Recently, UrbanBound had the pleasure of hosting a select panel of talent acquisition and mobility thought-leaders from some of the country’s most-respected employers. We discussed the current relocation landscape…what strategies are working…and what mobility may look like in the future.
For those who weren’t able to join us, (and even for those of you who did) we’ve recapped our top takeaways for you.
Our panel asserted that any given relocation program is about more than moving employees efficiently from Point A to Point B; it’s an extension of a company’s culture. Chances are, the relocation experience is a new hire’s first real taste of how an employer treats its people.
Our panel participants viewed their relocation programs as part of their recruiting process—and retention initiatives, too. Quality relocation policies encourage employees to advance their careers by making more opportunities available. When employees have a great relocation experience, they’re more likely to say “yes” the next time they’re asked.
Companies who initiate hundreds of relocations a year know that newly-relocated employees are only as happy as their unhappiest family member. According to our panel, it’s important to recognize that moving requires the time, energy and adaptability of spouses, partners and kids—not just employees.
A great relocation experience often hinges on the little things, such as providing geographic tours, cultural training, and language classes when indicated. A thoughtful relocation program will set the whole family up for success.
Our panel members—who have seen all types of relocation policies over the years—stated unequivocally that flexible relocation benefits are a must to be competitive in 2019. Whether an employee’s priority is staying in temporary housing until he/she finds the perfect house or safely moving a menagerie of pets, the employer’s relocation policy must flex to meet each challenge without a hitch.
One panel member said her company prizes flexibility so highly, it allows some highly-valued employees to commute until they are ready to permanently relocate—a point everyone reaches in time.