October 13, 2013

What Every Job Seeker Needs To Know About Relocating

There are thousands of jobs out there. Employers are hiring and looking for people like you. We know – just take a look at the job board.

Why are you not getting hired? It may be because the jobs that are hiring, aren’t located near you. If you’re frustrated, maybe it’s time to consider relocating.

Moving is not an easy process. It’s time consuming and costly, but the payoff is well worth it. When you consider relocating for work, the amount of jobs you can apply for drastically increases. From entry level positions to highly specialized careers, there are opportunities out there.

Try something right now. Open up the JobMonkey Job Board in a new window. Do your typical job search. Now search for jobs based only on the job title or industry – not location. When you don’t consider location, are there more options? Why not start applying for these jobs? Allow your skill set, network, and professional experience to help get a job offer.

Before you relocate, ask yourself these questions to see if relocating is a reasonable option for you:

  1. Can you afford the move? – It’s always a good idea to have a savings fund ready to go, until you’re settled in
  2. Can you support your lifestyle with your salary? – A salary of $35,000 can go a long ways in rural Indiana, but you may only be scraping by in New York City. Consider the costs of your rent, food, leisure activities, etc.
  3. Will your new company pay for your relocation? – Sometimes you can convince an employer to pay for your moving expenses. It doesn’t hurt to ask!
  4. Are you eligible for a tax break because of your move? – That’s right you can get a break on your taxes when you move. Ask your accountant for details.
  5. Are you moving for the long term or just the season? – This will determine lots of things about your relocation.
  6. How can you get involved once your there? – Being social is important. Be sure to make friends.
  7. Do you have any network there? – Better check in on LinkedIn.
  8. Where will you live? – Research your new home. Is it better to rent or buy? What part of town do you want to live in? How long’s the commute?

Relocating is a scary thought, but it can allow you a fresh start and it can change your perspective on life. Making a move across the country or to the other side of the world is intimidating, but it may be the best thing you’ll ever do. New location, new employer, new job – it’s exciting.

If you love the mountains, why not work there? If the beach is your thing head there. If you enjoy the big city life, do it. If you desire rural living, give it a try. If you don’t like your new lifestyle and job, you can always go back. If you don’t go, you won’t know what you’re missing. And if you hate it, you can always bail and go back home to try the local job market again.

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