Relocating
Whether you’ve just secured your dream job in a new part of the world or are thinking of moving to enhance your job prospects or improve your quality of life, we appreciate that relocating can be a stressful time.
Along with a marriage and moving house, moving jobs has been shown to be one of the most stressful things you can do. And if you’re relocating for work, the chances are you’ll be changing address and job roles at the same time, which can makes things very stressful indeed!
That said, there are many positives to moving. From experiencing a new city and the culture that goes with it, potentially learning a new language, meeting new people and the experiences they can share, and even reinventing yourself, relocating can be a fantastic opportunity.
With that in mind, we have prepared the below checklist to help you stay on top of your big move, and perhaps take a little of the stress out of the move.
Stay on top of your finances
From buying a new home or deposits on a rental, to hiring movers and coordinating new utilities, we appreciate that moving can also mean some short term expenditure. So stay on top of your finances and budget for what you will need and when, and then allocate accordingly. It is possible that you might not need everything at once, so pick things up as you go.
Research your new area
There is much to think about before you go. From where to live, to what the schools are like, to where to go out to eat and drink. It will help enormously if you’ve done your research before you get there. Use the internet to find out as much as you can, including asking questions on open forums. People who live there or have lived there will be only too happy to help – and you may meet some new people who will be there to welcome you when you arrive!
Use social media as a research tool
To complement your work on the internet, don’t forget about the insights that social media can bring also. See if there are any channels specific to the area that you’re moving to, or perhaps look for a Facebook group or Twitter list.
Calculate your quality of life
It’s important to know just what your quality of life will be exactly before you accept a job offer. If you’re moving to a major city it is more than likely that it will be more expensive, but salaries will probably be adjusted accordingly. Some cities will have an excellent quality of life, with green space, restaurants and cafes and culture aplenty, while others may not. Consider what your spending habits will need to look like in your new destination.
Ask for help
If you’re moving for a job, your new employer will clearly want to make things as smooth as possible for you. Ask them if they will offer any assistance. Even if it is just advice on things like where to live, or what the schools are like in a particular area. Some larger employers may also help with the cost of relocation.
Long term
In the short term it may be beneficial to rent before you buy. This will give you an opportunity to ascertain if you like a particular area, and that you fit in with the culture of your new city before deciding if it is right for you to purchase a property.
Friends & Family
It’s quite possible that you will leave friends and family hundreds, potentially thousands of miles away. In this age of globalisation however, remember that with a solid internet connection in most cases they can be contacted at the touch of a button through services such as Skype or Facetime. With increased transport links also, costs for flights and rail fares are increasingly affordable should you wish to travel back or have them visit you.
Schools & Childcare
If you’re a parent your first priority will be your children. So check out the schools and opportunities for childcare in your new destination in advance of your departure.
Stay organised
Start planning as far in advance as possible. Once you have made the decision, start planning out how you will do it. Checklists are a great way of keeping on top of what you need to do. List everything out and tick them off as you go. As well as gaining a sense of satisfaction from ticking things off, it’ll help to keep the stress levels in check.
Opportunities
The opportunities when you move are countless. From meeting new people, to experiencing new cultures, food and places, you certainly won’t be bored!
Interested in relocating to Edinburgh? Download our complementary eBook today to find out everything you need to know on the Scottish Capital.
You May Also Like:-
Preparing for Internationally Based Roles