These seven strategies will help you relocate successfully, whether you’re moving within Britain or going overseas.
1. Make use of any relocation package
These, of course, tend to be the more generous the less likely you are to want to move to the new location. Some oil companies who need to send employees to parts of the world that are difficult to live in pay double pension and give double holiday or a salary enhancement – they have to, because otherwise employees refuse to go.
You can at least expect moving expenses to be paid, and help with housing costs for a period.
2. Make use of your networks
If the relocation is an assignment, it’s highly likely that others are already working in the location you’re going to. Contact HR and ask if they can put you in touch with people. If you’re lucky, you may find someone who is coming back as you’re going out. You may be able to use their apartment and buy anything you need from them at a knockdown price.
3. Do your research on living costs
You’ll be disappointed if you find that your new higher-paid job involves living in an area where the housing costs eat up your extra salary, leaving you no better off than before. So research the cost of living using a tool such as this one from The telegraph.
4. Test the water
Renting is an ideal way to start. It means you can ask people at work where the nice neighbourhoods are and what kind of houses are found in which locality before deciding to buy. In Europe, many people don’t buy their houses, so renting is a far more secure proposition than in the UK.
5. Consult your partner
Look at ways that the move could work for your partner. If your partner cares for the children, try and find out what kind of social life they can expect with other parents.
6. Use a professional employee relocation company
They are used to moving people long distance and overseas. Check out a website that gives you a feel for what the process involves, such as DT moving website.
7. Use Google
Research the negatives as well as the positives, so you get a realistic picture of your new location.