When you are in the market for a job, you may get frustrated with the lack of job vacancies in your hometown. The situation may seem bleak, yet Statistics Canada reports that for every job vacancy there are 3.3 unemployed people available to take it. The caveat being that you may have to relocate to a new city to take advantage of these vacancies. Being open to a physical move can put you in a great position to find your perfect job.
Before you can make a major move there are many things to consider. Canadianliving.com has a quick list of Pros and Cons to consider when relocating for work:
PROS
1. Increase in salary or seniority
It can be competitive trying to land a promotion or a better job, which is why so many people consider looking for work outside of the city that they live in. If you are offered a significant increase in salary, or a senior position you have been coveting, it can be very enticing to say yes to moving — especially if you have a specialized job, or if competition in your field is fierce.
2. Lower cost of living
Sometimes moving can provide a significant decrease in living expenses, especially when you’re moving from a big city to a small city. Some companies will provide you with a monthly living allowance, company car or other perks to help you lower your expenses after you move.
3. A chance to start over
If you’ve been craving change in your life, whether it’s professional or personal, relocating for a job might be exactly what you’re looking for. A new environment can lift your spirits and give you back the energy you were missing.
CONS
1. Starting over in a new city can be difficult
The prospect of leaving a place where you have friends, family and a network of contacts can be extremely intimidating, and uprooting your life to start over in a new city might not be for everyone. Some people relish change and see it as an adventure, but it takes time to get comfortable in a new environment, make new friends and establish contacts in your industry. So before you decide to relocate, make sure you are willing to put in the effort to start with a fresh slate.
2. Costs of moving can be pricey
Moving can be expensive, and if you’ve been job searching for a while, coming up with that kind of money might really put a strain on your finances. Some moving expenses can be deducted on your tax return, but you will still need to come up with a plan on how you will pay for your move in the likelihood that your moving expenses will come out of pocket. Remember that getting yourself and your stuff to a new city isn’t the only financial cost to relocating. Living farther from your friends and family will generally mean more travel expenses to visit them. And depending on where you’re moving to, costs like rent, transportation and even groceries could increase from what you’re used to.
3. Opportunity for growth
Some careers are transferrable to nearly any city with the possibility of room for growth. However, many others are best suited to certain locations. You might have received a great job offer, but once you outgrow that job, you could be forced to relocate again. Make sure you understand what kinds of opportunities would be available to you in your new city, as well as where you see yourself career-wise in the next five to 10 years.
Have you relocated for work? Would you do it again? Share your experience in the comments below.
Resource:
http://www.canadianliving.com/life/work/the_pros_and_cons_of_relocating_for_work.php