Relocating can boost your career

ORLANDO, Fla. – January is the number one month for career change with nearly one in five workers making a job switch after the holidays. And for many, that means relocating. Research shows 49 percent of people who move for work do it to get a higher-paying job or advance their career.

Sometimes, the only way to move up at work is to move on. But it’s not easy to relocate. More than half of employees report emotional or personal challenges that last three months or more after their move. So how you can relocate successfully?

One of the first steps? Ask about relocation support but do it the right way.

“So, by being able to say it’s a non-threatening question, how does that work? And now all of a sudden, they’re explaining to you how it works, right? They want you to be on their team,” said Dwight Bain, career coach.

You can also negotiate a relocation buffer — like temporary housing or a small stipend. If your new city is more expensive, ask about a cost-of-living adjustment to offset higher rent and food costs.

Ask for a 30-60-90-day ramp-up plan so you know the goals, key contacts, and what success looks like. Get a landing mentor to help you navigate culture and unwritten rules. Protect your reputation early. The first 90 days count, so show up ready and deliver one quick win. Ask where you can make an immediate impact so you land on the right projects. Learn the hidden culture fast — real arrival times, communication styles, and who decides what. Relocating is more than a move — it’s a chance to reinvent yourself, find new purpose, and grow.

And don’t forget, building a local professional network early can make all the difference. Check out chamber events, professional meetups, and industry groups to find mentors, opportunities, and even new friends. And if you can, visit during the city’s worst season — because if you like it then, you’ll love it the rest of the year.

Contributors to this news report include: Cliff Tumetel, Producer; Bob Walko, Editor.