6 Tips to Make Sure Your Job Relocation Goes Smoothly

7 years ago | Posted in: Jobs | 899 Views

For the past several decades, the world has been metaphorically “shrinking.” Areas in the world that used to be too far for businesses to commit resources are now simpler and cheaper to access, and communication between offices is the simple matter of a few clicks of a mouse. Businesses are able to place employees in more remote areas to handle a distant market, or they can widen their hiring pool and bring in employees from far away.

Even though the world is more accessible, though, it can still be an ordeal to pack up your entire life and relocate for a job. Sometimes, businesses will provide assistance—both financial and by way of simplifying the process—to the employees they are moving, but often, the responsibility falls entirely on the employee. Whether it’s for a job with a new company or a new position at a current employer, there are a few tips workers can follow to make sure the moving process goes as smoothly as possible.

1. Keep organized records.

When you are caught in the middle of a big move, it can be easy to forget all the details, and there’s a good chance you will need to find them later. It might seem silly at first, but take copious notes whenever you learn new information or solidify a part of your relocation plan. If you are getting relocation assistance from your employer, hold onto your receipts in a central location. Each move is different, so this could be a heavy binder filled with paperwork, or it could be a simple folder. Keeping records and organizing everything is much simpler if you start at the beginning, so don’t worry if it seems like overkill at first. The process always gets more complicated as time goes on, so start early and be thorough.

2. Before accepting the job offer, research how your new salary stacks up with your new cost of living.

Sometimes, it’s tempting to jump at a job offer if you see that the new salary is higher than your current one. While salary is important, though, it’s not the only factor to consider. The cost of living in some cities can be significantly higher than others, so even if you are getting paid more at your new position, you could effectively be taking a pay cut if your new salary won’t pay the bills in your new home.

Before accepting a job offer in a new city, research the cost of living in the area. Include factors such as housing, utilities, taxes, gas prices, and anything else that could impact your finances. Make sure that, with your new salary, you will be able to afford the same sort of lifestyle.

3. Ask about relocation assistance from your new employer.

In some cases, the burden of relocating to a new location falls on the employee, but relocation packages are not uncommon. If you will be moving for work, don’t hesitate to speak with your employer about moving assistance. Typically, this is negotiated as part of the job offer, but don’t be afraid to ask about programs the company may have in place. Sometimes, businesses have deals in place with a variety of businesses to make relocation simpler while keeping costs low at the same time.

4. Research the best moving companies.

Particularly if your employer is footing the bill, it can be worth it to hire professional movers to help you to pack, transport, and unpack your belongings. Whether you are moving to London or San Antonio, movers can simplify the process and remove a hefty amount of stress from your life. Not all moving companies are created equal, so do your research. You want to find a reputable moving company that can demonstrate that it will get your things from your old home to your new one both quickly and safely.

5. Take care of housing and utilities as early as possible.

Often, businesses will offer a prospective employee a job and want them to start work as soon as possible, but if you have a significant amount of time between the job offer and the move, don’t put off your housing search. If you start your search early, you won’t be desperate to accept the first offer that comes along. Instead, you will be able to take your time and find a good deal on a great home.

Don’t wait until the day you move in to get your utilities set up at your new home. Many companies have rush options, but often, it can take as much as a week to ten days to get electricity, gas, an internet connection, and other utilities processed and connected. Where possible, get things squared away at least two weeks before you actually move in. That way, you won’t end up stuck without heat, water, or communication when you get to your new home.

6. Find schools, doctors, and other resources you will need in your area.

In addition to utilities, there are a variety of services you and your family will need once you have completed your move. If you regularly see a doctor, speak to them before you move to see if they have any recommendations in your new city. If you have children, find out where they will be attending school and make a plan for getting them there each day. Planning is one of the best tools to simplifying a move.

Moving is a double-edged sword, offering both new opportunities and new trials. In addition to a new position at work, you will be surrounded by a new environment, new people, and essentially, a new way of life. Depending on how you approach it, it can be a stressful event or a grand new adventure. By preparing yourself ahead of time, however, you can make sure that it is an exciting experience for yourself and for your family.

by :  Dennis Hung

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