Relocation for Your Dream Job Doesn't Have to Be A Moving Nightmare

Relocation can be one of your most stressful life experiences. In fact, experts say moving can be as challenging as divorce or death of a loved one.

Many people are surprised to discover that inadequate planning not only increases relocation stress. Without planning, you also risk increasing your relocation expenses exponentially.

That's right. The most expensive part of moving isn't the moving van. It's recognizing that you've made a huge mistake and trying to recover. Recovery might mean expensive lifestyle shifts, resources to manage stress, or even quitting a job and moving home.

Sadly, many people invest more time setting up a moving van than asking themselves, "Can I be happy here?"

One of the most stressful relocation decisions comes when you get an exciting job offer. At first it doesn't seem like a problem...unless you live in the Midwest and they want you to move to Los Angeles (or vice versa). You wonder if you will find a comfortable home, a place to buy your favorite foods, and even a new friend or two.

The best way to decide is to visit the city on your own, not with a real estate agent or company representative. As you look around, imagine you are an anthropologist studying the local culture. Talk to as many people as possible. Don't ask for advice.Ask for information and first-person stories.

Try to extend your visit so you experience different days of the week and different weather conditions. A city that looks great on a balmy Saturday can seem dismal on a rainy Tuesday when you're trying to get to work.

While you're exploring, stay in touch with an objective friend, family member or paid consultant - someone who will be a sounding board. Often you will realize your decision has been made when you hear yourself saying, "Sure, I can handle a two-hour commute," or, "Of course I can downsize to a 500-square-foot studio apartment for me, my St. Bernard dog, my three cats and my fiance."

This is not the time to grit your teeth and mutter, "I can do this!" You're planning a life, not trying to survive the Marine Corps Boot Camp.

After you've explored awhile, don't be surprised if your offer looks different. You may realize you're getting a great deal. Or you may realize you need to negotiate for a signing bonus. Occasionally you can make your acceptance conditional on finding a place to live.

Bottom Line: Every time I (or my clients) have said "No" to an offer for honest, realistic reasons, a better opportunity seems to turn up, faster than expected. No guarantees but don't be surprised if that is your experience too.

And now I invite you to find out more by visiting Relocation Strategy to discover specific strategies, techniques and tips to take the stress and hassle out of moving.

Article Source: http://www.c3careerarticles.com

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