How to let people know you're moving

This is probably a bittersweet time in your life.  Moving may mean you'll get to explore a new area, start new family traditions, make new friends and may even put you closer to family and old friends.  But, at the same time, you may be leaving behind what's comfortable and familiar— dear friends, family, co-workers, classmates etc.

So how do you let people know you're moving? Let me just start by recommending that you tell those closest to you before you post the news on Facebook.  Hurt feelings are sure to surface if you do it the other way around.

Here are some good ideas for letting folks know you're moving:

• Have your friends and family over for dinner or a cookout and make the announcement a celebration.
• Go out for a one-on-one coffee to break the news.
• If you're feeling especially creative, make a scrapbook or photo album with a montage of pictures of your good times together, and present it when you make the announcement (It's an added bonus that a gift from the heart will give them something special to remember you by).
• While not quite as personal, if you're short on time, a phone call will do.

Letting your employer know you're moving
Again, you'll want to take care of this before you make the announcement on Facebook.  Who wants their boss to learn the news before being able to tell her/him in person? Not a good idea. Telling your closest friends and family is probably the first priority, but telling your employer runs a tight second. 

Of course, if you're transferring with your company, they already know you're moving.  But, if you're leaving the company, it's a different story.  Giving at least 2 weeks' notice is customary and recommended.  This keeps you in good standing with the company and makes it more likely that you'll get a good recommendation in the future.

Keep in mind that maintaining good working relationships with your coworkers is important. Saying negative things on your way out the door will probably only hurt you in the long run.  Simply let your co-workers and superiors know your reasons for leaving (better/more opportunities etc., be closer to family etc.) and it will help you maintain good relationships with them after you move. 

Telling the masses
OK, so now that the two "must know first" groups are taken care of, it's time to let everyone know!  Of course, you can make the announcement over social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter, but I recommend also sending moving announcements if you want to update your address— since it's not a good idea to put your address on social media sites.  Electronic moving announcements, like those available at upack.com are a great, fun way to make the announcement. 

No matter how you decide to tell people you are moving, just remember to make it fun.  Having a memorable time in your last few weeks before moving will make the whole experience more enjoyable.