CBRE’s annual “Scoring Tech Talent Report” shows Toronto tech talent ranks at #3 in the top fifty U.S. and Canadian cities for tech workers. The report measures cities based on several criteria, including:
Job Growth
Supply of Talent
Tech Degrees Awarded to Graduates
CBRE is a worldwide leader in real estate services that traces its roots to San Francisco, California, in the year 1906. Over time, the company formed CB Commercial, acquired REI Limited (the international division of Richard Ellis), and continued growing to become CB Richard Ellis, also known as CBRE. CBRE Group, Inc. is the largest commercial real estate services company and investment firm in the world.
Growth in Toronto Tech Talent
Over the past five years, Toronto tech talent rose at the fastest rate of all cites in the ranking. The report notes that 80,100 new tech jobs have been created in Toronto, indicating a 54% rate of increase. The top six tech companies in Toronto are:
Ecobee was founded in 2007 and has become a market leader in home automation. Products include smart thermostats that conserve energy and help customers reduce their heating and cooling bills. This market is expected to experience a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 23.1% for the time period 2019-2024.
Toronto Tech Talent Grows with Canada’s Global Talent Stream
One reason that Toronto tech talent has been able to grow as fast as it has is due to Canada’s Global Talent Stream. This program is part of the nation’s Global Skills Strategy, designed to help companies grow by ensuring a ready pool of qualified talent. Eligible workers can start work in Canada at a faster pace with two-week processing of work permit applications. Global Talent Stream program eligibility requirements for employers include:
Canada actively seeks to encourage immigration of highly-skilled foreign workers to the country. The nation believes its future success is highly dependent on welcoming immigrants, as well as ensuring they fully integrate into society. Ontario, where Toronto is located, also focuses on attracting skilled workers to smaller cities and towns throughout the province.
Tech industry companies benefit from the nation’s progressive immigration policies. As a result of these policies, Toronto tech talent will continue to grow. Also, a pool of qualified workers is readily available to support corporate growth initiatives.
What Should Employers do to Leverage Toronto Tech Talent?
Employers in Toronto should review their company’s growth plans and requirements for tech industry jobs. They should also review their talent acquisition and management programs. This will help ensure these programs align with a growing number of highly skilled foreign workers.
Employers outside of Toronto should investigate the services of an International PEO. Relocation Management Companies (RMCs) can provide expert assistance to employers looking to expand their corporate presence in Canada.
GMS was the first relocation company to register as a .com, created the first online interactive tools and calculators, and revolutionized the entire relocation industry. GMS continues to set the industry pace as the pioneer in innovation and technology solutions with its proprietary MyRelocation™ technology platform.
Global Mobility Solutions is proud to be named and ranked #1 Overall, and #1 in Quality of Service by HRO Today’s 2019 Baker’s Dozen Customer Satisfaction Survey.
Learn best practices from Global Mobility Solutions, the relocation industry and technology experts. Contact our experts online to discuss your company’s interest in benefiting from the growth of Toronto tech talent, or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.
Building an inclusive workforce is not an insurmountable task. Often a company can be successful by expanding its use of various channels to broadcast hiring needs. Social media has risen in prominence as a strong platform for talent recruiting and acquisition.
Alternatively, a company might focus on shaping its cultural values towards an expansive view of its workforce. In turn, the company would benefit in many unique and helpful ways from the skills and experiences of various workforce populations. For example, some employees may be familiar with the countries and cultures of South America. As a result, they may contribute many helpful ideas to companies looking to expand in this region.
Top 5 Ways a Company can Build an Inclusive Workforce
1.Talent Acquisition Programs
Companies should review their talent acquisition program to ensure it is following industry best practices. In order to recruit top talent in a tight labor market, social media has become one of the most widely used platforms for recruitment. In fact, recruiting socially lets companies create an experience so people want to move to join their culture and environment. Companies that focus on creating a positive brand generate more interest among job seekers.
Europe maintains consistent use of PCs, laptops, and smartphones
Outside of Europe, PC and laptop use is declining
Asia leads in smartphone usage versus PCs
Tablets are more popular with older users
The increase in mobile-friendly applications is turning users away from PCs and consoles
2. Training and Apprenticeship Programs
Many companies have unique needs for specific skills across a variety of jobs. These companies benefit from well-defined training and development programs. Other companies may be in industries where apprenticeship programs are in place to ensure workers become qualified to perform their job, such as a nuclear plant technician.
Countries such as Australia have taken action to ensure funds are made available to train workers in skills and apprenticeships. All of these training and apprenticeship programs can be designed to promote an inclusive workforce.
3. Hire Workers Across Multiple Generations
The recent trend to hire employees with significant experience is continuing to add diversity to the workforce. To build a truly inclusive workforce, companies should examine their job outreach efforts to workers across generations. Baby Boomers in particular have been increasing both in total number of employees and as a percentage of new hires. There are several advantages for companies that hire older workers:
Older workers are often better educated than their younger counterparts
Today’s generation of older workers are much more health conscious with long life expectancy
They have unique insight into the market preferences of their peers
Mobile gaming is turning users away from PCs and consoles
4. Workers With Past Issues
Companies that expand their diversity and inclusion initiatives often see significant results. Specifically, research by McKinsey & Company has shown that:
Top performing companies exhibit higher diversity on executive teams
Diverse leadership teams help create higher financial performance
Higher performing companies show higher levels of diversity
Companies can focus on various levels of diversity to build an inclusive workforce. Basic diversity may include age, nationality, gender, and race. However, more expansive and deeper diversity can greatly expand a company’s talent pool. Companies that are truly in tune with their markets may find that it helps them to embrace expansive diversity, such as:
Lifestyles
Cultural Influences
Sexual Orientation
Mental/Physical Abilities
Hiring Employees with Past Issues
One additional area that might be considered is hiring employees with a criminal history. 35 US states and over 150 municipalities have enacted “ban-the-box” laws to help promote fair hiring policies. These laws require employers to consider a job candidate’s qualifications first, without consideration of any prior conviction or arrest record. These laws may help prevent discrimination against those with past issues who might otherwise be qualified for the position.
Only upon offering a position can a company inquire about a criminal history or convictions. Also, the mere presence of a record would not automatically disqualify a candidate from a job. As a result, candidates for positions that are not in any way related to their prior conviction may still be eligible for hiring, to prevent discrimination in the workplace.
It is important for companies to always focus on fair hiring practices as they build an inclusive workforce. Also, they should consult with employment law attorneys for guidance to be sure all federal, state, and local laws have been reviewed for compliance. Companies that might benefit from hiring someone with past convictions such as Martha Stewart are able to look past her criminal history and recognize the tremendous value she may be able to contribute.
What Should Employers do to Build an Inclusive Workforce?
Employers seeking to build an inclusive workforce have several avenues they can pursue. Importantly, companies should examine their culture and plans for future growth to determine how to proceed with their diversity and inclusion initiatives. Corporate expansion plans, mergers and acquisitions, and product development plans should all be considered as potential drivers for inclusive workforce development.
Companies considering relocation for new hires or transferees should review their relocation programs. This will help ensure they have a competitive advantage. Also, it will ensure their program provides the highest level of relocation benefits and services for their employees.
Conclusion
GMS’ team of global relocation experts has helped thousands of our clients develop relocation programs that attract and retain qualified employees throughout the world. Our team can help your company determine how to build an inclusive workforce by leveraging your company’s unique culture, training, and talent acquisition programs.
GMS was the first relocation company to register as a .com. The company also created the first online interactive tools and calculators, and revolutionized the entire relocation industry. GMS continues to set the industry pace as the pioneer in innovation and technology solutions with its proprietary MyRelocation® technology platform.
Global Mobility Solutions is proud to be named and ranked #1 Overall, and #1 in Quality of Service by HRO Today’s 2019 Baker’s Dozen Customer Satisfaction Survey.
Contact our experts online to discuss your company’s interest in relocation programs that build an inclusive workforce, or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.
Cities in the United States grow for various reasons, but the fastest growing cities share several things in common. Demographics in the US show that overall population growth was 0.6% in 2018, the lowest level recorded in 80 years. Several states are experiencing population declines, and might benefit from unique programs to increase immigrants with high levels of skills. However, some US cities are expanding much faster than others and the nation as a whole. What are the fastest growing cities in the US?
Top 10 Fastest Growing Cities
The 2019 top 10 fastest growing cities in the US are:
What Should Employers and Job Seekers in the Fastest Growing Cities do?
Employers in the fastest growing cities should review their corporate initiatives to ensure they can leverage these city’s population growth. They should work with a qualified Relocation Management Company (RMC) that can provide a full range of pre-decision services, career services, and mobility consulting.
Employers may consider relocating new hires or transferees to fill positions in the fastest growing cities as growth continues. They should provide transferees and their family members with as many valuable resources as possible to help increase relocation success.
Employers not currently located in one of the fastest growing cities should look into the possibility of expansion or relocation for their business. Cities that are growing generate a number of opportunities for companies, including:
New customers
Growing workforce
Higher quality of life
Sustainable business growth
Conclusion
GMS’ team of corporate relocation experts has helped thousands of our clients understand how to fill positions in their local markets, including the fastest growing cities in the US. Our team can help your company understand how to use pre-hire assessments to identify qualified candidates. Also, we can help your company design a relocation program following industry best practices that results in higher relocation success rates and greater transferee satisfaction.
Global Mobility Solutions is proud to be named and ranked #1 Overall, and #1 in Quality of Service by HRO Today’s 2019 Baker’s Dozen Customer Satisfaction Survey.
Learn best practices from Global Mobility Solutions, the relocation industry and technology experts who are dedicated to keeping you informed and connected. Contact our experts online to discuss your company’s need to leverage growth in the fastest growing cities, or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.
In part 2 of our series on Los Angeles Housing Options for relocating employees, we focus on single family homes. For transferees moving to Los Angeles, there are many advantages to buying a single family home as opposed to renting. While there are many housing options including condominiums and apartments, those who buy single family homes often enjoy significant benefits compared to renting.
Advantages to Buying Single Family Homes in Los Angeles
Rents in some markets exceed the cost of home ownership, so buyers can save money each month if they buy instead of rent. Also, mortgages are similar to savings plans and investments, and buyers often gain equity in the home. Buying single family homes may help transferees move up to larger homes at a later date. Transferees looking at buying single family homes will gain the most compared to renting if they plan to live in the home more than seven years. The ability to claim home mortgage interest as a deduction is a major benefit to owning single family homes with a mortgage less than a million dollars. Employees should consult their tax advisor.
Companies should encourage transferees to buy instead of rent, in order to help them establish roots in their community. Relocating employees will be more likely to view their opportunity as a career if they commit to their new location. Companies that offer home purchase benefits are more likely to be seen as committed to the transferee. They can also save money with the Buyer Value Option Program to avoid paying tax gross-ups on commissions and closing costs.
Highlights of Los Angeles Neighborhoods with Single Family Homes
Los Angeles has hundreds of neighborhoods and districts. Choosing where to buy single family homes can be a daunting task. Many helpful resources are available to help home buyers learn about the history and features of locations in and around the city. If a home buyer has a few general ideas of what they are seeking, chances are they will be able to find it in Los Angeles.
Hollywood: One of the most famous neighborhoods in the world, with iconic locations like TCL Chinese Theatre, star-studded Walk of Fame, the capital of the entertainment industry, and the huge Hollywood sign on the hills above so you always know where you are.
Beverly Hills: Featuring legendary Rodeo Drive shopping, ultra-luxury glamour, exemplary of the Los Angeles dream of making it big in the entertainment industry.
What You Should Know About Buying Single Family Homes in Los Angeles
Los Angeles neighborhoods have much to offer residents and visitors. Transferees looking to buy single family homes should work with a Realtor®. A qualified local Realtor® will have knowledge of the city and the market for single family homes.
Erik notes that Los Angeles is enjoying a strong seller’s market right now, so what is a potential buyer to do? In part 2 of a 3 part series, Erik shares his 9 tips and ideas for buying single family homes in Los Angeles.
Los Angeles Housing Options: Single Family Homes
9 Tips and Ideas for Buying Single Family Homes in Los Angeles
1. Know What You Want
Know what you want before you start looking. What you want (and where you want to live) will play a huge role in the cost as well. Beyond the type of home, decide on what features you want, from the home style to the neighborhood. If you have non-negotiables, identify those from the beginning.
2. Be Realistic
Related to the tip above, you do need to be realistic. Tons of square footage, updated fixtures, and a pool might not be realistic in your budget. Or, you might need to broaden where you are looking to find single family homes that fit into your budget. The first home you purchase in Los Angeles might not be your dream home, but buying any home in Los Angeles is a big deal, given the high cost and competitive market.
3. Obtain Pre-Approval for a Mortgage
Before you even go look at a house, get your finances in order. Decide on your budget, how much you can put down, and obtain pre-approval for a mortgage. A pre-approval doesn’t guarantee that you will get the mortgage. However, it does mean that the bank determines that you are a good borrower. As a result, they will make a commitment to finance your home once you find one. In a market as competitive as Los Angeles, there is a good chance that sellers won’t even consider an offer if a buyer can’t provide a pre-approval letter from their lender.
4. Offer Cash
If you want to sweeten your offer, you should make a cash offer. A cash offer is more attractive to a seller because they don’t have to worry about dealing with your mortgage lender or appraisals. Cash offers can usually close quicker as well, making it much more likely that a seller will choose a cash offer over one where the buyer is financing the home purchase.
5. Shop Around and Have Options
Because the market is so competitive, single family homes aren’t on the market very long. As a result, you have to be ready to put in a bid right away. You will also want to make sure you have backup choices. Bidding wars are becoming more and more common, so you can’t assume that you are going to get the house. Make sure you have other single family homes that you like in the event that your bid is not selected.
6. Personal Enjoyment versus Investment
A buyer may also consider an area that fits their lifestyle versus an area that is gentrifying or improving. Gentrifying areas can be on the rise, but may not have all the established amenities of a more established neighborhood or area. However, this is often reflected in the price of the homes.
7. Consider a Fixer-Upper
If you are really tied to a certain location but can’t find an updated home with everything you want, consider buying a fixer-upper and put in the work to get it to what you want. This is a great way to get a home in a pricier neighborhood and give you a home that has what you want by building or renovating. Envision what a dated or non-updated home could look like with your updates, rather than focusing on what they look like currently.
8. Compromise on the Area
If you want a home less than $1 million in Los Angeles, you might have to look outside of the more upscale neighborhoods. You can explore outside of the greater Los Angeles area, but still stay in Los Angeles County, and find single family homes for much less money. The median home price in Los Angeles County is around $600,000, making it more affordable for you if you are willing to be flexible. Outlying communities still give you a close proximity to the city, but at a much lower cost.
9. The Bottom Line
Buying single family homes in Los Angeles requires you to do some work ahead of time. You need to get your finances in order. You will also need patience, and the ability to move quickly if you find a home that you like. With the right Realtor® helping you navigate the real estate market, you can make it out of the process with your sanity intact.
What Should Employers do?
Employers should share helpful information about single family homes in Los Angeles with their relocating employees. This will help transferees and their family members learn about the housing market in the city. As a result, relocating employees will have valuable information to help them easily find single family homes that meet their requirements.
Employers should also provide as much information about the new location as possible. They should work with a qualified and experienced Relocation Management Company (RMC) that can provide many useful resources to assist relocating employees and their family members. Destination spotlights that highlight many aspects of a location are helpful reference materials to share with transferees during their pre-decision process. Video destination spotlights are a great resource to visually show employees and their family members their new location in Los Angeles.
Conclusion
Global Mobility Solutions’ team of corporate relocation experts has helped thousands of our clients understand how to identify and share valuable real estate and neighborhood information with transferees. Our team can help your company share helpful information on single family homes in Los Angeles that will give transferees peace of mind as they go through their relocation process.
GMS was the first relocation company to register as a .com. The company also created the first online interactive tools and calculators, and revolutionized the entire relocation industry. GMS continues to set the industry pace as the pioneer in innovation and technology solutions with its proprietary MyRelocation™ technology platform.
Global Mobility Solutions is proud to be named and ranked #1 Overall, and #1 in Quality of Service by HRO Today’s 2019 Baker’s Dozen Customer Satisfaction Survey.
Learn best practices from Global Mobility Solutions, the relocation industry and technology experts. GMS is dedicated to keeping you informed and connected. Contact our experts online to discuss your company’s need for information about single family homes in Los Angeles to share with your transferees, or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.
Despite continuing uncertainty over Brexit, UK employers are seeking a lower salary threshold for foreign workers. Currently, all non-European Union (EU) citizens who work in the UK must earn a minimum salary of £30,000. Proposals under consideration will extend this requirement to EU citizens following Brexit.
Former UK Secretary of State for the Home Department Sajid Javid unveiled these proposals in December 2018 in a white paper on immigration, “The UK’s future skills-based immigration system.” This white paper describes proposals on new laws that may become the foundation for a government bill. Specific points in the white paper cover topics on immigrant employment such as:
Skilled foreign workers seeking visas that cover a five-year period must earn a minimum salary of £30,000.
Eliminating all caps on highly-skilled workers from both the EU and non-EU countries
Coalition Notes Need for Lower Salary Threshold
A coalition consisting of employers and educational institutions notes that over 60% of all jobs in the UK are currently below the £30,000 threshold. This coalition includes, among others:
The coalition supports measures that create a lower salary threshold for foreign workers. As a result, the group proposes a lower salary threshold of £20,000. Other measures the coalition supports include increases in the amount and length for temporary visas and post-education work visas.
What Does This Mean?
Impending implementation of some sort of Brexit plan has already led job seekers from the EU to reduce their search for positions in the UK. As a result, a great number of positions are being filled by British workers. However, this is a temporary solution, at best. The UK is experiencing several trends that combine to leave employers without workers:
Declining UK labor force participation by EU nationals.
Self-employment continues to increase to record high levels.
Unemployment rate in the UK continues to decline.
Job openings in the UK are rising to levels that continue to set records.
What Should Employers Seeking a Lower Salary Threshold do?
Employers and coalition members should continue their efforts to promote a lower salary threshold for foreign workers. Many of the coalition members represent industries that employ large numbers of workers in lower wage occupations. Competition for workers across all industries and skill levels continues to increase, so the coalition will continue its efforts.
Employers in the UK should examine their employment needs. They should review their relocation program to determine if it benefits their talent acquisition goals during times of extremely tight labor markets and continued economic growth.
GMS’ team of global relocation experts has helped thousands of our clients develop hiring and recruiting programs to attract highly skilled job seekers in the UK. Our team can help your company determine how to attract job seekers looking for employment opportunities. We can help your company attract workers whether or not the coalition succeeds with the lower salary threshold for foreign workers.
GMS was the first relocation company to register as a .com. The company also created the first online interactive tools and calculators, and revolutionized the entire relocation industry. GMS continues to set the industry pace as the pioneer in innovation and technology solutions with its proprietary MyRelocation™ technology platform.
Global Mobility Solutions is proud to be named and ranked #1 Overall, and #1 in Quality of Service by HRO Today’s 2019 Baker’s Dozen Customer Satisfaction Survey.
Contact our experts online to discuss your company’s recruiting, hiring, and relocation program needs as the UK continues to examine the possibility of a lower salary threshold for foreign workers, or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.
Clients can save time and increase the accuracy of transferee initiations in their relocation program through an Application Programming Interface, or relocation API. An API provides a framework for different computer systems to communicate and share information. Generally, it lists operations that software developers can use in their design work. Also, an API includes descriptions for what they actually do. A relocation API facilities the communication of information that a Relocation Management Company (RMC) uses for initiations or other relocation-related functions.
Where Should a Client Start with a Relocation API?
The Global Mobility Solutions (GMS) team of developers has extensive experience building APIs to help clients with their relocation program needs. The team recently built an exceptionally robust relocation API for a client’s in-house system to interact with MyRelocation®. Award winning cloud-based MyRelocation® technology is specifically designed to streamline a company’s relocation management.
The GMS MyRelocation® technology provides everything a transferee needs to track and manage their relocation. It also provides clients with an advance financial reporting dashboard including over 200 custom reports on demand.
GMS’ team of developers recommends that before discussing a relocation API, clients should identify their goals. Having clear goals and defined end tasks helps developers quickly hone in on several possible solutions that will work correctly. In general, clients should consider goals including:
Increasing process efficiency
Improving data accuracy
Providing flexibility for data and processes
Enhancing speed of data transfer
Additional and possible future uses for the relocation API data
For example, a client may want to implement a relocation API to replace current processes of completing online forms or submitting PDF documents that duplicate data in the client’s current system. Many clients with transferees already have the relocating employee’s information within their internal Human Resource Information System (HRIS). A relocation API can leverage this data to facilitate relocation initiations in the MyRelocation® portal. That same data is then available for use to interface with the GMS Travel Management Program. It might also be of use with visa and immigration systems for global relocations.
What does a Relocation API do?
Once a client defines their goals, developers can work together to define the relocation API. Major elements of it should include:
What the API actually does—the data it communicates with between systems
How the API works within the systems—where does data reside and how does it move between systems
The specific actions on each side of the interface to facilitate its functioning
Employers should examine their current relocation programs and processes to identify opportunities to create a relocation API. This will help internal departments increase their efficiency and save valuable time they can use to focus on business goals and corporate objectives.
Global Mobility Solutions’ team of corporate relocation experts has helped thousands of our clients understand how to identify and develop their relocation API. Our team can help your company create a relocation API that follows industry best practices. As a result, your company will save time, and increase its data accuracy.
GMS was the first relocation company to register as a .com. The company also created the first online interactive tools and calculators, and revolutionized the entire relocation industry. GMS continues to set the industry pace as the pioneer in innovation and technology solutions with its proprietary MyRelocation® technology platform.
Global Mobility Solutions is proud to be named and ranked #1 Overall, and #1 in Quality of Service by HRO Today’s 2019 Baker’s Dozen Customer Satisfaction Survey.
Learn best practices from Global Mobility Solutions, the relocation industry and technology experts. Contact our experts online to discuss your company’s interest in developing a relocation API, or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.
The China Belt and Road Initiative recently hosted its second forum. Over 5,000 delegates from over 150 countries, including the leaders of 37 nations, attended the forum held in Beijing in April 2019. The infrastructure project began in 2013 as a way to rebuild several historical trading routes across Europe and Asia that had been lost over the years, previously known as the “Silk Road.” The road was basically a widespread network of routes that connected China to other nations in the Far East, Middle East, and Europe. The Han Dynasty opened trade with the West along these routes in 130 B.C. However, the routes were closed over 600 years ago when the Ottoman Empire boycotted trade with China.
China’s New Silk Road Created by the China Belt and Road Initiative
China’s “New Silk Road” is a signature project for President Xi Jinpeng. The project is officially known as the “One Belt, One Road” (OBOR) initiative. In addition to large infrastructure projects across the region, the hope is that trade along these routes will increase. China is looking for a global resurgence in a push to expand the country’s international influence. Some initiatives preceded the OBOR, such as China’s flagship economic corridor development with Pakistan. China is seeking to become the center of global economic activity, with all of the power and influence this status will bring. Additional benefits of the China Belt and Road Initiative include:
Opportunities to absorb China’s current excess industrial capacity
Access to new capital for large state firms that already carry a significant amount of debt
State banks avert any financial crises arising from large state firm’s non-performing loans
International Cooperation for the China Belt and Road Initiative
China has been developing strong international ties with nations critical to the success of its Belt and Road Initiative. China’s success is clearly seen in its interactions with the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) and the New Development Bank (NBD) for BRICS nations. In fact, China has long been considered one of the top emerging international markets. With the NDB headquarters in Shanghai, China’s influential role as a financial center among the BRICS nations is a certainty. BRICS nations include:
Brazil
Russia
India
China
South Africa
Increasing Imports from Nations Participating in the China Belt and Road Initiative
What Does the China Belt and Road Initiative Mean for Employers?
Employers in nations where the China Belt and Road Initiative projects are in planning stages may be able to leverage opportunities to participate directly or indirectly in various parts of the initiative. Although China’s focus is for its State Owned Enterprises to benefit from these projects, local firms in the countries will benefit as the projects come to fruition. The benefit may arise through direct investment in project-related activities. Alternatively, it may arise through increased trade resulting from the China Belt and Road Initiative.
What should Employers do?
Employers currently located in countries where China Belt and Road Initiative projects are planned or underway should investigate opportunities where they might be able to participate. They should also review future production plans that might need adjustment for potential increased trade opportunities with China.
GMS’ team of global relocation experts has helped thousands of our clients develop relocation programs that attract and retain qualified employees to various destinations. Our team can help your company determine how to attract and retain new hires needed to leverage opportunities arising from the China Belt and Road Initiative.
GMS was the first relocation company to register as a .com. The company also created the first online interactive tools and calculators, and revolutionized the entire relocation industry. GMS continues to set the industry pace as the pioneer in innovation and technology solutions with its proprietary MyRelocation™ technology platform.
Global Mobility Solutions is proud to be named and ranked #1 Overall, and #1 in Quality of Service by HRO Today’s 2019 Baker’s Dozen Customer Satisfaction Survey.
Learn best practices from Global Mobility Solutions, the relocation industry and technology experts. Contact our experts online to discuss your company’s relocation program needs in countries that benefit from the China Belt and Road Initiative, or call us at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.
Allied Van Lines conducts a regular “On the Move” survey of employees who move for work to determine the transferee moving challenges from their viewpoint. Survey responses from over 1,000 people provide helpful insight into the impact of workforce relocation. The findings reveal specific points that companies should address in their relocation programs.
The Top 3 transferee moving challenges identified in the survey show points companies should address to improve employee retention and satisfaction. Companies should choose to work with a qualified Relocation Management Company (RMC). RMCs have knowledge and experience to help clients design robust relocation programs that provide the best relocation experience for transferees.
What are the Top 3 Transferee Moving Challenges?
1. Short Timeframes for Moves
The majority of survey respondents were given 0 to 30 days for their move, and the next largest group were given 31 to 60 days. Increasing market competition and evolving dynamics require corporate speed and flexibility. Companies often must act quickly to hire qualified staff and move them to where they can be the most productive.
RMCs have resources and solutions to help companies maintain responsiveness while providing a positive relocation experience for employees. Transferee moving challenges related to short timeframes can be addressed with a robust relocation policy that is designed to provide solutions that benefit both clients and relocating employees.
2. Finding a New Home
One of the most difficult and time-consuming transferee moving challenges is finding a home in the new location. Choices can vary, and may include some of the following:
RMCs have a number of solutions for transferee moving challenges related to finding a new home. Many transferees are relocating to a new location they know very little about, and will then search for a new home to purchase. A Realtor® working with the RMC should ask a number of questions to help the transferee clarify and express their preferences and interests.
3. Making Friends in the New Location
Transferee moving challenges are often amplified by the effects of the move on spouses and family members. While the transferee may have a built-in network of work colleagues in the new location to help them with their transition at work, they and their family will need to settle into the new community and make new friends.
One of the first challenges a transferee faces is career support for their spouse. Successful relocations often hinge on the spouse or partner’s career needs also being addressed. Transferees expect career support for spouses and partners as part of their relocation experience. In our Case Study on Educational Institution Relocation Programs, GMS helped a client learn that their biggest challenge in retaining new hires was due to not having career support for spouses and partners moving to the new location.
Pre-Decision Services Help Transferees
Companies should provide Pre-Decision Services in their relocation policy for transferees to help them learn about their new location. Candidate assessments and family pre-decision evaluations help companies determine the employee’s expectations, skills, personal qualities, family situation, and their financial readiness for the relocation. Helpful information an RMC can provide to the employee and their family for their decision-making process includes:
Cost of living analysis for the new area
Market analysis for home sales
School reports and information about activities
Moving cost estimates
Community tours to help familiarize employees and their family members with the new location
Provide Support for Spouses, Partners, and Family Members
Ensuring health insurance coverage during the interim period
Identifying nearby medical resources and primary care physicians
What Should Employers do to Address Transferee Moving Challenges?
Transferee moving challenges should be addressed with robust solutions. Companies should work with a qualified and experienced RMC that can help them design a relocation policy that promotes successful relocations. The career needs of spouses and partners should be included in the transferee’s relocation experience. Family support is also critical to reduce any disruption from the move and provide peace of mind for the transferee, their spouse or partner, and their family members.
Conclusion
GMS’ team of corporate relocation experts has helped thousands of our clients develop relocation policies and programs that address transferee moving challenges. Our team can help your company determine how to design a robust relocation program that provides the best relocation experience for your company’s transferees and their family members.
GMS was the first relocation company to register as a .com. The company also created the first online interactive tools and calculators, and revolutionized the entire relocation industry. GMS continues to set the industry pace as the pioneer in innovation and technology solutions with its proprietary MyRelocation™ technology platform.
Global Mobility Solutions is proud to be named and ranked #1 Overall, and #1 in Quality of Service by HRO Today’s 2019 Baker’s Dozen Customer Satisfaction Survey.
Contact our experts online to discuss your company’s relocation program and the need to reduce transferee moving challenges, or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.