should spend a day there surrounded by your potential co-workers and managers to see what the work environment is like.Be sure to investigate your growth potential at the new company.What are the opportunities for advancement? It’s important to that you’re moving into a company that fits what you want and need in your career.4. Will your new em ployer cover your moving expenses?Moving expenses can easily exceed $2,000depending on how much you have to move and how far away you’re going. Many employers factor in the cost of moving into their new employee transfer package.evalIf your new company does not cover relocation costs, make sure that you consider these costs into your budget.Do you need to sell your house? You’ll need to account for those costs too. Don’t forget to include costs of hotel stays to visit or look for a place to live, as well as any costs for temporary housing while you’re getting settled.5. What is the cost of living in the area you’re moving to?While a substantial raise may be a very attractive prospect, be sure that you are also considering the cost of livingin the area that you’re moving to. Find out what the average rent or mortgage payment costs. What do homes in the area sell for on average?Other things to consider for cost of living is the cost of food and gas in the area. You can fin d most of this information easily online or through a realtor.6. Do you know where you will be living?Though the idea of packing some suitcases and just making a home wherever you land may sound exciting, rarely does that lack of planning benefit you in the long run.As soon as you’ve decided to accept the new job and know that a move is imminent, you should contact a realtor in that area to help you pick out your new home.It’s great if you can make a trip to see the places in person, but in this age of technology, there are many ways you can get a good feel for the home you’re moving into through video tours and other high-tech options.7. Do you know how viable and financially sound your new company is?Doing your due diligence on the financial stability of the company you plan to work for is another important step to take. Is the company at risk of being bought out or sold? Are there any signs of financial trouble? What about potential layoffs?Making a move to another part of the country is a huge commitment and warrants taking extra steps to make sure that you’re moving to be with a good company that will be around for a long time.evalThere will likely be other questions that come up as you consider making this move for a new job. Take your time, ask questions of your new employer, talk to people that live in the area and work for the company.It could be the best decision that you make in your life, and it deserves the time and consideration of that.