In a national study, job relocation was listed as one of the top ten most stressful events in life. If the transition isn’t handled smoothly and carefully, it has the potential to disrupt lives and do psychological damage. Therefore, there are some things a person planning on relocating for a job needs to know to keep moving and the transition to the new job location as easy as possible.
The first thing that may ease the stress of business relocation is assistance with the financial details. Since many business budget for relocation expenses, investigate the possibility of your company’s paying for all or part of your moving expenses. Easing the financial burden will go a long way in reducing the stress of job relocation.
On a similar topic, you should plan to write off any moving expenses you do pay on next year’s income taxes. Business relocation counts as a tax write-off, since it is a business expense. However, keep in mind that you cannot take the credit if you officially get the job after you move. You must receive a job offer before moving.
Whether or not you get your expenses covered, plan to hire a full-service moving company. Doing so will greatly ease your stress. Although you will need to do some packing yourself, a moving company can pack many of your items, load them into a truck, and take them to your new location. Even if you normally move yourself, you should really think about hiring people to help you, because of the inherent stress of employee relocation.
When you arrive, plan to spend the first month or so settling in. Let your employer know that you’d like a bit of time at home to unpack and get used to your new environment. Allow yourself to ease into the various tasks required for you at your job, and don’t be afraid to ask for a little bit of leniency if you need it.
Finally, you should strongly consider getting some short-term therapy to help you through the adjustment period. Even if you don’t feel stressed on the surface, business relocation can cause a great deal of pressure and anxiety, which can effect your relationship with you family and your ability to get ahead in your career.
Visit our website for more information about business and home relocation. Or for more Real Estate advice see Inside Real Estate.
- Howard Brule
Highlights 
December 23rd, 2006 