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Relocation, relocation, relocation

By Danny Chadburn

Moving house and getting a new job rate as two of the most stressful challenges for Brits, so when they combine it’s hardly surprising that it can turn out to be a bumpy ride. Relocating can be a liberating, life-changing experience – but it can also turn out to be one long ordeal of homesickness as you miss your friends, family and local pub.

If the relocation is your idea, rather than a situation forced upon you by an employer, it’s best to start by listing the places where you really want to work and live.

Our search by location function will quickly let you know if the jobs you’re interested in are available in the chosen area. You should also sign up with a local recruitment agency which can give you advice on jobs and salaries, as well as areas to live and expected costs.

Picking the right location is important, but so is the right attitude, so check our tips to make your move successful:

Do the sums
Before accepting a job you should run a check on fundamentals, such as the price of living in the new town. Make sure the salary on offer is sensible. It’s easy to accept a higher salary than you are currently on but end up with less disposable income due to higher living expenses. Remember to include changes in travel expenses in this estimate.

Out of town
Living out of town used to be the death knell for career-minded individuals, but technology has changed all that. Small towns in beautiful areas of the country have become popular destinations for smaller companies since the broadband revolution. So if you want to leave the big city, you’ll be able to get the best of both worlds. A career with a smaller company could offer you job prospects without the slog and expense of a daily commute – with the added bonus of spectacular views.

Picking a town
What makes a good town is a matter of taste. If you need good rail or road links and an airport nearby for your job, make sure those elements are near the top of your wish list. Will you enjoy the lifestyle and culture? Most people’s requirements include good places to eat and drink, sporting facilities, cinema, schools and access to clubs and interest groups. Each city has its own way of life and you should check local listings magazines for a “what’s on” guide.

Getting connected
Unless you’re a professional hermit, location by itself will not do it. People can make or break your new job and you should be aware of regional differences when it comes to socialising and the opportunities to network with other professionals.

Family fortunes
What will be the impact on your family of moving to a new job? Try to think through all the implications of the move. Consider schools and opportunities for your partner to find work or friends.

Making friends
There’s a temptation to think that if you’re putting in the networking, a social life will happen overnight. But if you’re in a foreign country or just a new town, it might take a while to tune into the local ways and read the social signals correctly.

Moving country
If you’re intending to move country for your new job, expect the upheaval to be more dramatic. As well as the excitement and challenge of a new culture and language, there are a hundred and one practical obstacles to overcome.

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