Destination DFW is designed to provide those new to the DFW area
with a wealth of information. And, as excited as you may be with
your relocation decision, it is still a challenge to settle into any new
community. With this article, I will share with you my relocation
tips, based on more than thirty books and extensive personal experience, to smooth your adjustment into DFW.
LEARN ABOUT YOUR NEW CITY
You may find yourself lodged in a hotel or temporary housing until
your belongings arrive, and that’s a nice opportunity to become
familiar with DFW. Destination DFW is the perfect place to start
learning about what this wonderful city has to offer. You can also find
additional information at the Chamber of Commerce, the Visitor’s
Center, hotels/motels/airports, and real estate offices (see the Helpful
Websites sidebar on the next page).
A walking or bus tour, while fun for the whole family, actually serves
to help you become acclimated and learn about the city. You can also
visit local points of interest such as museums, parks and exhibits;
enjoy a concert; and try out restaurants featuring local cuisine. Check
out any services, activities or organizations that are of particular
interest to your family.
SPOUSE CAREER CONSIDERATIONS
One of the biggest challenges of moving is relocating a “second”
career. If you, as a spouse, are transferring your job to a home office,
Evaluate your skills, accomplishments and greatest strengths when
you are planning your next endeavor. A few resources to tap are
your spouse’s employer, local organizations, real estate offices with
“Partner Career Assistance Programs,” independent career coun-
selors, your university/college alma mater and of course the Sunday
edition of the local papers. If you are searching for a job, start
networking by telling those you meet that you are looking.
If you have chosen to take a break from your career, consider
volunteering your time and talent. Volunteering to a charitable organization is a wonderful effort as well as a way to meet new people
and learn more about the community. Volunteer activities add depth
to résumés, but the experience needs to be documented so that the
service equates to business expertise. Before you again become fully
GET TING
SE T TLED
