MOVING FOR A JOB? FIVE FACTORS TO CONSIDER
Opportunities for a job – or a better job – vary by community. No matter your education or skills, finding work may depend on location. WalletHub compared more than 180 U.S. cities based on 30 indicators of job-market strength ranging from job opportunities to employment growth to monthly average starting salary. Learn more here. Before taking a job in another town, there is a lot to consider. Let’s explore five topics.
#1 The job and the company
Is the company likely to be around for a while? How is the company’s culture? How do you feel about the potential new boss? Will the new work challenge you? Is it something you can and want to do?
#2 Family and relationships
What will it be like to leave your parents, siblings or longtime friends? If you are in a relationship, what are your significant other’s career prospects in the new area? What about their longtime friends and relatives?
#3 Number crunching
Compensation is more than your salary or hourly wage. Look closely at the company’s benefits including health insurance, vacation, retirement and other valuable perks. Review the cost of living and availability of affordable housing in the new work location. If you will need to sell your house, will you have sufficient income to make that house payment in addition to paying for housing in your new location until it sells? What sort of commute will you have? Is public transportation available?
#4 Culture and climate
For some people, culture means a variety of arts, dining, and entertainment; great education options; faith organizations; or regional cultures. Climate conditions can be explored on the Internet so you can understand temperature, rainfall, snowfall and other aspects.
#5 Trust your instincts
Most moves have some bumps; do your homework, ask good questions, expect hurdles and be prepared to work through them.