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

FAQs

How do I know if moving is right for me? ›

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Securing a job before you move to a new city may help reduce the stress of relocating. By getting a job ahead of time, you can move in without having to think about whether you can find a job. This can give you comfort and ease your mind.

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.

You have six months until most employers really start to care about employment gaps and plenty of ways to deal with long-term unemployment if it becomes unavoidable.

How often is too often to switch jobs? ›

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.

Clearly state the reason for delay in no uncertain terms and be honest about it. Propose a start date that you are comfortable making. In fact, add a buffer of 2-3 days just to ensure that there is wiggle room. Express that you are flexible and are keen to start the job.

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.

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.

“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].”

"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."