5 tips for a successful job relocation

If you’ve been offered a job in a different location or are considering a fresh start in pastures new, it’s worth thinking it through carefully before taking the plunge. Relocating can throw up unexpected issues and increase stress levels, so it’s best to be prepared.

The challenges

We all know that moving house can be pricey and stressful, but what other potential challenges might a job relocation involve?

• Selling a house and buying a new one, or moving rental properties
• Updating the addresses on all your paperwork and bills
• Getting to know new colleagues
• Signing up with doctors, opticians and so on
• Putting children into a new school
• Establishing a new support network
• Finding alternative employment for your partner
• Joining new organisations such as churches and sports clubs

How to deal with job relocation challenges

If you want to stay one step ahead of the game and make your job relocation a success, try following the five steps below:

1. Stay organised. Make detailed to-do lists and tick tasks off as you go along. Focus on jobs that need to be completed at your new location as well as in your existing residence.
2. Get to know your new location. Make sure you are well acquainted with your target destination before agreeing to a move. Is it more expensive than your current location? Is there good housing available? Are there decent schools nearby? Will you be closer to relatives or further away? Is it easy to get around? Does it have a nice feel about it? Talk to local people or visit forums that will help you make an informed decision.
3. Take advantage of help offered. Some companies offer decent relocation packages and services, so ask if any help is available. It might be that the company will help you sell or buy your home or cover your moving and temporary accommodation costs. Never look a gift horse in the mouth! If nothing is forthcoming, ask your existing or new employer if any help is available. Put together some quotes for all the services you require and present these to your boss. It’s also worth finding out if any of your relocation costs are tax-deductible.
4. Stay flexible. It might be that your relocation turns out to be a real triumph, but until you’re sure it might be better to take a temporary approach. It’s worth considering renting rather than buying in the first instance. You might love the city but feel unsettled in the neighbourhood you have picked, so don’t tie yourself down.
5. Build a network. There may be groups you can join at your new location if you’re looking to meet likeminded people in your area. These may be online groups that tell you about the area and organise interesting events, or face-to-face groups where you can meet people at a similar life juncture. From toddler groups to community initiatives, this is a great way to make friends and impact your community. Take the time to get to know your neighbours and interact with new colleagues and local people. These friendships might turn out to be lifesavers as you transition from one location to another.