FindItMore | Moving to a new city after college can be an exciting, but overwhelming process. In today’s competitive job market relocation has become quite the norm for new graduates. This transition often requires a lot of planning and a big leap of faith. Here are ten tips to remember when relocating for your first job:
Purge
Purging is a great idea prior to a move. Not only does it reduce the amount of stuff you’ll transport, but it also helps you reset and enjoy this fresh new beginning. Swap your college dorm decor for something more professional and get rid of any clothing or electronics that no longer suit your tastes.
Get Organized
Hauling your life and belongings cross-country can be a daunting task if you don’t stay organized. You should have a packing and an unpacking to-do list as well as a list of supplies you’ll need to accomplish your goals along the way. You should also organize the packing process by placing your items you’ll need immediately in an easily accessible spot.
Save Your Money
There are lots of unexpected expenses associated with a big move. Items like cleaning supplies and odds and ends for your new space are things you don’t regularly think about. Once you know you’ll be moving, start stashing away cash for the big day and the following period.
Keep Your Receipts
Many companies will offer relocation assistance which can definitely help offset any costs. You may also be eligible for a tax write-off when relocating for work. Either way, you’ll need to keep record of your expenses along the way to cash in on these benefits.
Research the Area
It’s a good idea to begin researching your new community well in advance of moving day. You’ll want to secure things like a dentist and doctor’s office, grocery store, gym, and hairdresser. You’ll also want to scope out the red flag areas in the community as you look for housing options.
Search Social Media
Of course, you’ll want to begin making friends in your new community. A great place to start when looking for new connections is social media. You may be surprised how many people you already know. It’s also always a good idea to check in with any of your college friends you made who graduated a year or two before you did and see where they’re at.
Get a Hobby
If you strike out on social media, you might consider a new hobby. Many cities offer fun social clubs for young people new to the community and it’s a great way to stay active and meet new people. You’ll slowly build up your network in your new home.
Do a Test Run
Once you arrive you should do a quick trial run from home to office. You’ll want to make sure you know exactly how to get there and the time it takes to commute. You might also check out the local transit system ensuring you know how to get to all your most frequented destinations with ease.
Schedule a Date with the DMV
You are required by law to register your vehicle and get a new driver’s license within a certain time frame. We all know this process can be tedious and inconvenient, but it’s definitely something you’ll want to cross off your list relatively early.
Open a New Bank Account
If your bank is not known nation-wide, you’ll want to set up a local bank account prior to your first paycheck. You’ll want a local place where you can quickly and conveniently withdraw money and deposit your checks.
Graduating is a huge accomplishment. But now the real world awaits. There’s a lot of things to consider when moving to a new area post-college, and this can help you cover the bases and get integrated into whatever society you choose to be in.
About the Author
Hayden Stewart is a media specialist for the Allied Van Lines moving blog. He regularly writes content for a variety of lifestyle and home blogs based around the transitional obstacles that come with moving, settling into a new home, and more.
