If your employer asks you to relocate, it could be a request that you can’t pass up. That is because it may come with a promotion or a significant pay raise or type of benefit that could significantly impact you or your family. However, it could also be a request that could significantly disrupt your life. Let’s take a look at what you should consider when it comes to determining whether or not to relocate for a job.
Where Are You Moving To?
The biggest question that you need to ask yourself is whether your destination is an alluring one or not. For those who like to ski, being asked to move to Colorado or Utah could be a dream come true. However, if you hate the cold weather or don’t feel comfortable with the social values of your new location, it may not be worth moving. Likewise, moving to Texas might not be a place that those who despise the heat might not want to move to either. Yet, choosing where your company relocates to may not be your decision. In private, make your feelings known about how you feel about the new location. Your employer may even be willing to let you work from home or add some extra perks to get you to agree to do the relocation.
How Does This Impact Your Career?
If relocating is what you need to do to get a raise or a promotion, it may be in your best interest to move. This may be especially true if you are given the chance to move back home after you gain some experience in your new position. However, if you feel like you can get the same or better job without moving, it may not be in your best interest to do so. Just make sure that you look around and get something set up before quitting and deciding not to move.
How Complicated Is the Move?
As even a small move can be complicated, a large move across the state or country may be more trouble than it is worth. In addition to moving your things from one house to another, you have to consider where your kids will go to school or whether you can find a new home in your price range. You may even want to consider whether or not you’d need any help in the process. In that case, you should get your company to compensate you using a service, such as Wheaton World Wide Moving, to help you out.
Have You Been Looking to Leave?
Relocating for a job could represent a fresh start in a city or state where no one knows your past. If you have recently been divorced or otherwise gone through social turmoil, it may be the best chance that you get to start fresh. Even if you aren’t happy with your new job, you can always quit and find other work in your new hometown.
If your company asks you to move for another job opportunity, there is no guarantee that complying is the right decision. Only you know whether it is in your best interest to move yourself and your family to a place where you may or may not know anybody. The best advice may be to talk with your family and any others who could be impacted by the decision to build consensus before making a choice.
