If you get offered a new job in a different city, or even abroad, you could be torn trying to make the right decision. Maybe your company has offered you a promotion, but it’s in a different location, or you’ve been headhunted for your dream job – which happens to be on the other side of the world. Whatever the circumstances, it’s important to weigh up the pros and cons of relocating for work, and whether it’s the right decision at this stage in your life.
We’ve put together some things to think about, so you know you’re completely ready to take the plunge. Packing up your life and starting somewhere fresh, where you probably don’t know anyone, is a huge decision so make sure you do think it over before agreeing (your employer will understand you’ll need time to consider).
If you are open to moving for your career, make sure you are doing it for the right reasons. Will you really have better career prospects, are they offering you a better salary? It’s a huge inconvenience so if it is your current employer which has suggested relocating, they should be offering you an attractive benefit in some form. Also think about if you will have a better work/life balance after moving. Will you have a shorter or longer commute, or flexible working opportunities which aren’t offered in your current role?
Also consider why your employer would like you to move to a different office, and what’s in it for them. Is it a long term position or do they just need you to fill in until they find a replacement? Do they think you would be perfect in a new position? See who will get the most benefit out of your relocation.
Uprooting can have huge effects on the other people in your life. You may have a partner or spouse to consider, or even children. How will relocating affect them? Maybe you have just bought a house and it wouldn’t be suitable to re-mortgage and buy another house so soon. Even if you don’t have a partner or dependents to consider, sometimes it is too much for people to leave behind parents and close friends. Maybe you have elderly parents – how would they cope without you? Although it is ultimately your decision, it can’t be a selfish one. However, if you really think it’s the right choice then loving family and friends should ultimately be supportive.
Although you’ll primarily be moving to work, don’t forget that you’ll also be living in that city or town for the foreseeable future. Is it somewhere you’ve also wanted to live? Have you ever been there at all? If not it may be a good idea to visit, if it’s not too far away, before making the commitment. If you like the peace and quiet and country walks with your dog, then you might not be happy living in the centre of London!
If you do decide to take the plunge, then it’s time to consider the financial costs of relocating. If you’re moving positions with your current employer, they should offer financial assistance to cover the costs. If you’re moving to a new company, make sure you compare removals prices and get the best deal.
