Are you prepared to relocate?

1. Are you open to overseas jobs?
2. Can you relocation if there is a open position not located in your city of residence?

And I would be thinking in my mind, “Why is this fellow asking me these questions? Isn’t he/she supposed to go find me a open position first?”.

After putting myself in their shoes, I realized that the recruiters are just trying to help. By understanding your target market, they will be able to help narrow down your search criteria and make the search effort more focus and efficient.

Geographic Location:

You need to seriously think through if you are prepared to relocate.

• Some people need to stay put because their parents are old or sick and need them to be near.
• If you are attached, are you prepared for a long distance relationship?
• If you are married, you should discuss this decision with your wife first (your wife may have to quit her job or sell her business to move with you).
• If you have kids, what is the impact to them.

You need considered which cities or country you are comfortable to relocate to. Think about factors such as:

• Financial – Taxation Laws in the relocation state or country. If you have children, you want to consider if the relocating country has good International schools. Is your profession highly demanded in the relocating country such that hiring companies will consider offering you expatriate packages or will it be on local terms? If it is on local terms, cost of living standards will need to be factored in.
• Health – Certain countries or cities have very bad pollution and hygenie condition. This would be a greater concern if you have allergies or if you have kids.
• Safety – Some places are notorious for their crimes rates. Is the job worth the risk?
• Food – Sure, most countries today offer a wide variety of cuisines but foreign cuisine restaurant tend to be pricer. Can you adapt to the local cuisine? If not, you may be spending more on food.
• Transport – What is the typical mode of transport in the relocating country? Do they have a good public transport system? If not, are you prepared to buy a car? (this is provided you have a driving license.
• Future Prospect – Does this relocating country offer good prospects for your future career growth? At the moment, China is the hottest place to gain overseas experience and differentiate you from others.

Once you have identified the countries, state or cities (if you decided that you won’t relocate, skip this paragraph), list them in order of preference.