While perhaps common, relocating for a job is not always easy. You can be leaving behind the familiar and immerse yourself in an entirely new place with a unique role to play in your career, both of which can come with a fair amount of stress. Here are a few tips to keep in mind during the process.
1. Explore the New City
If the timing allows, get to know your new community before you move. Research, visit and explore the neighborhoods in your new area to make sure you find the ideal one for you and your lifestyle.
If you can’t visit the new city before your move, talk to some people who live there or used to live there. Then, read the local news or social media sites to get a perspective on the area and learn what’s happening in your new city.
2. Check Out the Cost of Living
It’s wise to get a handle on the cost of living in the city you’re moving to. There can be significant differences in living expenses among cities and states. Sometimes, these differences are compensated for in your salary, but it’s still essential to make sure.
Use an online cost-of-living calculator to help you project how far your salary will stretch in another city. Then, do the research and plan accordingly.
3. Check on Relocation Assistance
If you are simply transferring to a new location through your current employer, find out if your new company offers relocation assistance. Some employers will offer:
- Assistance in finding a new place to live
- Financial aid to pay for moving expenses, security deposits, and travel
- Resources to help you get to know the area where you are transferring
4. Schedule Enough Time to Settle Into Your New Home
Moving may happen in just one day, but the last thing you need to do is jump right into your new job role before you even get used to your new place. Instead, be sure to schedule yourself a little extra time between moving day and your first day at your new job. This will give you a little time to get your bearings, unpack your necessities, and rest before having to face your new workplace.
5. Build a Good Social Support Network
A little support from friends and family when you are moving is always going to make things easier. However, when relocating to a new city for a new job, these people can become even more critical to your overall well-being. Having a good social support network can:
- Improve your ability to cope with stress
- Help alleviate emotional challenges or distress
- Enhance your general sense of well-being and self-esteem
When you are moving to a new city and stepping into a new job surrounded by strangers, every one of these attributes is essential. Therefore, make it a point to nurture strong social connections in the weeks leading up to your move. You may need a friend, a listening ear, or someone to talk to as you get settled in.
Plan Ahead with Professional Movers
Moving due to a career change can mean facing a few challenges along the way. Make sure you are prepared and have the physical support you need by working with professional movers. Contact us for a free quote.
