5 promising reasons to embrace a job relocation

Debating whether to pack your life up and throw yourself into a whole new chapter can be a terrifying position to find yourself in.

Current trends in job relocation:

• SEEK research discloses that post-pandemic, 34% of Australians intend to relocate seeking change in employment, in the next 6 months.
• According to a job relocation survey conducted by Allied – a renowned US moving company, the biggest motivator for moving for a job was career advancement or the potential for a higher salary. This accounted for 36.96% of the 1000 individuals surveyed.
• Across the globe, Impact Group HR found that in 2018, 75% of employees who relocated for work reported high engagement.

Reason 1: Advance your career prospects

Generally, people consider relocating due to better career opportunities or as a stepping stone into a more advanced position.

With any life choice, and more specifically in terms of careers, there is a risk of loss or opportunity for gain. It may be worth assessing whether the benefits outweigh the costs, and if so –  there’s your reason to relocate for a job.

If the potential opportunities are too good to pass up, then you have your answer. It is likely that the prospect of a higher position, more flexible arrangements that accommodate better to your needs, or a step closer to having your dream job may outweigh the reluctance to leave behind friends or family, or desire to stay within your comfort zone.

Globalisation Partners, a platform assisting companies in expanding globally, identified the difficulty many employers face in relocating employees with families. As family and friends can be an indispensable part of life, we recommend staying in touch via frequent messaging and calling – video chats will be your best friend. If you or your family can do so, consider taking time off to visit each other.

Reason 2: Increased salary, or salary benefits

If you find yourself asking; ‘Is relocating for a job worth it?’ Consider the salary benefits.

SEEK showed that the average salary in the role of a Human Resources Consultant ranges from $90,000-$110,000 in Victoria, yet in Queensland, it was $70,000-$90,000. Salaries for Construction Managers in Victoria range from $155,000-$175,000, however, in Western Australia, it ranges from $185,000-$205,000.

This is where a change in scenery and career will financially benefit you, providing the opportunity to afford a better lifestyle – not just for yourself but for your family as well. When income varies tremendously for the same role across different states or countries, it makes sense to incur a few short-term costs for long-term benefits.

Furthermore, if the relocation position offers better insurance, extended health care or a retirement plan, these may also contribute to an employee’s willingness to relocate. Metlife statistics show that 86% of employees saw health insurance as a must-have in an organisation, and 79% saw a defined retirement plan as another.

Reason 3: Embrace change & learn new things!

Are you someone who enjoys a fast-paced environment, or enjoys being kept on your toes?

Relocating is the right option for you! The ability to pack up and launch into a whole new environment will most likely be both physically and mentally stimulating.

Whether you are young and seeking adventure, or comfortable and well-progressed in your life, you will find that relocating will teach you many new skills and lessons that may be applied in your work ethic. Matthew Bidwell, a researcher on work and experience patterns, says that relocating for work in a new city is a “sure-fire way to round out your skills and experience”.

Nothing is permanent, and even a temporary change will alter your life – for the better! There is always the option of coming back, however, there may never be the opportunity to relocate in future endeavours. Everybody needs a little bit of change at some point.

Reason 4: Build and develop your career connections

Often from a career perspective, connections are key. Sometimes it isn’t about what you know, but who you know, that can build your career pathway. Furthermore, everyone you meet teaches you something new, and every meaningful relationship you form has long-lasting positive impacts on your health and well-being.

Not only will you be starting from scratch in your workplace if you relocate, but also in your neighbourhood, local coffee shop, and the broader community. This provides you with the experience of adapting to different social settings and stepping out of your comfort zone or close circle. This could be your chance to improve your interpersonal skills and meet new people, an important skill in almost any job, allowing you to build further connections in the corporate world.

Each new person you meet might just connect you one step closer to the job of your dreams. So, if you’re still wondering ‘Should I relocate for my job?’ Know that it will grant you a chance to meet the people vital to your career success, as well as build your support network – a fundamental need for most.

Reason 5: Personal growth & independence

If you are someone who values self-improvement and personal growth, then moving is the right choice for you!

Venturing into uncharted territory may change the way you see, think and do in the world. Sometimes, being vulnerable prompts you to act in the most courageous ways. You may receive support from friends and family, but ultimately if you are moving away from them, you must figure things out on your own.

Relocating for work allows for one to become more independent, and adventurous and creates unfamiliar situations that encourage an open mind and new perspective. With that, there is a high likelihood of developing stronger intellectual, social and emotional intelligence, many of which are essential skills in a workplace to succeed.

Daniella Rankin, Marketing Manager at Gentle Giant Moving Company identified her most satisfying moment in her career as being her relocation; allowing her to “learn new things and face new challenges every day. It forces me to keep thinking outside the box”.

The bottom line

All the skills you will learn and develop throughout your relocating experience may also translate into your career – allowing you to be the best and most comfortable version of yourself in your new job.

So don’t wait! If you have been offered the privilege of relocation for better career and life prospects, take these reasons to relocate for a job as your opportunity to do so – now! Don’t let yourself live with regret.

If you’re ready for your next role, check out our jobs here and see where your next venture could take you!