Are you willing to relocate for a job? Maybe you’re having difficulty deciding and you’re afraid it may jeopardize your happiness in your healthcare career. Or maybe you’re ready to make a move but don’t know how to discuss it with potential employers. Choosing whether to make a relocation move for your career is like trying to piece all your personal and professional considerations into a complex puzzle. The relocating process is not only physically challenging but mentally demanding. So, before jumping into a decision, take a moment to acknowledge that you are not alone – many individuals struggle to find the best solution.
Should I Relocate for a Job?
There are several points to consider that will help guide you in your decision making. Harvard Business Review recommends asking yourself the following questions:
- First, think about the opportunity given with relocating. Will accepting this job enhance your career in the long term? Will working at the facility look good on a resume and help you learn new skills?
- Consider the longevity of the job. How long is your employer requiring you to live in the new location?
- Discuss the opportunity with your family and listen to their feedback. Given your circumstances, will any loved ones who come with you thrive in a new location as well?
While these questions may spark a scary sense of reality, they help define your priorities. To avoid feeling overwhelmed, let’s delve into the pros and cons of relocating for your career, beyond the job description.
What Are the Pros to Relocating for a Job?
Relocation comes with extensive changes, but will those changes elevate your personal and professional development?
Let’s talk about the pros waiting for you in a different location, like potentially higher salary and improved benefits.
- According to Zippia, 62% of candidates are willing to relocate for career growth or an opportunity to make more money, which may significantly shape your decision – especially when family members are involved.
- The potential financial incentives from companies will provide a smoother relocating transition. Zippia says 64% of candidates who relocate are given a relocation package from their employer. Depending on your move, relocation packages tend to provide professional movers, airfare, and temporary housing.
- The new city may have a better school district, public transportation systems, and a more affordable cost of living – a crucial factor in today’s economy.
- Beyond salary, benefits, and relocation assistance, relocating can transform you into a more marketable professional, expanding your skill set as you embrace change.
While stepping out of your comfort zone may be intimidating and challenging, it fosters personal growth and expands your network, opening doors to unforeseen opportunities. As you weigh the possibilities, remember that taking advantage of change often paves the way for remarkable achievements in your personal and professional journey.
What Are the Cons to Relocating for a Job?
You may be thinking, “Relocating doesn’t sound too bad. Who wouldn’t want to be the best version of themselves?” However, there are potential challenges that should be considered.
- One major drawback is leaving behind friends and family, typically your primary support network. Are you ready to connect with new people and expand your network? Stepping out of your comfort zone can be intimidating, but with technology, there are easy ways to stay connected with your support group back home and to make new friends in a new place.
- Don’t forget about moving expenses, which can add up quickly. When you’re in the hiring process, ask your potential employer if they cover the cost of relocating. According to a New York Times article, you can try to keep moving costs low and negotiate prices with smaller moving companies. If that is not an option, prepare your budget for moving fees, such as packing services, insurance, and more.
- As a healthcare professional, you might also have to obtain new licenses and certifications if you’re moving to a new state. Ask the company if they offer any assistance in getting these – whether that’s helping you navigate the process or reimbursing you for any fees.
- Whether you’re moving an hour or eight hours away, you could experience a drastic change in the area’s culture. Research your new town or city to avoid culture shocks as not feeling a part of a community can take a toll on you mentally. Again, technology can come in handy as you research what the area is like and try to find groups to join or things to do that align with your interests.
Given your situation, your pros may out-weight the cons and vice versa, but walking through this process can make your decision less complicated.
How to Answer the Interview Question: Are You Willing to Relocate for a Job?
Are you feeling nervous about tackling the interview question on relocation? No need to fret! Here are effective ways to navigate and respond to this question confidently.
If You Want to Relocate for a Job
First, consider your level of interest in the position. If the job excites you and relocation aligns with your goals, you are ready to experience the change. When the interviewer pops the relocation question, emphasize your enthusiasm, giving details on what sealed the deal for you to move. Share how the role aligns with your career goals and highlight the specific benefits of the company and the area that influenced your decision.
If You’re Undecided About Relocating for a Job
Now, if you’re undecided about relocating, consider offering an alternative or finding common ground with your potential employer. Maybe another location within the company intrigues you more. Express your willingness to relocate elsewhere or explore the possibility of working remotely.
Keep in mind that the position may require relocation, so if you need time to think, don’t hesitate to ask for a couple of days to consider it.
If You Don’t Want to Relocate for a Job
If you are not willing to relocate, start by letting the company know that you are excited about the opportunity but are not willing to relocate. Explain to the interviewer why you do not want to relocate. Your transparency can open new conversations about positions the company might have available that do not require relocation, although these might be harder to find in the healthcare industry. However, the health system could have a sister facility closer to your home that offers an easy commute and would be a better fit for you.
Relocation Assistance for Work
Whether you can or cannot give the employer a confident answer right away, ask what they offer for relocation assistance for work. You might find that their relocation assistance package, if they offer one, can help to offset several challenges that come with making a move.
As you navigate these discussions, remember that being true to yourself will make your decision less stressful. Taking your time and evaluating all considerations is the key to making the best decision and finding the best fit for your career journey.
Taking Everything into Consideration
Asking those life-changing questions like, “Should I relocate for a job?” involve careful consideration. While relocating can bring challenges in moving expenses and leaving your family and friends, it can also bring perks in better job opportunities and personal growth. That is why you should evaluate the pros and cons to help depict a clearer picture in your decision making.
Relocating can be an overwhelming concept, however, there is a chance the company you’re interviewing with will offer relocation assistance for work and accommodate your moving needs and expectations. Whether you choose to relocate or not, be honest about your situation and open to alternatives during the interview process.
Ready to Make a Career Change?
If you’re ready to make a career move, Nucleus is here to help you in your journey. Our recruiters have years of experience helping healthcare professionals navigate the job market and find the right fit for each stage in their careers. Get started by viewing our open jobs and joining our talent community to see what opportunities are available for you.
