10 Questions to Ask Your Employer Before Your Relocation

Relocating for your career can be a huge step. Here are 10 questions you need to ask your employer—and yourself—before relocating. 

1. Is this a fit for your family?

Be open and honest with your employer about your personal and family needs. If you have children or older relatives you’re looking after, will your employer help search for child or senior care? Make sure to ask about things such as school systems and recreation options. These will help you determine what part of town you want to settle in.

2. What are you leaving behind?

You will more than likely be leaving friends and family who live close to you. Make sure to factor in a budget for traveling to see loved ones.

3. What will your new commute be like?

You might be set on a certain area of your new city, but make sure not to overlook the commute. Living in the wrong area can be a major mistake if you are going to be spending more time getting to and from work than you are used to. Make sure you are prepared. 

4. Are there strings attached?

Read the fine print of the relocation agreement. Gain an understanding of benefits such as temporary housing, household goods being moved, relocation bonuses, taxes, and days off during your move. Also, find out if the relocation benefits your employer is giving you have a payback agreement. Employers may require you to pay back all or part of the relocation expenses if you leave the company within a certain time. You don’t want to be stuck having to pay back money you weren’t aware you were responsible for!

5. What is the cost of living in the new city or country?

Are there major differences that will increase your current expenses, such as rent, gas, groceries, paid parking, public transportation, state taxes, and income tax implications?

6. What are your salary requirements, and will the new job and city or country meet all of  those needs?

If you’re moving to a larger city, your current salary or compensation structure may not be enough to allow you to live the lifestyle you are used to. Do your research on salaries in the new city within your industry.

7. What processes are in place to help you succeed?

Make sure the company has a strategic plan to make your transfer as seamless as possible; you want to hit the ground running from day one!

8. What will your new team dynamic be like?

Ask if you can meet the support team prior to accepting an offer. This is especially true if you are going to be working remotely—you will want to meet and build a rapport with the people who will be helping you succeed in your new role.

9. How does this opportunity fit into your long-term career plan?

Ask whether the position offers sufficient upward mobility, not just from where your career is now, but once you’re on board and contributing.

10. What is your gut telling you?

Only you can decide whether a relocation is best for you. If you’re doing a lot of second-guessing, you probably have your answer. On the other hand, if you can’t stop thinking about the idea of this potential move, go for it—it could be the best decision you’ve ever made!