Relocation, relocation, relocation

How often is the ‘job of your dreams’ just around the corner? What if your ideal job is in another city or even in another country? Would you take the risk, uproot and relocate to seize the opportunity?

Hopefully the answer is that you have already thought this scenario through and asked yourself (and any important social ties) if it is a viable option to relocate. Working in recruitment, one of the key questions I ask people is whether it is realistic for them to relocate for a job and if so where they would relocate to.

London is a popular destination amongst graduates, as are other major cities in the UK; Birmingham, Manchester and Bristol for instance. When asked if you would consider relocation, do pause to consider… do you have enough money to live in London, remember the cost of living in major centres is usually higher? Would you miss living far away from your family? Would you be able to live the same lifestyle or have the same standard of living?

To help whittle down realistic options, I always ask if the individual has ties to a certain location; friends, family or previous knowledge of a particular place. There are many factors that affect an individual’s decision to geographically widen their job search. Whether you are footloose and have an interest in travel and to live in new locations, or you have a family that are settled in school and a local community; relocation is a serious question that needs consideration.

With so much to think about and the fear of missing out on that elusive perfect job, it is easy to tell your recruitment company that you would be open to relocation anywhere, without the right research. This is a mistake. If further down the line at interview stage you get cold feet or realise relocation is not a viable option, it may not be well received!  

Know the extent of your options; would you relocate 50 or 100 miles? Is relocating abroad an option? It is up to you to restrict or widen your job search and pass on these parameters to your recruiter so that they can effectively find you the right job that is in the ‘dream location’.