These Small Perks Can Help Your Employees Settle Into Their New City After a Major Relocation
Relocating for a job is an exciting step that millions take each year worldwide, but it also comes with its fair share of trials and tribulations.
It’s essential for employers to consider this and accommodate the needs of team members who have uprooted their entire lives to move to a new city on behalf of the organization they work for.
Here are some small but meaningful perks you should consider offering if you want this transition to be as smooth as possible.
Welcome Packages: A Little Bit of Home Goes a Long Way
Moving to a new city can be daunting and overwhelming. To help employees settle in, providing welcome packages is an excellent start. These should include items that will make their transition more manageable, such as local maps and transportation passes for getting around town quickly.
You could also provide them with information about the neighborhood they’ll be living in or any helpful tips you think they may need to know before starting work, which will be doubly important if they’re moving with children.
Additionally, add home comforts, like snacks from their hometown or small souvenirs that remind them of where they came from, for extra motivation throughout this challenging process.
Coffee House Culture: Helping Newbies Connect
One of the best ways to help your employees settle into their new city is by introducing them to the coffee house culture. Invite your team members for a cup of coffee and allow them to meet locals who can share tips about what’s happening in town or provide insight into any exciting activities they should check out.
You could also invite local business owners, entrepreneurs, and other professionals who can offer advice or even business opportunities. This will make it easier for them to acclimate to their new surroundings and build meaningful connections that can last beyond relocation.
Networking Events to Establish Professional Relationships
An essential part of relocation is making professional connections in the new city, not just in a casual coffee house setting.
Hosting networking events or workshops can help employees build a network and develop relationships with local movers and shakers to whom they may not have had access before. This could be an excellent opportunity for them to learn more about their industry in this area and share any ideas or resources that would benefit everyone involved.
It’s also an excellent way to get feedback on how your organization has handled the relocation process, giving you valuable insights into what works best.
This can even be implemented as part of remote staff appreciation strategies. With modern tech, it’s easy to host virtual networking events so that team members from all locations can benefit from the relationship-building and camaraderie they provide.
Local Discounts for Every Day Necessities & Treats
Small things like discounts on everyday necessities can make all the difference when moving to a new city. Consider offering your employees discounted rates at local stores and restaurants, or even provide them with coupons for specific products they may need when settling in.
You could also give out gift cards that allow them to explore their new surroundings, whether it’s trying out an exciting eatery or catching a movie at the cinema. These simple perks will help show how much you value their contribution while ensuring they feel comfortable and welcomed in their new home away from home.
City Tours and Adventure Days To Show Off the Best of The Town
Organizing a tour or adventure day can highlight what your city offers new employees. Take them on an informative journey around town, highlighting key attractions and places they should visit.
Also, if there are any nearby hiking trails or outdoor activities, suggest those for some time away from work. This is an excellent way for everyone to bond and get familiar with their surroundings, and it’s always lovely to show newcomers how much fun their new home has in store. Plus, it will give them more confidence when exploring independently later on.
Easy Transportation Options For Getting Around in Style
Providing access to transportation is critical when it comes to helping employees settle into their new city. Consider offering them access to discounted public transport services or providing company cars for their stay.
You could also ensure they know about bike-sharing programs, carpools, and other alternatives for getting around town quickly and safely. Whether they need a lift from work or help to find unique places that aren’t always accessible by bus, these small perks will show your commitment to making relocation as stress-free as possible.
Let GMS Help You Help Your EmployeeS
Global Mobility Solutions (GMS) has been helping companies get employees and their families from point A to point B since 1987. Our relocation specialists are equipped with the skills and knowledge it takes to assist your company in setting up comprehensive relocation packages. Not to mention, the more competitive and appealing your relocation packages are, the easier it is to hire employees who are willing to accept relocation assignments.
Our team is always on standby and ready to walk you through the beginning steps of how to set up your employees for a successful moving process. Set up a free, risk-free consultation with one of our business development managers today!
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Sam Hoey | CRP, GMS
Senior Vice President, Global Account Management Sam joined Global Mobility Solutions in 1996 and has a unique perspective with her 25 years of industry experience. Samantha offers her clients relocation expertise and a commitment to excellence in her. Her proficiency in orchestrating the BVO and GPO Programs, as well as relocation policy design and implementation, are invaluable assets to the accounts she manages. Her experience in administering Pre-Decision Relocation services to enhance the recruiting process further demonstrates her unique abilities to service her clients. Samantha’s diverse experience, leadership, and outstanding communication skills enable her to manage the relocation process for her clients with finesse and polished professionalism.
