Thinking about Career Relocation? Here’s What to Consider

Relocating for your career can be exciting and often lucrative. But have you considered all of the factors before making the move?  It’s rare to be offered a relocation package in many industries unless you are very high up the corporate ladder. Assuming that the venture will be on your dime, here are some questions to ask yourself.

Is there plenty of work there?

While you might have a great opportunity in front of you today, consider what your options would be if you were to lose that job in the future. Are there other opportunities in the area, or would you need to, yet again, relocate? If a partner or spouse will be making the move with you, you’ll also need to consider if there are jobs available in their professional field. These are important factors to investigate before committing to moving to another location.

How is the cost of living?

Hopefully the job you are relocating for would be a step forward in your career. Any increase in pay can be appealing, but depending on where you move, it might not be enough. That big city or resort gig may be appealing, but if it comes with extra costs that you don’t currently have, you could end up seeing a decline in your quality of living. Investigate housing costs, transportation options, tax rates and pay ranges to make an informed decision.

Can you negotiate severance or a relocation package?

Packing up your life (and your family’s life) and moving them across the country is a big task. That relocation also takes a lot of financial resources. Are you able to negotiate a severance package with your current employer? Could you get a severance package negotiated when you were hired originally? With your new employer, are they offering a relocation package to help with your move? Will they provide housing (or an allowance) until you find a permanent residence? Will they offer trips to the new area to find housing before your family moves to a new location? If you are the best candidate and they want to bring you on board, then a relocation package is fair to both sides.

Will it advance your career?

Even if you may see a bump in pay with this opportunity, be sure it’s a move that will benefit your career in the long run. If the move is lateral, does it come with growth opportunities with the company? If it is a step up, great! Just be sure it is in line with where you want to see your career go. To move up the career ladder, it helps to demonstrate a willingness to adapt quickly to change and travel to where your skills are required. Multiple lateral moves can sometimes be a red-flag for future employers, so you need to be sure you this opportunity aligns with your career goals.

Can you see yourself living there?

If you love to ski, moving to a tropical location is not the best idea, nor is taking a post is a quaint country inn if you love the nightlife on your days off. Consider the lifestyle offered in any potential location and how it fits into your personal preferences. Check out whatever is important to you whether that means top-notch schools or a vibrant local music scene. Be brutally honest with yourself about what your deal breakers are.

How can a recruiter help?

A recruitment specialist will be able to help you understand the variables in your target markets. Choose a recruiter who focuses exclusively on your industry to ensure that they understand the unique nature of the industry. For more advice on advancing a hospitality, contact the recruiters at Horizon Hospitality. Our hotel recruiters and restaurant recruiters can help you make smart career decisions and connect with top employers nationwide.