Job Relocation

Job Relocation Tips

Job relocation requires an effective strategy to maintain your working status!

The idea of a job relocation can seem exciting, but also overwhelming. There are so many variables! How should we prepare to make a long-distance career move? Should we look for a new position before we’ve nailed down a place to live, or simply move and hope for the best?

What if we’ve been offered a position at a higher salary, yet want to ensure that we can afford all the associated costs? Unless we’ve been incredibly lucky and have been offered upfront a dream job, a bonus, moving expenses, and a housing allowance, we might need some assistance with one or more of these issues. Let’s tackle them one at a time.

  • You’ve determined your ideal location—now, what about work?
  • Word of mouth. Asking around never hurts. Maybe friends, family, or alumni know of contacts in your desired area.
  • Check LinkedIn, Indeed, and other sources for positions open in or near this city.
  • Make sure your resume is up to date so you can send it immediately if you see a possibility.
  • Interviewing/negotiation strategies—what can I ask for?

Where to start

  • Obviously, these will depend on the specifics of your position and the company’s policies, but if you are about to relocate a significant distance, it is not unreasonable to ask about: any relocation bonus/allowance, a temporary housing allowance, possible moving costs reimbursement (including any packing and/or storage expenses), and if there is a policy in place for reimbursement of any miscellaneous expenses associated with the relocation.
  • Beyond direct reimbursement, it also might behoove you to ask, especially at a larger firm, if there is anyone who might be able to assist you with some ideas to make your transition go more smoothly.
  • That will also be a nice way to get to know one or more of your fellow employees without trying to socialize in an obnoxiously pushy way the minute you onboard.
  • You’ve received an offer—now, what about housing?
  • Ask the hiring manager or recruiter for some leads.
  • Word of mouth again—do friends, family, or alumni know of any contacts in your new locale who can offer advice on options?
  • Real estate agents—they can help you buy or lease a new place.
  • Can my higher salary really compensate for the higher cost of living in the new location?

Here is some helpful cost of living calculators to compare cities to each other:

These tips should give you a good starting point in creating your own checklist to help with the tasks involved in a potential relocation. Therefore, while there is a lot of work involved, it may be worth it for the right opportunity.

If you need assistance getting your resume in great shape while you’re considering a career move, contact Resume Advisor today.

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