The Wheaton Blog
Make the Most of Your Temporary Relocation with This Survival Guide
When your employer asks you to make a temporary relocation, you can expect a lot of advantages. Often, employers will reward individuals willing to make the sacrifice with a bonus or job promotion. That being said, this situation also presents a few concerns. You may wonder what to take with you, where to live, and more.
If you worry about committing to a relocation, rest assured that the transition can be made smoothly. The information below will serve as your survival guide as you make a decision and move forward with the process.
Negotiating Your Arrangement
If you hope to make the most of your temp relocation, negotiations are a key step. As we’ve said, employers will often reward relocated employees for their sacrifice. Maximize your incentives by asking for the following:
- A Paid Visit to the New Location. You’ll want to scout schools and find a place to live prior to making your move. Feel free to ask your employer if he or she will fund a short visit to the new location.
- Compensation for Your Move. Don’t feel shy about asking for financial compensation during your move. Your employer may help with the costs of travel and hiring a moving company. Just make sure to keep your requests within reason.
- A Bonus or Higher Salary. The way a company treats their relocating employees will often impact their recruiting efforts. For this reason, you may expect to obtain some sort of bonus or raised salary.
The key to getting what you want in a negotiation is making your case. If your employer sees your requests as an investment, they will more likely meet your needs. Take the time to explain how the money you ask for will ultimately benefit the company.
Deciding What to Take with You
If you’ve settled on an agreement and decided to temporarily relocate, the next step will involve packing. Depending on your situation, you may need to bring only a few things or all of your belongings. As you determine what you need, these tips will help:
Tip #1: Plan on the Essentials
At the very least, you’ll have to take a few essential items with you. Necessary medication, personal documents (SSC, birth certificate, etc.) and your business wardrobe represent a few of the items on your checklist.
Tip #2: Consider Your Climate
When the move is only temporary, there’s no need to take your entire closet. Consider your climate as you decide what clothing to take and leave behind. You should also ask yourself which recreational activities you’ll participate in. Will you need your golf clubs or skis?
Tip #3: Find Out about Your Living Arrangement
Perhaps the most important step will involve learning about your new living arrangement. Will your space be furnished or unfurnished? If furnished, you can go ahead and find a storage solution for your current furniture.
Finding a Temporary Living Arrangement
Your employer may determine living arrangement. If, however, the responsibility is left in your hands, consider the following options:
- Normal Hotels. If your temporary relocation only lasts for a few weeks to a month, a regular hotel may be the answer. Keep in mind that this solution costs the most and doesn’t offer amenities such as a laundry room.
- Extended-Stay Hotels. If your stay lasts longer than a month, consider an extended-stay hotel as your solution. With these facilities, you’ll have the advantage of a kitchen and shared laundry room.
- Rental Apartment or Home. Finally, a rental apartment or home will be your best choice. That is, if you can find a rental agreement that fits your timeline. This solution will allow for optimal comfort and allow you access to features such as cable TV and internet.
Finding a living solution is not easy, so you’ll want to get started on this step as soon as possible. If you have questions or concerns, get in touch with local resources. A moving company or real estate agent will be able to lend a helping hand.