Millennials want to move. Some of us got a taste of big city life in college and are in search of a thriving city where we can start an exciting career. Some of us are just terrified of getting swallowed by the black hole that is our boring hometowns. Regardless of the reasons, millennials are being relocated in droves- and we’re loving it. With that being said, it’s important we don’t get too excited before we negotiate a relocation package. Here are 5 job relocation negotiation tips to make your exciting new career adventure smooth and seamless.
Most big companies with offices around the world relocate employees so much that they have a standard company policy (87% according to U.S. News). There’s a good chance that you won’t be able to find this information on the company website. If you’re being relocated by a company you currently work for, then utilize your networking skills to get the scoop on how they handle relocating employees. Reach out to people on LinkedIn who work for the same company with a personal note that asks if they or anyone they know has experienced relocation.
Is the cost of living higher or lower in your new city? If the cost of living is higher, then a raise and/or signing bonus should be your main concern. On the other hand, you might not be too concerned with these perks if the cost of living is lower. Bankrate.com has a great free cost of living calculator you can use to compare your current and new city.
The most immediate concern that must be addressed when relocating for a job is housing. Does the company expect you to have a place lined up on your own, or do they offer some sort of temporary housing for their relocated employees?
Make temporary housing a focal point of your negotiations. If the company doesn’t offer at least some version of temporary housing, then the relocation isn’t worth the stress of finding a new place to live, and in the case of homeowners, selling a home on short notice. No temporary housing is a huge red flag when it comes to how the company views its employee’s well-being. A company should get rid of their employee’s primary concern regarding relocation if they expect the employee to see relocation as an exciting opportunity.
There are several other perks to consider when negotiating a relocation package. Who is going to pay for shipping all of your stuff to your new city? What if you lose money on your house when you have to sell it on short notice? These are all things that are up for negotiation. According to a survey by U.S. News, 65% of companies surveyed offer employees complete reimbursement for relocation. Other common perks include assistance selling your home, job search assistance for the employee’s spouse, a mortgage stipend, and help finding and paying for childcare.
The final tip on this list of job relocation negotiation tips is simple: know your worth. Don’t just go into the negotiation thinking that you have to accept whatever the company first offers- even if they have a standard company policy. Exceptions are always made for productive employees. Treat this negotiation like a job interview and sell your skills to sweeten your package.
Looking for a job in another state? There’s actually a job site for that called Jobs With Relo. Check it out.
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