The Challenges of IT Relocation and How to Overcome Them

IT relocation can present numerous challenges to companies that are looking to make the move, especially because each organization has its own unique set of requirements and goals that need to be taken into account when it comes to moving the infrastructure. 

Use this guide as a reference for some of the more common challenges you might face during your own IT relocation, along with practical tips and strategies on how to best overcome them, based on the experiences of IT clients who have done so in the past.

7 Most Common IT Relocation Challenges and How to Overcome Them?

Using an IT relocation firm like Rapid IT Support can make all the difference when it comes to moving your entire operation to a new city, state or country. No matter how big or small your operation is, there are challenges that need to be addressed and overcome in order to have a successful IT relocation transition. 

Here are some of the most common IT relocation challenges and how you can overcome them.

1) Culture Shock

The moment you realize how much different life is in your new home from where you came from is going to take some getting used to. If your company moves you far away, there are going to be more changes than just a new job title, different colleagues, and a new office. 

The way that people go about their business, how they work with each other, who they work for—it’s all going to feel foreign. It’s important to remember that everyone has gone through it before, so don’t feel like you have to act like an expert on day one. Be open and willing to learn from others around you.

2) Finding an Apartment

When relocating for your first job, it’s likely you won’t have family or friends in town. In most cases, you’ll have no choice but to find an apartment yourself. 

This can be a tricky task if you don’t know where to start. The key is being prepared—researching your desired neighbourhood before arriving will allow you to make smart decisions as soon as you step off that plane. 

You should also think about what you’re looking for in an apartment; consider things like distance from work, the safety of the neighbourhood, pet-friendliness of the building, etc. Start with a general search on sites like Zillow and Trulia to get a feel for what apartments are available in your price range.

3) Importance of Networking

First, let’s be clear about one thing: Networking does not have to be a dirty word. It has been associated with sleazy salesmen (or women) and others for whom it might not be appropriate. The truth is that most people are uncomfortable when forced into social situations, which unfortunately is what networking often involves. 

You must force yourself out of your comfort zone if you are going to succeed in today’s business world. Don’t just approach anyone who looks like they could be a potential client or colleague; instead, identify those who can help you achieve your goals and develop relationships with them.

4) Dealing with Personal Finances

The biggest challenge for an employee moving for a new job is dealing with their personal finances. Some expenses will transfer over, but others may not. If you’re relocating, there are steps you can take right now before you leave to ensure that your finances are taken care of properly. 4

Take time to review your budget and figure out how much money you need for each month after taxes, housing costs, food, etc. You should also make sure you have enough saved up in case of emergencies. 

Figure out how much money you’ll need on average each month to maintain your current lifestyle—and make sure it's enough so that you don't have to dip into savings or credit cards while waiting for your first paycheck from your new employer.

5) Work Relationships

For most, moving means leaving behind co-workers with whom you’ve forged strong relationships. This can be a major hurdle in IT relocation. The best way to deal with it is simply by communicating face-to-face or over email, either professionally or personally, as often as possible before moving day. 

You may even want to consider giving your colleagues advance notice of your move so they have time to get used to it. Once you’re settled into your new home, try reaching out again; perhaps organize an informal meetup for coffee or lunch. 

If that doesn’t work out, take heart: It might just take some time for people on both sides of the move to adjust—and once they do, those old friendships will likely come rushing back.

6) Moving in With Your Significant Other

Moving in with your significant other isn’t always as exciting as it sounds. If you can, try to set a few ground rules before you both sign that lease: don’t bring along any of your old bedroom furniture; be flexible about dividing closet space; and most importantly, discuss how much time you’ll spend at each other’s places. 

This last part is crucial because moving in together can mean more time spent with your S.O., but not necessarily more time with each other. If you want to make sure you two are still prioritizing quality time overspending every night on opposite ends of your apartment, talk about it now—and then stick to those priorities once you move in.

7) Starting a New Job

At most companies, it’s typical for new employees to have a few weeks or months of onboarding. This is essentially training that helps you navigate company processes and policies, get familiar with your new computer and phone system, learn about any software applications used by your department or company, etc. It’s a great way to ease into a new job—just don’t let it feel like boot camp!

Conclusion

Whether you’re preparing for a move across town or country, there are plenty of potential roadblocks that can slow you down—and in some cases, even stop you in your tracks. From cost overruns to unforeseen delays, relocating your business’s IT department can be a tricky process. But with careful planning and organization—and lots of teamwork—you can ensure a smooth transition. 

Rapid IT Support services can help you overcome the relocation challenges that you face with ease. Our services are affordable and readily available. Rapid IT Support is a UK-based company specializing in providing innovative and cost-effective information technology services such as IT relocation, IT Support for Schools, Managed IT Support, etc. 

If you have any questions about IT relocation services or need help finding an experienced provider, get in touch with our experts today!! We would love to help. 

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