If your employer moved out of state and wanted you to join them, would you? Well, don’t feel bad if you said no. According to a recent poll, 89% of employees said they would look for another job if theirs moved locations. However, if you are a part of the 11% that would move with their employer, you will need a plan before you relocate.
Careful planning for a career relocation is crucial. If you were offered a new job to move out of state, I am sure your first reaction is complete panic, which is why it is important that you think about everything that must happen before you leave your old house and begin your new life.
If you are planning to relocate because of work, you can expect your move to go smoothly and easily if you follow the guidelines in this post, courtesy of the recruiting experts at City Personnel!
The Pre-Move Checklist
Impending moves are one of the most stressful aspects of a job shift. It can be hard to know how and when to begin preparing, especially if you are moving for the first time. Your family and pets are also important to consider. Trying to juggle work life and personal life during this time is going to be hard, but here is where the pre-move checklist comes in.
The list below will help you organize your thoughts and determine the best order to move on to your next adventure.
- Select the real estate agent with the best qualifications.
- Determine your ideal neighborhood.
- Confirm what you can afford to spend on a new home.
- Choose between buying and renting.
- Inspect your home before you buy it.
- Arrange for utilities/internet to be turned on at your new house.
- Have your moving boxes delivered directly to your new address.
- Rent self-storage to help with overflow.
- Check out schools and childcare and make sure you verify them.
- Look into daycare options for pets.
- Make sure to have all the necessary documentation (copy employment offer letter, proof of your funds).
- Prepare a list with all the items in your house that will be moving with you.
Finding the Right Home
There are many qualities you’ll likely want in your new home, but The Masiello Group notes that an important one is your commute. Even if your company isn’t moving out of state, many employees actually choose to move for a shorter commute.
It is important to find a house that has a reasonable commute to your work or is close enough that you can even walk to work (not usually possible, but we have heard of it)! Alternatively, your new home could be near public transportation options such as a subway or bus station. And even sometimes more important than a close commute to your office, you want to consider the proximity of grocery stores, parks, schools, dining, and healthcare facilities.
It’s also important to find a home that is in your price range. It can be tempting to commit to a larger home just because you have prequalified for a larger amount, but this is a bad long-term decision. It will cause additional financial strain over time, especially if your job moves again.
Instead, look at the current market and figure out how much equity you have in your current home. Instead of buying, consider renting a home, which will require much less of a down payment and can save you money in other ways, such as not having to keep up with home maintenance or paying for property taxes. Again, invest the time it takes to research the market and see what properties are affordable and available.
You can find the perfect place by researching the neighborhoods you’re interested in and then reaching out to your real estate agent who can help you zero in on the ideal properties to choose from.
Adjusting to Your New Career
Moving for work can be exciting, but it can also be stressful. You may find yourself feeling under-prepared for your new position. But fear not. As Monster.com points out, most people experience imposter syndrome at some point in their careers.
Packing Up Your Household Items
You should begin the packing process by first going through your belongings. Now is a great time to go through your items to see if there are things you no longer need. Not only will this make packing easier, but it will leave you with less to move and unpack, too.
You should take extra care when packing for pets and children, as this will make unpacking much easier. Ask your children to help with packing, and allow them to choose a few items for a box they can unpack first once you arrive at your new place.
For your pet, talk to your vet about administering sedatives in the event that your fur baby doesn’t do well with change or road trips. Be mindful of your stress levels too. Your kids and your pet can easily pick up on your stress signals, and this can lead to them acting out.
Begin Your Move
If you’re planning a career relocation, take the time to mentally prepare yourself for the change. Moving is stressful, but it can also be exciting and rewarding. Make sure you have a solid plan in place for your move, consider renting over buying, and don’t be afraid to ask for help from family and friends. When the big day arrives, take a deep breath and enjoy the adventure.
If you are now reading this and realize that you don’t want to move because of your job, don’t worry. We have several amazing job openings near you! Apply today and start your dream job tomorrow!
