I’m a serial mover. Every role I’ve had with my current company has required me to move across state lines. After a few years in one place, I find myself itching for a new environment, with new challenges.
With all the moving comes some hair pulling moments. Some you might expect, while others can sneak up on you. With 3 moves across state lines, in less than 10 years, you start to get a process in place to help things go smoothly.
Over the years, each move was different:
The First Move: At Eighteen, my parents decided to move, and I had the choice to stay or go with them. I chose to follow them, a decision I am thankful for everyday.
The Second Move: This was my first independent move. Within four weeks, I went from application to relocation with just a box van and my parents’ help. It was a whirlwind of packing, planning, and pure adrenaline.
The Third Move: This move was tougher. Now married with two dogs and a lot more stuff, the process was entirely different. Finding a place post-pandemic within our price range that wasn’t infested borderline unlivable was a grueling search, filled with frustration and compromises.
The Fourth Move: Who knows, the next move could be just around the corner. Fingers Crossed!
During each of these moves, my main focus was always on moving day. It’s natural to plan meticulously for this pinnacle moment, but the truth is, it’s a chaotic day, and something will likely go wrong.
Regardless of the events on the big day, the move will be a success (or a failure) based on the things you do before you even accept the new job offer.
How To Prepare Before You Accept the Offer
After a Good Interview, but Before You Receive an Offer:
You saw a job posting that required relocation and thought, “What the heck, Why not?” You nailed the interview, and now the recruiter is putting together an offer.
Feeling that excitement mixed with a bit of the “fight or flight” response is natural. This is the crucial moment. When the company calls with the offer, you typically have only a day or two to decide, or if you’re lucky, a week.
I’ve interviewed for countless roles, and deep down, I usually know when it went well. If you believe it went well, start thinking seriously about what relocating would mean for you and your family before they extend the offer.
This includes openly discussing the pro’s and con’s with your spouse or partner. Most likely your partner is not as excited about the opportunity as you are, so be sure to really listen openly to their concerns. This will be an emotional conversation, not logical. Keep that in mind and approach it with love and understanding.
Consider the Cost of Living & Moving Before Saying “Yes” To The Big Move
Cost of living is a huge factor. For my second move, I chose Knoxville over Baltimore because it fit my budget better and coming from Michigan, I liked the idea of being in the warm south for a bit.
Step One: Before Applying
Before applying to an out of state job, I do a simple research of the area to ensure I’d be interested in the move at all.
- Research the Location: Do a basic search of the location. Understanding the basics of your potential new city is crucial. Tip: Find the city Reddit page and flip through the commentary. You’d be surprised what you can find out from the locals directly.
- Check Housing Costs: Open Zillow or Realtor and gauge housing prices in various neighborhoods. This gives you a rough estimate of what your new living expenses might be.
- Scan Google Results: Look at the first couple of pages of Google search results for the city. High crime rates or frequent natural disasters? Take note. These factors could influence your decision significantly.
- Use a Cost of Living Calculator: Utilize a cost of living comparison website to understand the financial impact. Websites like Numbeo, Expatistan, and Payscale, can provide a percentage difference in the cost of living from where you are today to where you might move.
**Spend no more than 10 minutes on this initial search to avoid getting too invested before an interview is even scheduled.**
Step Two: Initial Screening
If the recruiter calls for an initial screening, you might soon interview with the hiring manager. The recruiter will confirm your qualifications and might ask for your desired salary. Try to avoid giving a number by saying it’s negotiable or asking for their range. If they insist, share your range.
Step Three: Interview Preparation
When you schedule the interview with the hiring manager, try to set it a few days out to prepare. Getting an interview is a huge win these days, so be prepared to put your best foot forward. Focus on understanding the role, company, and whether it’s a good fit. If the interview goes well and you’re open to relocating, it’s time to decide what you’ll do if offered the role.
Know Your Salary Expectations and Walk Away Number
Before receiving an offer, decide on a “walk away” number. If the offer is too low, either your research was off, or the company is underpaying. Knowing your bottom line gives you the power to walk away without negotiation if necessary.
For example, if your bottom line is $100,000 but you were hoping for $110,000, and they offer $80,000, that’s a significant gap. Politely decline by saying, “Thank you for the offer, but it appears we were far off on the anticipated salary range, and I’m unable to accept.”
Factor in moving costs and how long you’d need to stay at that salary to recoup expenses and still improve your life.
Know Your Personal and Family Impact of Relocating For Work
The hardest part of every move is leaving behind family and friends. Building a support group as an adult can feel impossible, especially if you’re alone in a new area. This decision can only be made by you and your partner, considering the real impact on your lives. It’s not until after the big moving day that the hard work begins.
Should You Relocate for Career Growth
Relocating to further your career is not something to take lightly, it will turn your life upside down quickly. Not everyone can handle the stress involved, but for those who can, it offers exponentially more opportunities for learning, salary increases, and creating the life you ultimately want.
By thoroughly researching, setting clear financial boundaries, and preparing both personally and professionally, you can navigate the complexities of relocation with confidence. Embrace the chaos and trust in your ability to adapt and thrive.