Tuesday October 11, 2011
Have you ever been approached by your employer about the possibility of being relocated? If you have, then you are not alone. Every year there are thousands of employees who are asked to relocate.
The reasons vary widely. Many times, businesses are looking for areas from which to run their business where the operating costs and tax structures are friendlier to them. As a result, they may consider relocating a portion of their business which may mean relocating their employees as well.
A relocation for you and your family is a big decision, and it is one that will vary personally from family to family and scenario to scenario.
Of course, there will be pros and cons to any situation to consider and weigh.
Here are a few of the possibilities:
1. Securing your job
The first and biggest advantage of a relocation may come in the form of keeping your job. Clearly, if a relocation is required to keep your job, the decision may already be made for you, unless you wish to polish up your resumé and re-enter the job market.
You may, however, have the option to relocate to enhance your career with the company as opposed to relocating to keep your job.
2. A fresh start
One of the advantages of relocating for many people is the idea of a fresh start in a new environment. Individuals and families sometimes feel as though they just need a change of scenery.
3. Cost of living
The cost of living in another location can be an advantage or a disadvantage. If the company is moving to an area to lower its costs, the same move will impact your personal cost of living too — an advantage for you in this case.
An area with a lower cost of living can also mean that you may be able to afford a nicer house in a better area. You may even consider buying a home.
4. Who pays what
If you have been approached by your company to relocate, find out how much of the costs will be picked up by the company and how payment or reimbursement will be made.
Relocating yourself, your family or both is not cheap, so be very clear about what type of participation the company is willing to offer.
5. Family matters
Relocating is certainly more difficult if a family is involved, particularly if your spouse has a job that he or she enjoys and has been with the company for a long time.
If you have teenage children, they may find the thought of relocating less attractive if it means leaving their school and their social network behind.
At this point, the relocation option truly becomes a family decision and everyone’s input should be considered seriously.
6. Time your move
Negotiate for a date to relocate that suits not only your company but you and your family as well. You and your family members need time to get organised, tie up loose ends and complete personal tasks and obligations.
Relocating can mean a fun and exciting new start and a chance to move up the career ladder. You just need to pay attention to all the details to ensure the best decision is made for everyone involved. — Source: ST/ANN
Article by T.J. Lashley, who especially enjoys writing on family, home, and everyday topics.