Relocating for work can be a major step in one’s career. Whether you’re looking for a fresh start with a new job and a new home, or your company is changing locations and wants to bring you with them, uprooting your life and moving somewhere else can be a daunting task. Yet, it can also be an exciting time and a great opportunity. Through proper planning and careful consideration, your work relocation can be a successful and positive experience in your career. Here are three ways to get prepared:
Familiarize Yourself With Your New Town
If you’re going to relocate to a new city in the name of your career, you should feel confident that you will enjoy living there and be happy. Of course, it’s difficult to know this for sure, as feelings can change over time. However, a good first step is getting to know a new city before actually deciding to live there. It’s kind of like going on a college visit—you don’t want to apply without seeing the university first! Whether it’s just the weekend, or a longer vacation, take some time to explore the area and get a feel for the lifestyle.
Try scouting out local eateries, night life, and other attractions. These aspects of a new city will keep you entertained outside of work. Furthermore, you should educate yourself on the various neighborhoods and parts of town. Take into account some of the day-to-day aspects of living in the area, such as walkability, access to public transportation, and proximity to schools, shopping, grocery stores, etc. All of this will come in handy when you’re deciding on a place to live.
Find a Place to Live
Once you’re committed to relocating for work, it’s important that you find a place to live before actually making the move. Living out of a hotel room until you’re able to settle down more permanently will only leave you feeling stressed and disorganized. However, you also don’t want to rush and put an offer in on the very first house or apartment that comes your way.
If you can spare the time before needing to make the move, do your best to consider a wide array of potential listings. Utilizing the internet to search for houses online makes it easy to browse through many options at once without having to physically be there. You can then narrow down your list and book viewings for your favorites choices. When looking through the map, try to keep in mind the proximity to all of the amenities you might be looking for.
Request Assistance From Your Employer
Some employers have programs already established to assist employees with relocation. Possible help may include financial assistance, like covering the costs of transportation when you visit or assisting with packing and moving services. However, there’s other ways employers can assist too, like helping your spouse find a job or allowing you more flexibility during your move.
If your employer doesn’t offer these services, you may still be able to request them regardless. Whether you’re being recruited by a new company, or your existing employer wants you to relocate with them, it’s clear that they desire your services. There’s no harm in having a conversation with your boss or human resources representative to see what they can do for you.
By taking time to think about your decision and lay the necessary groundwork, you don’t need to dread the process of relocating for work. Scouting out your new home and seeking assistance from your employer can help make the experience feel like an exciting new opportunity.
