A Journey South: Part Three - Research
Originally posted on LinkedIn in 2016
While the journey to Dunedin is complete, the resettlement process is still well and truly underway and it has given me a chance to reflect more on the journey. Just to give you an update on our journey to date, we have been in Dunedin for 6 weeks now. I have been with Port Otago for one month (hence the cover photo), while my partner is still job hunting for Accounts Payable (or similar) roles.
Research
A crucial part in the relocation journey is research. It takes many forms and is ongoing in any relocation process. During our journey, there's a few lessons we have learned.
Lesson One: Research is Ongoing
When relocating, you will certainly research your options early in the process to decide where you will relocate to and what your options are for jobs.
I have learned that the research process doesn't end after you decide to move. We are constantly looking into new things now that we are in Dunedin, from suburbs and places to live in, to where we can find groceries, fresh produce and doctors. These are not necessarily related to finding a job or career, but help with settling and embedding into a new community
Lesson Two: Question and Validate
It goes without saying, but question and validate your research and assumptions. This can be overlooked among the emotions and can lead to embarrassment and difficulty.
A good example of this was relying on an online resource outlining large Dunedin employers. Among that list was a company that relocated all operations to Auckland almost 10 years ago. Unfortunately we didn't discover this fact until after we emailed said company with CV's saying that we're looking for roles in Dunedin.
Lesson Three: Talking to People is the Best Source
Looking back over our research and the conversations we have had, the most useful nuggets of information have come from people who have been in our shoes. Rather than being a local or a recruiter trying to place you, talking to people with experience will give you the true colours about the new city you are moving to.
Some of the most useful comments we received included that job searching in Dunedin can take a long time, renting properties will not be easy unless you want to commit to 12 months, and things are done a little more "old school". More than anything, hearing people's experiences gave us better awareness and has helped reduce the culture shock.