Should I re-locate to further my career?

Main Benefits of re-locating

Relocating geographically can be a significant step in furthering your career. It can open up new opportunities, expand your professional network, and provide a fresh perspective on your work. In this newsletter, we will explore the various benefits of re-locating, how it can help advance your career and my personal experience with re-location.

1. New Opportunities: Moving to a new location can expose you to a wider range of job opportunities. It may provide access to a different job market with a greater demand for your skillset, or it may offer you the chance to work in a more specialized field. Additionally, relocating can also lead to more exposure to different industries and companies, which can help you grow and develop in your career.

2. Network Expansion: Relocating can also help you expand your professional network. You will have the opportunity to meet new people and make connections with professionals in your field, which can lead to new job opportunities or even mentorship opportunities. Moreover, being a part of a new community can also give you a better understanding of the local business culture and trends, which can be beneficial for your career growth.

3. Fresh Perspective: Moving to a new location can give you a fresh perspective on your work and life. It can provide you with a new outlook on things, allowing you to think more creatively and critically about your work. Moreover, it can also help you develop a new sense of motivation, as you take on the challenge of adjusting to a new environment.

4. Cost of Living: In some cases, relocating to a new location may also offer a more affordable cost of living. This can be especially beneficial for individuals who are looking to save money, as well as those who are looking to improve their standard of living. Additionally, a lower cost of living can also provide more financial stability and security, which can be essential for career growth and success.

5. Personal Growth: Relocating can also provide an opportunity for personal growth. Living in a new environment can help you develop new skills, such as adapting to new cultural norms, and dealing with different types of people. Additionally, relocating can also help you grow as a person, as you experience new things and meet new people.

6. Work-Life Balance: Relocating to a new location can also improve your work-life balance. For example, moving to a location with a lower cost of living can provide you with more financial stability and security, which can reduce the stress of making ends meet. Additionally, relocating to a location with a more relaxed pace of life can also help you avoid burnout and maintain a better work-life balance.

In conclusion, relocating geographically can provide numerous benefits for advancing your career. From exposing you to new job opportunities, expanding your professional network, and providing a fresh perspective, to offering a more affordable cost of living and personal growth, relocating can be a valuable step in furthering your career. However, it is important to carefully consider the pros and cons of relocating before making a move. It is also crucial to thoroughly research your potential new location and make sure it is the right fit for you.

My personal experience with re-location

I moved from the UK to Singapore almost exactly 2 years ago but the decision to move started way earlier. There are 2 aspects I focused our decision on; personal and professional.

Personal aspect

To be quite honest the personal aspect was a much bigger factor in the decision to move from the UK to Singapore. I have a young family so we had to consider our children's environment, education and general well-being. The chance to come to South East Asia and travel the region as well as the lifestyle, the climate, the convenience and general standard of living is very high so from a personal point of view we could see a lot of benefits. The draw-backs would be time away from friends and family and the big change in environment. 2 years on I can say the benefits out-weigh the draw-backs. My children have been exposed to so many cultures, made lots of new friends, received a very good standard of education and even learned some basic Chinese!

Professional aspect

From a professional point of view the decision was easier because the role I was relocating for was the same one I did in the UK. Amazon were amazing with their support from a re-location point of view. They helped with guidance, a relocation package and this made the decision to move so much easier! The other key factor is the exposure to business culture across APJ and this has been the biggest benefit by far. Working with and learning from colleagues, partners and customers in places like Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines and Singapore has been incredible and I've learned some lessons I will carry with me for the rest of my career! The draw-back is that my progression might have slowed down slightly but again, the benefits far out-weigh the draw-backs from a professional point of view too.

Consider it!

Relocating can be a big step, but with proper planning and preparation, it can be a valuable step in advancing your career and personal growth. So, consider relocating and take advantage of all the benefits it can offer!

I've benefitted personally and professionally and life is too short to wonder "What if?"

Feel free to contact me via the usual channels if you want deeper insight into the decision making process, the move or any help or advice in general.

Thanks for reading!