People across the globe of all ages will tell you that they’ve transitioned from one job to another, and more frequently than you might think. The average person will change jobs five to seven times over the span of their career. In fact, research indicates that 52% of employees are considering making a career change in 2021 for a broad variety of reasons. Some young professionals are seeking out a higher salary, while others may be advancing their career in a leadership position with a new company. With the prevalence of remote work, employees also have the opportunity to commit to a position at an organization in a different state or even country. No matter the nature of your career change, there are a number of steps to take before making the move. To prevent missing any crucial details when planning your career transition, here are some steps to take that you can’t skip over.
Idealize your dream job
When it comes to a career change, you need to be entirely confident in both your reasons for leaving as well as your list of needs and wants in a career. Before the job search, create an image of what your dream job looks like and decide what qualities in a job are most important to you. Think about career advancement opportunities, flexibility, and benefits – which are nonnegotiables? Additionally, list your career goals and decide if a potential company would support those goals. Knowing your career standards will prevent you from wasting time interviewing with companies that aren’t the right fit. Quitting a job is a life-changing decision, especially if you’re uprooting your entire life for a new and exciting career, which is why you must have the utmost confidence in all matters involving the transition.
Budget for moving expenses
In the event that you’re moving to a new location for a job, finances should be a primary concern, like any major life milestone. Before signing an offer, ask yourself: can I afford to move? Relocating long-term might consist of buying a home, transporting your belongings, storing items, and the general costs of travel, whether by air or car. All of these factors can exponentially increase your total bill, which can rack up $7,500 for a long distance move. When you add the inevitable home buying costs like real estate agent fees, down payments, closing costs, and property taxes, there are tens of thousands of dollars that need to be accounted for, making cushioning your savings a vital step in a career move.
Negotiate a relocation package
When you start to feel intimidated by the steep prices of relocating, don’t forget that some companies offer benefits known as employee relocation packages. This offering consists of financial assistance, referrals, and educational support when it comes to moving for a new job. More specifically, a company might offer a lump sum to cover the cost of moving, refer you to a network of local real estate agents, recommend an online resource with homes for sale or reputable moving companies in your area. Depending on your situation, you can negotiate other conditions into the agreement as well, like temporary housing, child care, or other familial support. Be sure to explore this option throughout the interview process with clear communication about your expectations before accepting the job.
Learn about your new city
While you might decide that your next job is the perfect one for you, it’s also important to consider whether the city is the right place for your new home. Is there a nearby neighborhood with reputable schools where you can raise your family? Does the city support your fitness habits, your pets, or your eco-friendly lifestyle? Most importantly, consider the cost of living to accurately compare your old and new salary. The costs of income taxes, utilities, food, health care, and other aspects of daily life might differ drastically from your hometown, affecting how much money you bring in at the end of each day. Research and compare local costs of living prior to making any commitments.
Once you have a clear idea of your dream job, what motivates you, and what you’re willing to sacrifice, your career transition can be smooth regardless of the number of steps in the process. Don’t let the unknowns stand in your way – cease any opportunities that could skyrocket your career path, and keep your family and your finances at the forefront of your mind.
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