Are you paid enough, or is it time to make your move? (2024)

FAQs

How do you decide if you should move for a job? ›

At least 2-4 weeks is reasonable to relocate for a job that's not too far away from a current home, like in a neighboring state or a couple of states away.

You'll want to get a good feel for what it's like to live in the location, including its climate, safety and culture. You'll also have to pay close attention to the expenses associated with the move, and you'll need to figure out whether you can afford the cost of living in a new location.

Consider the current job market

While the average range for job increases is 5-10%, that doesn't mean you're limited to these figures. When switching jobs, you should aim to negotiate for at least a 10-20% pay increase.

A typical relocation package usually covers the costs of moving and storing furnishings, household goods, assistance with selling an existing home, costs incurred with house-hunting, temporary housing, and all travel costs by the employee and family to the new location.

If you are planning to move but are staying within your current state, it can be beneficial to start your search five or six months in advance. Approach your job search in this case by explaining to potential employers that you are relocating and have a specific date in mind for when you can start a new job.

In today's modern workplace, there is no reason to stay in a job you hate just for the sake of a resume. So, if you're sure you want out of your role, there is no shame in immediately calling it quits or searching for a new position.

Changing jobs more than once every two years, called job-hopping, can give potential employers the impression that a long-term position might not be a good fit for you.

If your current employer does not have the resources and availability to support this, it may be time to take your talents, experience and knowledge to another company. Experts agree that you should stay at your place of employment for a minimum of two years.

Your twenties and early thirties are arguably the best time to move somewhere new; you're in your golden years and the world is ripe with opportunity. Moving to a new city allows you to re-define yourself without the pressure of cultural norms surrounding you.

Are you willing to relocate yes or no? ›

"I am absolutely open to relocating for the right opportunity. In fact, I am looking to take on more responsibilities and challenges, and I believe this position is the perfect opportunity for me to do so. I am excited about the possibility of relocating and immersing myself in a new environment and culture."

Wishing to flee can be linked to anxiety about specific responsibilities or obligations in your life. It may also be related to avoidant personality characteristics or mental health concerns like depression.

Make sure you're prepared if you're going to ask your boss for a raise. Pay increases tend to vary based on inflation, location, sector, and job performance. Most employers give their employees an increase of around 3% per year.

Typically, it's appropriate to ask for a raise of 10-20% more than what you're currently making. You can also use various online websites that take into account your job title, geographic location and experience level when determining a reasonable raise.

A $10,000 raise is worth much more

A $10k raise now is worth over $500k, HALF A MILLION DOLLARS, in career earnings if you're working for 30 more years. That figure accounts for inflation, but that's it. Earning more now makes it easier to land a higher paying job.

Benefits of finding a job before you move

If you wait to move until you find a new job, you can start earning money right away. This can help pay for rent and expenses that may have been more challenging to afford if you moved without a job.

“I'm happy to consider relocating if the job's a good fit. If there's also an opportunity to work remotely or out of the office in [current location] I'd love to discuss that as well, as that would work best for my current situation because [reason].”

Ultimately, there's no single right answer for this dilemma. What's right for you will depend on your finances, flexibility, and comfort level. In general, it's easier to find a job in a new city if you're already there. But for many people, it's not possible to move without having a steady income already lined up.