“Be prepared for anything.” That was the last thing an Account Manager said before we ended our conversation on what to prepare for when relocating employees. Human Resource professionals must also be prepared. “Special” requests by employees, that at first may seem unreasonable to someone outside the industry but, in reality, are honest appeals for assistance can occur at any time.
It’s not as simple as selling one house in country “A” and arranging to buy or rent a place in country “B.” Favorite appliances may want to be relocated, even though the new residence will have to be rewired in order for them to work. Farm animals may have to be moved, antique cars, priceless chandeliers.
Human Resource professionals often hire relocation firms to work with them on special requests and policies because the minutia is mind boggling. And if you don’t sweat the small stuff, if you are not prepared to go the distance for the employee, will the employee be motivated to go the distance for the company?
Working closely with relocation firms also helps the HR departments save money. The relocation firms know which vendors to contact. For example, who could move three pigs, four cows and six horses at the lowest cost but also ensure the safety of the animals? It’s a safe bet that most HR pros don’t have the time to do the research on that question.
Companies want the move to be as stress free as possible so the new employee can begin work and be productive. Many have incorporated intercultural training into their relocation policies to help cover all the bases. Finding the appropriate school for a child and offering advice on something as simple as finding the closest church or grocery store are very important too, but financial issues usually garner the most attention.
