Starting a new job – especially your first job after university – can be a bit daunting at the best of times. So when that new job means you have to move away from home, or away from your university town, it can be a bit of a logistical nightmare. If that sounds like what you’re dealing with, take look at our handy tips to consider, which might just make it easier.
1. How far are you moving? How much can you carry?
Are you staying close to home, or are you going on an epic relocating journey of high proportions? If you’re only going a short distance, you might find that a removal van or a few trips in your own car are practical options for you, in which case, you can take whatever you want.
If you’re making a long distance trip across the UK, though, a van might be too expensive, and multiple hikes up and down the country might take too long. If that’s the case, it’s going to be all about what you can carry in one trip. Time to practise your heavy lifting. Similarly, if you’re going abroad, you might be limited to just one or two suitcases. Think about how you’re going to travel, what you’ll need to get settled in the first few weeks, and write yourself a checklist. And then re-write it. Be honest: your entire collection of boxsets isn’t really an essential, no matter how good Breaking Bad is.
2. Do you have somewhere to live? Do you need it straight away?
You might be really fortunate and find yourself with a few months to prepare for the move away after university. If you’ve got the time, take advantage of it: do your research and work out the best places to live on your budget. Get something set up in advance, and then you can make your move nice and easy.
If that’s not you, and you find yourself having to move now for a start next week, then don’t panic. First of all – think about whether you absolutely need to find somewhere straight away. If you have any friends in the area, they might be willing to let you camp out at theirs for a while. Yes, a few weeks on a blow-up bed isn’t ideal, but it’s probably better than leaping desperately to sign a contract on the first house you can find, then realising later that you’ve just committed yourself to twelve months in something inconvenient, overpriced or in poor condition.
3. Do you have time to explore?
If you’ve got the time, try to move to your new hometown a week or two in advance. Then you’ve got the chance to get a feel for the place; not only your commute, but also your local area and what it has to offer. If you can settle into your house before you start your job, you’ll have somewhere relaxed to come home to. That way, you don’t have to worry about wearing your creased shirts straight out of the suitcase, or having to scavenge takeaway for dinner because you haven’t unpacked your kitchen yet.
If you’re looking to start your next big adventure, we offer a fantastic Graduate Management Trainee programme, with locations up and down the country. Check out our opportunities today, and start planning for the best move you’ll ever make.