By Pallavi Anand, Director, Robert Half Hong Kong
Uprooting your life for a position in a new city is a huge endeavour. Whether you have accepted a job offer with a new company, or a position within your current organisation, it is important to consider what factors would make a move worth the effort.
1. Compensation for the new position
What should professionals consider before making a move for their career? Start by looking at the big picture. Make sure you are aware of all factors involved in relocating, rather than focusing on a single element of the job. For example, will you receive any housing allowance? Will your company cover relocation expenses? Will you need a car or does the city have a good public transportation system? If you do need a car, will your company cover parking expenses?
2. Quality of life
Though a company may provide a solid benefits and compensation package according to the cost of living in the new city, would you be comfortable living in the new city? 31% of executives polled in a survey by Robert Half recently said the quality of life in a new city would be the most influential factor in their decision to move. You may want to examine elements of the proposed geographic area, such as weather conditions, school system and cultural events. If possible, try to arrange a short trip to the new city ahead of the move, or talk to friends and colleagues already living in the new city. In addition, you should take into consideration any potential tax implications of working in the new country.
3. Status
Are there opportunities for further growth with the firm? Will you be able to work on the types of projects you enjoy? Will you be given the resources you need to succeed? Are you prepared for a different working culture in a new country? The excitement of moving to a new city will soon subside. It is important to have a good understanding of your new position and ensure you are positive about the opportunity, as you are going to spend the majority of your time at work.
4. Distance of move
In addition to moving assistance, you should also ask your company if it is possible to arrange job-placement services for your spouse, and whether they will provide return tickets for you to visit friends and families back home. Your spouse may not be allowed to work in the new country due to visa restrictions. If you are moving to a city far away from your hometown, you will not be able to catch up with your friends and families easily due to different time zones. You will have to make efforts to make new friends and build up a new life elsewhere. You should think carefully if the opportunities presented by the new job are likely to outweigh the risks you are taking for the move.
5. Family considerations
Even if relocating is a smart professional move, you also must determine if it is right for you personally. Does relocating come at a good time for you and your family? Are family members going to enjoy the new location, or will they resent losing friends, changing schools or having to find new employment? Can you afford the move and the cost of living in the new location? Relocation can be a beneficial career move, as long as you examine all the factors associated with pulling up roots. While a move to a new city can be exciting, it’s important to remember that for some the best choice is to stay put and wait for the next opportunity.
Paul Arkwright
Publisher
