Many of you reading this article ask yourself this question regularly, wondering what you are willing to do, sacrifices you are willing to make, or how close to the line of right versus wrong or even beyond the line you are willing to go. Instead, let’s consider this literally. How far will you go to relocate for the purpose of advancing your purchasing career?
Everyone has different priorities, things of importance that guide all their decisions. Some build their work around where they want to live and some live wherever their work takes them. You probably know someone right now who was born and raised in the city where they currently live and work. They experienced all their “firsts” through the years in this city. First steps, first bike, first car, graduated high school at the old Whatever County High before there were multiple schools or the big fancy one was built years ago and very few even remember the old one. Maybe they got married and started a family and all the grandparents are nearby. They never had any intention of ever seriously leaving and finding work elsewhere. They searched to see what jobs were available in their area and that is what determined their career path.
Then you also have people who are very career-minded. Sometimes they have families and sometimes they are single and have an easier time picking up and moving on short notice without ever really putting roots down anywhere. Either way, these people have a clear career path planned with an open end to be able to relocate should that prove to advance their career.
If you are willing to move to be in a better position to advance your purchasing career do you restrict the move to only certain cities, within the same state or maybe within a certain radius of wherever “home” is so that you can get back to your extended family for holidays, vacations, etc. Or do you go anywhere necessary, considering it a short term sacrifice to get you where you ultimately want to be?
According to one survey by DSJ Partners of European purchasing staff, more than half are considering relocating to advance their careers while others are moving to increase their income or find a better work/life balance. Of those looking to relocate, more than 60% say the United States is their intended destination. So back to the original question – how far are you willing to go? Like your European counterparts, are you willing to move across the world? Something to consider as you plan out your career path within the purchasing industry.
