How-To Guide: Preparing for Job Relocation

Daunted by the idea of potentially relocating, but excited about the prospect of a new job opportunity? With a little planning and research, you can make moving to a new town for work an exciting opportunity both personally and professionally.

As creatures of habit, the idea of relocating to another city, state, country, or maybe simply a new neighborhood can be intimidating. Being open to relocation, however, also opens you up to lots of new opportunities at work and in your personal life. If you are relocating to fill job openings in Little Rock or another place, consider the following guide to achieve a smooth work-related relocation.

Get to Know the Area

Visit your new area of residence if you can before the move. Ask around to find out more about your new town. Inquire about good neighborhoods, schools, social events, weather, restaurants, culture, grocery stores, or dry cleaners. Read newspapers specific to the area and follow local events to get acquainted with the culture.

Plan Financially

A move, whether for work or other reasons, can be costly. Your employer might help cover some costs of moving, but be sure you are financially prepared to relocate. Get an idea of how your monthly expenses will change by researching the average cost of living in your new town. Save enough to make a deposit on a new apartment or home, pay for unexpected expenses, and cover potentially higher bills until you begin receiving your new salary.

You should also take the time to research any moving-related tax benefits, deductions, or credits, of which you might be able to take advantage. Visit the IRS’s webpage for more information, or ask your accountant to help.

Build a Network

Create a social network for yourself in your new location. Network in order to find friends of friends who live near you and use social media to get in touch with old classmates who might live in the same area where you will be. If you do not have any immediate contacts, sign up for a class, join a gym, or participate in work-organized social events to meet people and create a social support network.

Avoid Long-Term Commitments

Although you might be ready to make a big commitment to your new job position, you should hold off on committing to a new gym, or anything else which requires a location-based contract or lease. Look for an apartment or home with a short lease or ask your employer about staying in temporary corporate housing until you are better acquainted with your new area. This way you will avoid purchasing property or signing a long-term lease in a neighborhood you end up not liking.

Now that you know all of the tricks to an easy move, your location no longer has to limit your job search.

If you’re looking for a new job, check out our Job Openings page + to see what’s available. Apex Staffing specializes in connecting talented job seekers with high-quality, local employers. Our service is completely free for job seekers and we are always accepting applications.