One of the biggest decisions when looking for a new job is where to look for that job. I don’t mean which job site, search engine, networking event; I mean where in the city, state, country, world, wherever that job might be.
When is a good time to start looking for employment in other places? When is it time to broaden that mileage radius for a better opportunity? Is it to make more money? Is it to get a higher status in an organization? Is it to get away from those terrible coworkers? The reasons can be endless and different for everyone, but no matter what the questions, the factors involved with the end-all decision can be various.
When to Relocate for a Job
Here are some scenarios when it might be a good idea.
1. Career Advancement
There are a lot of jobs that can seem like there is no upward mobility; what they call ‘dead-end’ jobs. But what happens when you are offered that chance you have been waiting for, but it is somewhere you never thought of moving?
- Promotion Opportunities: If the new position offers a significant step up in your career, such as a higher title, increased responsibilities, or better long-term career prospects.
- Skill Development: When the job provides opportunities to develop new skills or gain experience that could be beneficial for future career growth.
2. Financial Benefits
Money is always a factor for relocation. Sometimes, it could be where you work is downsizing and another branch or location has an opening. Or perhaps, your expertise is needed to supervise a team of what you do now. No matter the reason for the bump in pay, it may be a worthwhile adventure to explore where that trail of money leads you.
- Higher Salary: If the job comes with a substantial pay increase that outweighs the cost of living in the new location.
- Relocation Package: When the employer offers a comprehensive relocation package that covers moving expenses, temporary housing, and other costs.
3. Personal Life Improvements
What happens if you moved somewhere young, and as you matured and grew, not only in your job, but as a person, as a family, etc., and your current setting doesn’t support your situation? Whether it is better schools, safer neighborhoods, or the hustle and bustle of city life, a change of scenery is a very popular reason to follow that next position.
- Better Quality of Life: If the new location offers a better quality of life, such as a lower cost of living, better schools, or a more desirable climate.
- Family Considerations: When the move benefits your family, such as being closer to extended family, better educational opportunities for children, or employment opportunities for a spouse.
4. Professional Network
Consider a change of location when your desired career is not fiscally manageable where you are now. Sometimes, you have to go where the job is, where the network is, and where you are needed.
- Networking Opportunities: If the new location offers better networking opportunities, proximity to industry hubs, or the chance to work with influential professionals in your field.
5. Work-Life Balance
Another modern trend is that of the super-commuter. Driving, flying, riding a train for hours at a time to get to work, and then that same journey mirrored in order to get home. You will miss so many things besides just sleep: birthdays, graduations, anniversaries, etc. That may be the reason that you need to be closer to your job or bring your job closer to you. Either way, you need to find a job that fits your lifestyle, and that commute can break the camel’s back.
- Reduced Commute: If the new job location significantly reduces your daily commute, improving your work-life balance.
- Flexible Work Arrangements: When the new position offers flexible work arrangements that better fit your lifestyle.
6. Personal Desire for Change
The beautiful thing about a job is that you also have the choice of just not wanting that job anymore. There is a special freedom that goes along with walking into an office and just putting in your notice. But try and hold off on that until you have a backup plan. Also, sometimes, there is no reason to want a new job other than just starting a new adventure, and that is okay. You only live once, and if your job feels like it is killing you, then it might be, so why not pursue something new?
- Desire for a New Experience: If you have a personal desire to experience a new city, culture, or environment.
- Burnout: When you feel stagnant or burnt out in your current position and believe a new environment could rejuvenate your passion for work.
7. Company Stability and Reputation
Unfortunately, in this day and age, there are a lot of companies that don’t feel so stable. As well as those companies that don’t have the best reputations. These are smart to keep in mind when it feels like there is something better suited for you and you just don’t feel morally aligned with the company that you are currently with. There are plenty of companies out there that you can find a good fit with, ethically and morally. But be sure to do your homework first. Most companies have an “About Me” or “Mission” portion of their website, so make sure you do your research before signing up for your next long-term job.
- Company Stability: If the new employer is a stable and reputable company with a promising future.
- Company Culture: When the company culture aligns with your values and work style, promising a more fulfilling work experience.
Before making the decision, it’s crucial to thoroughly research the new location, weigh the pros and cons, and consider both short-term and long-term impacts on your career and personal life. Make sure that you if you have a family, that you allow them to weigh in. Most military personnel know that this is not an option for a lot of Service Members, so for those who have retired or separated, feel free to sleep on it. There is time to make the decision.
