Relocating for a Job: 7 Tips for Making it Work
As a job seeker, relocation generally happens when you plan to choose a job in a new location, or when your existing company is moving and they want you to relocate. In both scenarios, you should consider a few key points to avoid hassles post-shifting to the new Job.
When you are a new employee for a company, and yet to accept the offer, you can negotiate on multiple factors and clarify every point before making the decision.
1. The first factor to consider is your Family
When changing a location, it not only impacts you but your family as well. As a preferred head-hunter when we reach a jobseeker, we ask them about their current responsibilities. We ensure we have all the information, if the jobseeker would relocate with family, will the spouse need a job, will they require assistance in school admissions? If parents have certain preferences. It’s easier when you are single, and living on your own. But shifting when you have a family relocating with you, they all become stakeholders in this decision.
2. Negotiating Relocation Benefits:
When negotiating your job offer, discuss relocation benefits such as moving expenses, temporary housing, and assistance with settling in. Negotiating these benefits can alleviate financial stress and make the transition smoother. Many companies give relocation bonus, it helps you shoulder the additional expenses you incur in shifting your base. Also, companies help you in moving and packing your base, they have certain tie-ups with service providers. So, reaching your employer will be beneficial in this matter.
3. Research about new jobs and new location
Recently we helped one of our clients hire a software engineer who was relocating from a smaller city to a bigger city. Jobseeker was excited for the job opportunity but nervous about basic logistics. As a recruitment consultant involved in the process, we made sure, he got accommodation for the initial few days. Also, our client helped their new employee with certain property broker's contacts, who helped him find accommodation. I remember placing a senior professional with a leading bank many years ago. Jobseeker informed us that their new employer got him a full breakfast with flowers and a welcome note. Small details but it matters. So, while these things are not in your control as a jobseeker, but do proper research about where you will stay in first few days.
How will you manage your commuting, food and other necessities. Having a map always helps. One of the jobseekers, shared with us how his google map didn’t work, when he landed in a new country. But thankfully we had asked him to keep a downloaded version of the map.
4. Knowledge transfer and networking for new Job
If your existing role is being filled by a new person, ensure proper knowledge transfer and complete download of responsibilities. Also. for the new job location, where you will be joining, ensure you know few people. You can ask your employer for a SPOC, whom you can reach if you have any issue. A new place should not be a hurdle for you, and you should be mentally prepared and excited about your new job location
5. Preparing well for surprises
Many times, a jobseeker is all too enthusiastic about the job, employer and responsibilities but they ignore the facts like weather change, time zone, culture etc. We are used to living a certain way, so if you are a vegan and you are shifting to a place where your food might need extra effort. Research about it well in advance. Relocating to a place which has harsh weather, may need extra preparation. Give yourself a few days to acclimatise to the new weather. Read documentaries, speak to your friends and prepare a list of Dos and don'ts.
6. Exploring Your New Environment:
Take time to explore your new surroundings and immerse yourself in the local culture. This can help you feel more at home and discover new opportunities for recreation, networking, and personal growth. Join local activity groups, socialise over weekends and make efforts to know the place better.
7. Staying Flexible and Adaptable:
Be prepared for unexpected challenges and embrace flexibility during the relocation process. Approach new experiences with an open mind and a willingness to adapt, recognizing that adjustment takes time and patience. A positive mindset and looking at the bigger picture, is always helpful while you are undergoing the transition phase.
Relocating for a job can be a transformative experience filled with opportunities for growth and new adventures. By conducting thorough research, negotiating relocation benefits, creating a budget, building a support network, exploring your new environment, maintaining work-life balance, and staying flexible, you can successfully navigate the transition and make your move a rewarding and fulfilling experience.
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