If you are in charge of organizing your company’s relocation packages, the first thing you should know is that not all relocation packages are created equal. A good relocation package will be tailored to the needs of the type of employee that you have got. So, what do we mean? Read on.
Single Employees
Single employees may need the most support when moving – after all, they may not have an extended family or partner to help them throughout the process. Single employees may need more time away from the office to make arrangements for their move. Human resource officials may consider including roommate search services, house-hunting trips, and perhaps even relocation support to their employee.
Single Parents
Just like single employees, single parents will have extra demands, but on top of the demands of parenthood. When a single person is moving with their kids, they might need help finding schools, safe neighborhoods, and supplemental support during the move. These employees may also require more time away from the office during the relocation process to care for their children. These employees may need supplemental support for childcare as well.
Minorities
Employers need to be aware of the prejudices some individuals may face in a new location. Unfortunately, some minority groups are still subject to illegal discrimination, especially when trying to buy a home. A company relocating a minority employee may consider house-hunting support in all aspects of the relocation process.
Employees Caring for Elderly Relatives
Today, more and more people are taking care of their elderly relatives – this may include parents and in-laws. In many cases, this care is in-home or at a nearby nursing facility. Human resource professionals may consider including the usual relocation benefits in addition to support for finding nursing homes or in-home care specialists in the new area.
Employees with Disabilities
Many companies have employees with disabilities and therefore must take their needs into account when relocating them. Employers may need to assist such employees with suitable housing or modifications to existing homes to meet their needs. Information on nearby medical and research facilities is also helpful.
Employees with Working Spouses
Although there are plenty of stay-at-home moms (and dads), most households have two working parents or spouses. So, if an employee is asked to move for his or her job, this decision may affect their partner’s career. Employers may consider including spousal support and employment assistance as part of the relocation package.
So, the secret to a successful employee relocation package is that it meets the specific needs of the employee that needs to move. Human resource managers need to prepare a basic package and then tailor it to their employees’ individual requirements. A good relocation package can mean the difference between a productive employee and no employee at all.
Lance Grooms