CALIFORNIA – In an effort to leave the unemployment line behind them, many men and women have decided they would relocate for jobs if the opportunities presented themselves. According to the Atlas Van Lines 2012 Corporate Relocation Survey, 52 percent of all relocations in 2011 were new hires.

That’s not only reflective of people’s willingness to move for new opportunities, but also companies’ willingness to help new hires make smooth transitions. Whereas many companies were forced to reduce or eliminate their relocation budgets during the depths of the recession, more and more of them now have more money to help candidates relocate.

Finding a company willing to incur some, if not all, of an employee’s relocation costs is one way to make the process easier. But even those who can’t find such a willing employer don’t have to rule out relocation. The following are a few ways to make relocating for a career as successful as possible.

• Don’t be afraid to negotiate. The Atlas relocation survey noted that 87 percent of the firms surveyed had a formal relocation policy. These policies can run the gamut from very accommodating to extremely limited. But many leave room for exceptions, so men and women should not be afraid to negotiate.

• Do the homework. Companies Advertisement

[ Christ the King Lutheran Church ] often expect quick responses when they offer out-of-towners a position. Applicants likely won’t have enough time between receiving the offer and meeting the deadline to accept or deny the position to do all of the research that needs to be done. Before applying for positions within a given city, learn about the city, including the cost of housing, the reputation of the city’s school districts, and anything else that will ultimately have an impact on your decision to move or stay put.

• Don’t overlook temporary housing. Many firms provide temporary housing for new hires or existing employees who relocate. This option should not be overlooked. If the company does not provide temporary housing, then contact a real estate professional and explain the situation. An agent should be able to help you find temporary housing and assist you once the relocation is complete and you’re ready to find a permanent residence.

• Know the repayment provisions. While many people consider their decision to relocate a success, others find their new job and city fall short of their expectation. That can be difficult if the new company helped pay for a relocation. Before accepting a job offer and relocating, ask to read the relocation policy and make note of its repayment provisions.