7 Helpful Tips on How to Prepare for a New Job
Life always brings changes. Good changes, bad changes…and we hope the reason that you’re reading this article is that you’re about to make a really good change that will further your career and launch you into a new location. Yes, we’re talking about moving for a job. This is definitely a big commitment, since you’ll be pulling up stakes and physically relocating in order to pursue your career.
But going to the trouble of moving can be so worth it! Whether you’ve already got a job before your move or if you’re planning to relocate and then look for a job, this blog post has your back. We’ve packed it full of tips for preparing for your new job–actual or potential–as you plan on moving to a new city. If this describes your life right now, keep reading!
Here are the seven tips on how to prepare for a new job:
1. Apply for jobs properly
If you haven’t gotten a job yet, but you’re still moving to a new location, you’re probably planning to send your resume to a bunch of places. It’s important, however, to leave your current address off your resume when you apply. The recruiter could see that you live a hundred kilometres away and instantly disqualify you.
Instead, leave your location off your resume and then explain the missing information in your cover letter (include your reasons for relocating, as this is something a potential employer may wonder about).
2. See if you qualify for relocation help
Another great tip on how to prepare for a new job is to see if you qualify for relocation help. Moving can be expensive, but your company may hire relocation services if available. If you’re moving to a new location, but staying with the same company/employer, this is definitely an option worth looking into.
Even if the official policy offers no help with relocation costs, you could do worse than ask your employer directly (especially if you’re a good, loyal employee). The worst they can say is ‘no’!
3. Change addresses as soon as you have a new one
Once you’ve purchased your new home, it’s important to let everyone know of the change. And not just friends and family–service providers as well! In addition, you’ll want to check out different websites online that you regularly use to purchase items.
Change the shipping address so that packages don’t end up at your old home. You will probably also need to notify your bank of the address change.
4. Determine to be social once you arrive
If you’re an introvert, you might really enjoy being by yourself–and the thought of parties may freak you out. But you can’t really thrive without a network of people who you like–and who like you. That’s why, when you make the move for your new job, you need to be open to opportunities to socialize.
Accept invitations, maybe join a class or a club, and make some new friends. It’s wonderful to have some people who can support you as you make this transition to a new location.
5. Take a tour of your new surroundings before the move
Before you take the plunge and move a ways away for your work, it’s an excellent idea to take a look at where you’ll probably be spending the next several years of your life. Yes, you’ve probably toured your new home or apartment at least once. But what about the rest of the area? Don’t just rely on the internet for lists of good restaurants and stores in your area!
Instead, maybe take a day trip and drive around the area, making note of different locations that are important to you. Additionally, it’s a good idea to check out your new place of work (maybe ask for a guided tour?) so that it’s not so strange and unfamiliar on your official first day of work.
6. Find out if you can get some sweet tax deductions
Tax deductions–you’ve gotta love them, right? Well, did you know that moving for work might net you some tax deductions? It’s true! You’ll need to do some research on the details, if you qualify, what the laws are in your area, etc. But it’s definitely worth looking into, as those deductions are pretty great.
7. Get as much done before you move in
When you arrive in your new city and start your first day of work, you don’t want there to be a ton of distractions as you head off to meet with your new employer and start pulling your weight around the office. Instead of worrying about whether you switched over all the utilities or changed addresses for all your bills–or any number of other things–make sure you take care of all the little details before you even move in.
Of course, there may be a grace period between when you make the move and when you actually start work, but it’s a good idea to get all the details worked out before you move anyway (as many details as you’re able). Make plenty of lists to keep yourself organized and so that you don’t forget any stray detail. You’ve got this!
