To move for a job or not to move for a job…That is the question. There are many factors to consider when thinking about taking a new job in a new city. I recently uprooted myself from the Profiles DC office to work in our Philadelphia office and can give you a little insight into what 5 factors I considered before ultimately deciding to move for my job.
- Relationships: Will anyone else be affected by this move? If you are single and in your 20’s and love to travel you may be more apt to taking a position half way across the country. However, if you are in a serious relationship, married, or have children there is much more to think about. Has your significant other achieved great success in their current position? If your significant other is in a great situation now, you have to consider would this move be forcing them to give that up, ultimately leaving that position may not be a great idea. If children are involved you will need to look into new schools, be it, either public or private, depending on your budget.
- Cost of Living: How will the cost of living affect your paycheck? Every city is different and every city has a different cost of living. New York City has a much greater cost of living than a city like Columbus, OH. A lower salary and a higher cost of living could drastically alter the life you are used to living. To calculate cost of living: http://www.nerdwallet.com/cost-of-living-calculator/
- Career Growth: Will this move help further your career? If you are serious about making a move for a position you have got to do your homework. Is this the best possible move for you to make to help in the advancement of your career? If you are looking to climb the corporate ladder quickly and relocation is the only way to do so than the move could be a very wise one.
- Moving Costs: Will your company help with the move? Make sure to calculate your relocation costs to determine if the relocation package is sufficient. Some companies will offer top dollar and cover any and all moving costs that you incur. If the company is not able to pay for relocation, you have to weigh the opportunity vs. financial sacrifice.
- Quality of Life: What is important to you? Living in a small city vs. a big city, public transportation, entertainment, sense of community, etc are all factors that could impact your move. Do your homework on your potential new city. Check out if there are organizations that you would be interested in joining in order to meet new people and network.
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Author Name – Jessica Gundling
Title – Recruiter
Location – Washington, DC
Twitter – @JessGund
Byline – Jessica is new to the recruiting world, and has been learning a tremendous amount about the industry. She is fascinated by the interactive space, and you can find her at different networking events where she is always eager to meet interesting people.
