What to consider when relocating for a job

 

 Whilst your skills and experience certainly lend themselves to certain types of jobs, they aren’t the only things you should consider when applying for a new position, particularly when looking to relocate.  Whilst you may be thrilled to get that job in a new city, don't underestimate the difficulties involved.  From financial strain to fitting in with your new co-workers, you may experience a lot more stress than you anticipated.

So, before responding “Yes” to our question “Are you willing to relocate?” please seriously consider the following:

 

• Do your research with regards to salary expectations of the new area you want to relocate to, especially if you are moving from a small town/area to one of the larger cities like Johannesburg, Cape Town and Pretoria.  Determine the job you want to have in the new town. This may or may not be the same as your current job - when determining your job, assess your current skills and qualifications to determine what type of jobs you are good at.  Decide which city you want to work in - do research on the city, including the cost of living and salary statistics. Salary statistics reveal how much you can expect to be paid for specific job position, based on geographic location.  

• Note that you cannot expect that your new employer can cover your increase in living expenses if the salary is not market related in the area or for your skills - think this through before you apply/go for an interview since you do not want to waste the employers time if your salary increase is not viable, remember, most agents and organisations will ask for your current salary and make a offer on this.

• Other things to consider before deciding on a city include the climate, culture, public transport and school systems, if you have children.  Before deciding to move to a city you are unfamiliar with, plan a scouting trip.  This gives you a firsthand look at what the city is like.

• Perhaps the most obvious facet of relocating is the expense involved.  Even if your new company provides you with a relocation allowance, the costs can really add up. Don't underestimate the expenses of the removal truck, deposits or down payments on a new home, fuel, temporary accommodation, food, etc. If you don't plan for these setbacks, the stress may interfere with your ability to begin your new job successfully.

• Keep in mind that rent and travel expenses will be more in larger cities than smaller cities and towns  - Ask yourself, will your new salary expectations cover living expenses in new area? Can you cover your own travel and relocation cost if the company does not cover this?

 

A move can be highly stressful. You won't know how to get around your first few days and may get lost on your first trip to the store. You may feel lonely because you left friends and family behind.... or your church. Similarly, your wife and kids may have also left friends behind, and your kids must now acclimate themselves to their new school. Chaos is likely to ensue for several weeks or months as you unpack, wait for your house to sell, decide on decorations for your new living quarters and learn your way around the city.

Once however, you have carefully considered all the parameters, accepting a new job in a new city/town can be wonderfully exciting and full of opportunities! 
Read 10 Reasons Why You Should Move to Another City in Your 20’s