Global Mobility Solutions
Global Mobility Solutions
Global Mobility Solutions

Category: Corporate Relocation

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Corporate Relocation

Virtual Tutoring Helps Ensure Successful Relocations

Schoolboy educate online. Father helps his son with home work. Boy in video conference with teacher on laptop at home.

Many transferees relocating with children can benefit from virtual tutoring. When family matters are taken into account, relocations are more likely to be successful. Relocation programs should include career support for spouses. They should also take care to ensure children’s needs are met. School searches and identifying specific needs helps ensure children acclimate well to their new location.

GMS spoke with Inigo Lopez, CEO of BiCortex Business Language Services. Through their experience and research, Inigo’s company has determined that one of the main reasons relocation programs do not succeed is because the family’s adaptation to their new location is not successful. Inigo agreed to share his expert guidance on this topic.

Helping Children Learn at Their Own Pace With Virtual Tutoring

In Inigo’s experience, children learn faster than adults. They also generally do not experience problems learning languages. However, adapting to their new school is usually the hardest part of the whole relocation experience. School curriculums are different in every country and therefore the requirements will differ between international schools.

Virtual tutoring sessions give the opportunity for parents to be more flexible with their time. At the same time, parents can obtain professional support for their children’s learning across a wide range of school subjects. The extent of tutoring can range from regular lessons or just a little help before an exam.

Virtual Tutoring Options

BiCortex provides tutoring for children in a wide variety of subjects, including:

  • Language (Portuguese, Italian, German, English, Spanish, French)
  • Mathematics, Geometry
  • Chemistry, Science, Biology, Physics
  • Writing/Composition, Literature
  • History
  • Geography

At BiCortex, the tutoring session may be one-to-one, either online or in-person. However, it may also be virtual tutoring in groups with other children, perhaps located in other countries. For example, currently BiCortex is conducting lessons for both Italian and French. In each group there are 3-5 children, aged 9 to 11. The children are from: Spain, Mexico, Brazil, and the United States.

Adaptive Virtual Tutoring

BiCortex can provide the right trainer that adapts to your child’s needs. The company can also offer tutoring in the child’s native language if preferred.

Some of the tutoring courses BiCortex provides are the following:

  • Academic Text Revision/Proofreading Services
  • School Tutoring
  • Preparatory Classes for upcoming Exams and Diplomas
  • Preparation for Entrance Exams to Schools and Universities
  • Relocation/Expatriate Trainings
  • Preparation for Foreign Language Schools

In cases where either the students request to have lessons virtually (with a live trainer), or due to major disruptions such as offices closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, BiCortex delivers training online.

The BiCortex Virtual Tutoring Platform

BiCortex has its own platform to deliver virtual instructor-led lessons in a fully professional, secure, and GDPR-compliant format.

Features of this state-of-the-art virtual tutoring platform include:

Ease of Use

  • Download-free (no need to install a plug-in on most browsers)
  • Scheduling directly by students based on course or instructor availability
  • Class reminders and notifications
  • Interactive whiteboard

Language Friendly

  • Interface in several languages
  • Toolbox with extensive list of verb conjugations for the following languages: German, English, Spanish, Italian, Dutch, Portuguese and Swedish

Audio/Video

  • Superior audio/video quality
  • Recording/playing-back audio and video excerpts

Lessons, Documents, Assignments

  • Lesson materials are pre-loaded
  • Document sharing
  • Homework and assignments for students

Reporting Capabilities

  • Attendance reports
  • Learning analytics

Just as with face-to-face training, the content and methodology are adapted to the children’s needs. Also, books and materials are either virtual or delivered to the children through mail delivery services.

What Should Employers do About Virtual Tutoring?

Relocating employees will have questions regarding their children’s education. From the choice of schools to the availability of specialized learning programs, all aspects of the education process are important to address. Employers should provide information about virtual tutoring solutions and other helpful resources. By providing useful resources for transferees and their children, your company will help ensure a successful relocation.

GMS provides our clients with an extensive range of virtual tutoring solutions, language training services, and many other valuable resources so employee relocations are successful. Our high-touch service model fully extends to helping transferees and their children with everything they need to ensure a successful educational experience during their relocation process.

Conclusion

GMS’ team of corporate relocation experts has helped thousands of our clients learn about valuable resources such as virtual tutoring for children. These resources help relocating employees and their children quickly and easily settle in to their new location. Our team can help your company determine the best virtual tutoring solution for your relocation program to promote successful relocations.

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.

New SafeRelo™ COVID-19 Knowledge Portal

GMS recently launched its new SafeRelo™ COVID-19 Knowledge Portal featuring a number of helpful resources including:

  • Curated selection of news and articles specific to managing relocation programs and issues relating to COVID-19
  • Comprehensive guide to national, international, and local online sources for current data
  • Program/Policy Evaluation (PPE) Tool for instant relocation policy reviews

Contact our experts online to discuss virtual tutoring for children as a valuable resource for your company’s relocation program, or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.

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Corporate Relocation Corporate relocation tips Domestic Relocation Domestic Relocation Challenges

Temporary Housing Solutions in Times of Crisis: 2020 California and Oregon Wildfires

Woman sitting on floor, smiling, holding coffee cup, looking at large dog in in their temporary housing

Temporary housing solutions have applications beyond providing homes for transferees on short-term assignments. Recently GMS was contacted by several clients and prospective clients seeking assistance for employees displaced by the 2020 California and Oregon wildfires. Many of these employees lost their homes to fires or had to be evacuated to another location.

Each of the stories is heartbreaking for the employee and their family members. Ultimately, GMS was able to provide immediate assistance for everyone who called seeking temporary housing.

Sam Hoey, Senior Vice President, Business Development, oversaw the GMS response for our clients and prospects. Sam agreed to share the solutions that GMS implemented.

Traditional Temporary Housing Solutions

GMS recommends clients choose traditional temporary housing solutions for a number of reasons. Important criteria that are addressed with traditional solutions include:

  1. Move-in Inspection covering several points
  2. Cleanliness meeting specific standards
  3. Emergencies and Maintenance Issues
  4. Security Standards including the Wi-Fi System

Traditional temporary housing gives clients and employees peace of mind that these major areas of concern are taken care of down to the last detail.

Scope of Client’s Immediate Needs for Temporary Housing

Destruction from the 2020 California and Oregon wildfires is vast and widespread:

California

Oregon

The wide area of destruction spread over both states impacts many employees. In some cases, over 400 employees were displaced in just a few days, with many actually losing their entire homes. Employers seeking to help for their displaced employees contacted GMS to discuss how best to help those in need.

GMS Leverages Temporary Housing Solutions

  • After receiving requests for assistance, Sam sent the clients and prospects a clearly written communication. The instructions were to send the communication to their employees about who to contact at GMS for immediate assistance.
  • GMS set up every employee in need with a GMS Relocation Coach. The Coach assessed their needs, and in many cases then sent the request to a client-directed preferred temporary housing provider, ATB Housing.
  • A few cases required specialized responses. One employee displaced in Salem, Oregon, also had 4 large dogs. Instead of sending the dogs to a boarding kennel, GMS sourced a nearby fully furnished apartment for the employee on a 30 day rental basis.
  • Some employees preferred booking extended stay hotels instead of temporary housing for the time being since they did not know what insurance would be offering them for their specific cases. ATB Housing also arranged the hotel options for these employees.

What Does This Mean?

GMS has a team of experts that help clients address nearly any relocation issue, including an emergency request for temporary housing. Clients should work with a Relocation Management Company (RMC) that has extensive knowledge and experience in housing solutions for employees.

Conclusion

GMS’ team of corporate relocation experts has helped thousands of our clients understand how to respond to emergency situations and changing employee needs. Our team can help your company understand how to find appropriate temporary housing solutions during any type of local crisis, including wildfires.

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.

New SafeRelo™ COVID-19 Knowledge Portal

GMS recently launched its new SafeRelo™ COVID-19 Knowledge Portal featuring a number of helpful resources including:

  • Curated selection of news and articles specific to managing relocation programs and issues relating to COVID-19
  • Comprehensive guide to national, international, and local online sources for current data
  • Program/Policy Evaluation (PPE) Tool for instant relocation policy reviews

Learn best practices from Global Mobility Solutions, the relocation industry and technology experts. Contact our experts online to learn about temporary housing solutions for your employees, or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.

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Corporate Relocation

COVID-19 Travel Recommendations and Resources

Many employers must navigate an increasingly complicated world of COVID-19 travel recommendations brought on by the pandemic. One of the biggest challenges is that recommendations may change rather frequently. Some states or countries may have a regular update pattern for their data. Still others may target their data to organizations such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

In an environment with so much volatility, employers should confirm their travel policies are up-to-date. These policies should take into account data sources that provide guidance and assurance for travelers. For any employees that travel, employers should recognize a duty to provide updated information and guidance. This will help employees understand how they might travel safely during the pandemic.

COVID-19 Travel Recommendations: CDC Resources

The CDC maintains an updated Geographic Risk Assessment for COVID-19 Transmission website. This includes an interactive map that offers specific COVID-19 travel health information for each destination. The map is color-coded with five different colors for the following risk assessments:

  • High Risk
  • Moderate Risk
  • Low Risk
  • No Travel Health Notice (Risk is Very Low)
  • No Data Available (Risk is Unknown)

Interestingly, the list of countries, areas, regions, and municipalities where there is no travel health notice includes both large and small population centers. The list includes:

  • Taiwan (over 23,000,000 residents)
  • Macau SAR (over 649,000 residents)
  • Isle of Man (over 85,000 residents)
  • Saba (over 1,900 residents).

The CDC notes that it bases its COVID-19 risk assessments on two data sets: virus transmission rates and healthcare capacity/public health infrastructure at the destination.

COVID-19 Travel Recommendations: U.S. Travel Association

The U.S. Travel Association® maintains an online COVID-19 Resources for Destinations website. Their website lists a number of resources for travel information. The “COVID-19 Travel Industry Research” section specifically relates to travel destinations, trends, and traveler sentiments. Resources include:

  • Tourism Economics: weekly analysis on travel spending
  • Arrivalist®: daily trends tracker of automotive trips of at least 50 miles
  • Destinations Analysts: weekly insights into US business and leisure travelers

Other sections for resources include “CARES Act Relief Resources,” “COVID-19 Policy Priorities,” and “Travel Industry Recovery Resources.” The U.S. Travel Association® has published a fact sheet with several statistics showing the impact of COVID-19. Overall, the pandemic’s impact on the industry is greater than the impact of September 11 events and the Great Depression. The fact sheet includes a number of recommendations for lawmakers to help the industry and the nation’s economy move toward recovery.

COVID-19 Travel Recommendations: State Resources

Many states in the US have prepared responses and resources to help residents and visitors understand how they should comply with the state’s requirements. Several states have specific advisories relating to visitors coming from specific destinations.

Connecticut

For example, the state of Connecticut maintains an online “Travel Advisory for Visitors to Connecticut” with a note that it is updated on a weekly basis each Tuesday. Governor Ned Lamont of Connecticut issued Executive Order No. 7111 on July 21, 2020. The Order requires the following:

“…anyone traveling into Connecticut from a state with a positive test rate higher than 10 per 100,000 residents, or higher than a 10% test positivity rate over a 7-day rolling average, are directed to self-quarantine for a 14-day period from the time of last contact within the identified state.”

Connecticut also maintains an online “Connecticut COVID-19 Response” information portal with a number of additional resources

South Dakota

By comparison, the state of South Dakota does not have any travel restrictions for visitors. Governor Kristi Noem issued an Executive Order regarding COVID-19 guidelines. Generally, the Order requires that residents and employers must follow CDC guidelines in response to the pandemic.

However, some routes in the state that go through tribal lands may be closed. The South Dakota Department of Tourism has published a fact sheet noting COVID-19 travel recommendations and restrictions on tribal lands in the state. The Department also maintains an online “Coronavirus (COVID-19) Information” website with helpful information for visitors.

South Dakota also maintains an online “COVID-19 in South Dakota” information portal with a number of additional resources.

What Should Employers do About COVID-19 Travel Recommendations?

Companies should review their current travel policy and relocation program to determine if they need to review them for specific COVID-19 travel recommendations. Relocation Management Companies (RMCs) with expertise and experience in travel policies for relocation programs are a valuable resource for policy reviews. Companies should schedule a travel policy review on a regular basis to learn about the best travel tools and latest features. As a result, they will be able to streamline and enhance travel reporting and compliance requirements.

Conclusion

Global Mobility Solutions’ team of corporate relocation experts has helped thousands of our clients benchmark their relocation program and incorporate the best travel tools into their business travel policy. Our team can help your company understand how to identify COVID-19 travel recommendations into your company’s travel policy for your traveling employees.

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.

New SafeRelo™ COVID-19 Knowledge Portal

GMS recently launched its new SafeRelo™ COVID-19 Knowledge Portal featuring a number of helpful resources including:

  • Curated selection of news and articles specific to managing relocation programs and issues relating to COVID-19
  • Comprehensive guide to national, international, and local online sources for current data
  • Program/Policy Evaluation (PPE) Tool for instant relocation policy reviews

Learn how to incorporate COVID-19 travel recommendations into your company’s travel policy and relocation program. Contact our experts online or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.

Request your complimentary relocation policy review

Categories
Corporate Relocation Domestic Relocation Global Relocation

Virtual Destination Services: Ideal Solutions for our Virtual World

young african american woman using laptop to work.
Smiling mixed race woman working in bright office, using laptop and headset, portrait.

Virtual destination services provide transferees with the tools and resources they need to navigate their relocation from a distance. Many GMS clients have transferees who benefit from using convenient formats and technology. In today’s virtual world many processes are changing to ensure health and safety during the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, transferees have access to new tools and resources to assure a successful relocation.

GMS spoke with Ann Hinch, International Destination Service Manager at GO Destination Services, who agreed to share her knowledge and expertise on this topic.

Three Convenient Formats for Virtual Destination Services

For services such as searching for schools, finding homes, and getting to know the new location, there are three convenient formats:

  1. Real-Time Community Video

Live video lets transferees review specific areas, discuss their interests, and share their preferences. The local destination contact provides direct communication on specific points and can answer questions that may arise.

  1. Webinar Presentation and Consultation

Transferees access a 1-on-1 presentation through a web-based platform. They also receive consultation for their destination needs.

  1. Custom Pre-Recorded Video

A personalized video is recorded and shared with transferees. They are then free to review the recording at a time that is convenient to their schedule.

Ann notes these virtual destination services are a terrific option for transferees and their family members. The services provide benefits such as:

  • Providing direct support when needed
  • Keeping assignments on track for success
  • Recruiting and retaining key employees
  • Assisting and supporting family members
  • Developing and growing relationships

Example #1: Home Finding

More people are buying homes sight-unseen due to several factors including the pandemic, the speed of business, and preference. Transferees using virtual destination services to find a home receive a number of helpful resources, including:

  • Initial consultation/needs assessment to allow for service personalization
  • Research conducted using transferee’s timeline, preferences, and budgetary requirements
  • Appointment-setting services to provide a virtual review
  • Virtual review of lease
  • Move-in inspection using virtual services
  • Personalized 1-on-1 consultation for questions and answers

Finding Homes

GO Destination Services has helped many clients find homes utilizing resources such as real-time video, webinar presentations, and consultations. One example is a recent transferee who was relocating from Canada to the U.S. West Coast for her job. Pre-pandemic, she would have flown to her destination city for a pre-move tour and to view available properties a month or more before the date of her move. However, that was complicated by the fact Canada is imposing a mandatory 14-day quarantine for anyone arriving from outside national borders, including residents returning from the U.S. – this would have created a delay for her local preparations toward her final move.

Video Conference

To solve this, one of GO’s area consultants in her destination city put together a virtual presentation that included an area tour and orientation, as well as video and information about potential homes she had selected ahead of time, and went over these with her during a real-time video conference. She was able to ask questions, discuss the properties with the consultant, and ultimately chose her new home – all without leaving the country. GO then assisted with the lease review and signing, inspection, and arranging landlord repairs before she arrived, lessening the stress of her move-in date.

Ann notes the recommended service length for home-finding is eight hours.

Example #2: School Search and Consultation

Families moving with children often have specific needs for their home, location, and schools. Transferees using virtual destination services to find a school participates in a virtual search, support, and coaching sessions on school choices. These services include:

  • Initial consultation/needs assessment for service personalization
  • 1-on-1 personal consultation
  • Appointment-setting services
  • Extensive and thorough question-and-answer sessions through phone and video

GO Destination Services recommends transferees participate in a webinar presentation and consultation for this service. Ann notes the recommended service length for school search is also eight hours.

Additional Virtual Destination Services

Ann notes that several destination services can be provided virtually. These include tours and orientation, departure services and support, and area consultations. All of these services provide transferees with 1-on-1 consultation and support to ensure their peace of mind.

Area Tours

Some of GO’s clients use virtual services for area tours for potential new hires at the interview stage. Candidates who are doing video interviews with clients and cannot travel to the destination city are connected to GO. Then they are afforded the opportunity to talk with a local area consultant. The consultant inquires about their preferences and other items of importance when considering a new job and relocation. Using that information, the consultant and GO prepare a web-based platform presentation highlighting local attractions, services, and even rentals – using such tools as video, mapping features to virtually “move around” the city, and, of course, opportunity for question-and-answer time.

Settling-In Services

Other virtual services include assistance with settling-in steps. When the Social Security Administration first closed offices in March because of the pandemic, it was not allowing applications for new Social Security cards for international work visa holders. Later, some locations began adding the ability to schedule in-person appointments even with offices still closed. Many offices will not allow area consultants to accompany the transferee inside for appointments; a number of those even require the transferee to call and schedule their own appointment. In these instances, the consultant offers instructions and support to the transferee through the process, including being on standby by phone or video during the application appointment.

What Should Employers Do About Virtual Destination Services?

Employers should leverage virtual destination services. This will provide transferees with easy to use resource that also promote health and safety in our virtual world. A Relocation Management Company (RMC) with knowledge and experience will help employers understand how to how to access a wide range of tools and resources to meet their relocation program’s needs. As a result, transferees and their family members will have peace of mind. Their relocation process will also be smooth and successful.

Conclusion

GMS’ team of global relocation experts has helped thousands of our clients understand how to identify if transferees can benefit from virtual destination services. Our team can help your company understand how to identify specific points of concern and issues. As a result, this will help your company provide appropriate virtual resources and solutions. We also have a wide range of North America and Global Destination Spotlights and MyRelocation® Video Destination Spotlights to help new hires and transferees learn about their new location.

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.

New SafeRelo™ COVID-19 Knowledge Portal

GMS recently launched its new SafeRelo™ COVID-19 Knowledge Portal featuring a number of helpful resources including:

  • Curated selection of news and articles specific to managing relocation programs and issues relating to COVID-19
  • Comprehensive guide to national, international, and local online sources for current data
  • Program/Policy Evaluation (PPE) Tool for instant relocation policy reviews

Contact our experts online to learn more about virtual destination services, or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.

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Corporate Relocation

Virtual Staging: Increasing Your Home’s Appeal to Buyers

Many home sellers with vacant properties can increase their home’s appeal to buyers through virtual staging. Virtually staging a property is a cost effective option that provides sellers with attractive listing photos. These photos can be used in brochures, online listings, and other home marketing materials. As a result, buyers are more likely to show stronger interest in the home. Also, the photos will attract a much larger buyer audience.

What is Virtual Staging?

GMS spoke with Jay Bell and Krisztina Bell, Founders and Marketing Directors of Virtually Staging Properties (VSP). Jay and Krisztina agreed to share their industry knowledge on virtual staging and other aspects of staging properties to increase their appeal to buyers.

The Virtual Staging Process

According to Jay and Krisztina, virtual staging done by VSP starts with actual photographs that sellers provide. The process includes:

  1. Seller provides actual photographs to VSP
  2. VSP Professionals review the property details provided and develop a staging plan
  3. Current furnishings and décor are utilized to provide superior results and unmatched realism
  4. Photos are transformed into warm, inviting and attractive images that are transmitted to the client for use in marketing the property

The process results in significantly more attractive images that appeal to buyers. High quality and visually appealing photos show buyers what the home will look like with beautiful furnishing and professional staging. Buyers are more inclined to purchase when they see dazzling and engaging photos.

What are the Benefits of Virtual Staging?

Jay and Krisztina note a continuing trend toward a “virtual world” where the percentage of buyers who bid on homes without even seeing them keeps increasing. Home sellers want these buyers to see their property as attractive. In a virtual world, virtual staging has risen in importance to sellers. Benefits of this service include:

  • Customized approach fits every client’s needs
  • Home’s unique characteristics are highlighted
  • Cost effective solution appeals to budget-conscious clients
  • Works in any space: main living areas, flex rooms, outdoor areas
  • Quick turnaround time of approximately 2 business days once client correctly submits their order

VSP offers cost effective solutions that cover a number of scenarios and packages:

  • Pro Virtual Staging exclusively for professional home stagers and interior designers
  • Custom Virtual Staging
  • Express Virtual Staging (using furnishing from the VSP Express Inventory)

Virtual Staging Costs Versus Traditional Home Staging Costs

One of the greatest benefits of virtual staging is how the cost compares to traditional home staging. On average, clients using virtual staging receive a range of photos they can use for a one-time cost. VSP has options ranging from $39 per photo for Express to $60 per photo for Custom, with the total cost for a typical set of 5 staged photos ranging from $195 to $300 respectively.

By comparison, costs for traditional home staging are much higher. They may include $300-$600 for the first consultation, and $500 to $600 for each staged room on a monthly basis. Combined with a staging contract three-month minimum, and costs per month could rise to $2,000 or more. For traditional home staging, a total cost at the end of a three-month minimum contract may be over $6,000.

Combining Virtual Staging with Traditional Home Staging Provides the Best of Both Options

Jay and Krisztina offer both virtual staging and traditional home staging to their clients. These services have become complimentary marketing tools with agents and sellers. Their clients appreciate that they can traditionally stage all the main areas in a vacant listing and virtually stage other flex rooms and outdoor spaces while staying within their marketing budget.

Three major benefits of this approach include:

  1. Offering a form of staging that is economical for smaller budgets
  2. Assisting clients who do not want to have furnishings brought into their home
  3. Offering another option for clients who request furnishings they may not keep in their inventory

What Does This Mean?

Home sellers who are looking for a cost effective solution that will create attractive and realistic photos should consider virtual staging. Companies such as VSP offer a variety of solutions that can be customized to fit each client’s specific marketing needs. As a result, sellers will receive photos that draw interest from buyers. Sellers will also be able to reach a wider audience of buyers with their virtual staging photos.

Conclusion

GMS’ team of domestic relocation experts has helped thousands of our clients understand how to provide solutions for their new hires and transferees who are looking to buy or sell a home. Our network of top agents market homes following industry best practices. They will have knowledge that helps home sellers understand the best and most cost effective solutions to marketing their homes such as using virtual staging to create visually appealing photos for marketing materials.

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.

New SafeRelo™ COVID-19 Knowledge Portal

GMS recently launched its new SafeRelo™ COVID-19 Knowledge Portal featuring a number of helpful resources including:

  • Curated selection of news and articles specific to managing relocation programs and issues relating to COVID-19
  • Comprehensive guide to national, international, and local online sources for current data
  • Program/Policy Evaluation (PPE) Tool for instant relocation policy reviews

Contact our experts online to learn more about home seller marketing solutions such as virtual staging, or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.

Categories
Corporate Relocation Corporate relocation tips

Corporate Relocation Factors: Top 7

GettyImages 500651492

Several corporate relocation factors may influence a decision to move to a new location. There are some standard reasons, such as being closer to customers and markets. With the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic, a few new factors are rising in importance. For example, locations outside of major cities appear to be gaining traction for a number of employees. Whereas there had been a trend for people to want to live in larger cities like New York City prior to the pandemic, now that trend appears to have reversed:

  • Westchester County, NY: July 2020 new home contracts double the usual number
  • Greenwich, CT: 72% increase in new home contracts

This trend is repeating in other US cities including Chicago, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. While it is accelerating with the pandemic, the trend was already coalescing. Millennials in particular were seen as shifting to the suburbs back in 2018. Reports detail that millennial buyers seek:

  • More space
  • Lots of bathrooms
  • Safe neighborhoods
  • Ample parking
  • Shorter commutes

U.S. Census data analysis shows the following:

 20102018
Americans moving to urban areas33%28%
Americans moving to suburban areas46%54%

What are the Top 7 Corporate Relocation Factors?

For most corporations, relocation decisions are made for several reasons. Thorough planning processes may yield both short term and long term objectives. Companies should review all of the important factors pertinent to their decision. Sometimes these major factors have been known to the company, especially if they need to grow through talent acquisition.

Top 7 Corporate Relocation Factors

  1. Companies seeing a trend of employees departing large cities will inevitably face declining workforces. Therefore a potential relocation to suburban areas might be in order. Many companies seek to be near a large pool of talented employees.
  1. The ability to be in a location that offers attractive housing, low commuting times, and favorable amenities is a positive factor for companies. Even though some work may be done remotely, there may be occasions to bring employees together in a safe manner. Suburban locations may still require longer commuting times. If a company relocates to the suburbs near employees, that is one more benefit to drawing nearby talent for job openings.

Homeownership and Quality of Life are Important Corporate Relocation Factors for Employees

  1. Homeownership is something that many employees seek. When markets offer record low interest rates, the case for buying versus renting is clear. Employers should encourage employees and transferees to buy instead of rent. There are many benefits that accrue to both the employee and the employer in the case of homeownership. Homeownership is often more easily attainable in suburban locations.
  1. Quality of life issues cover many areas and may be important to spouses and families. For example, the ability for a spouse to find a job in a new location might determine the success of a relocation. In our Case Study on Educational Institution Relocation Programs, GMS found that our client was losing new hires after year or so. Researching the issues, we helped the client understand that lack of employment opportunities for spouses was the major factor impacting the decision process. Therefore clients should include the considerations of families and spouses as a corporate relocation factor.

Moving from Older to Newer Facilities is a Corporate Relocation Factor

  1. Many companies located in older facilities face formidable market competition. Nimble market newcomers are often flush with the latest technologies. Upgrading facilities and equipment is a very important corporate relocation factor. Companies currently operating in outdated facilities may be at a competitive disadvantage. It is important for companies to consider their technology needs as they look at their corporate relocation factors.
  1. The ability to reach new clients and increase market exposure in a new location can help a company reach corporate objectives. Some corporate headquarters moves are made to gain easy access to capital and financial decision makers. Many large companies have facilities in several locations to gain unique advantages. This also allows them to leverage several pools of talent and local expertise.
  1. Cost and tax considerations may be a factor in some corporate relocations. Many companies take the cost of a location into account as they seek to assure continued success as they respond to rising costs and increasing competition.

Once a company planning to relocate reaches a decision, there are many points to consider. As it plans for a corporate relocation, a company should consider each point. As a result, this will ensure the company is fully aware of potential issues. They should have specific plans and ensure preparations are sufficient to ensure a smooth relocation experience. Often this also provides an excellent opportunity for positive Public Relations (PR) efforts that can highlight the corporate relocation’s benefits.

Top 5 Points a Company Looking at Corporate Relocation Factors Should Consider

  1. Assign a project team to plan the relocation and develop the relocation budget.
  2. Develop appropriate contingency plans and protocols to account for issues such as adverse weather, communications, and operations.
  3. Plan for backup systems to counteract any disruptions to customer service or employee communications during the relocation.
  4. Connectivity, security, adequacy of backups, and ability to restore technology systems should be reviewed to ensure full compliance with corporation needs, customer requirements, and business continuity plans.
  5. Ensure employees, customer, vendors, and others receive information about the move. Often this is a good opportunity for positive Public Relations (PR) efforts that can highlight the corporate relocation factors and the benefits of the move.

What Should a Company Planning to Relocate do?

A company planning to relocate should identify all of the corporate relocation factors leading to the decision. Also, the company should consider all of the Top 5 Points that may impact the relocation. Companies contemplating a corporate relocation should work with a qualified Relocation Management Company (RMC) that has knowledge and expertise in all of the planning and processes involved with a corporate relocation.

Corporate relocation experts provide valuable insight and can help a company’s corporate relocation process run smoothly with minimal disruptions. Engaging a Relocation Management Company early in the process will ensure a company has a knowledgeable partner that can guide them through all phases. RMCs help companies understand the important corporate relocation factors impacting their decision. They will also arrange all aspects of the company’s relocation to ensure a smooth process.

Conclusion

GMS’ team of corporate relocation experts has helped thousands of our clients develop plans and processes to ensure a successful and efficient corporate relocation. As a result, our team can help your company understand the corporate relocation factors that should be considered. We can also help your company understand how to proceed with a corporate relocation that will keep your company operating at full capacity before, during, and after the relocation.

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.

Contact our experts online to discuss corporate relocation factors facing your company, or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.

We're Here to Help! Request a Courtesy Consultation

Are you ready to talk to a Mobility Pro? Learn how GMS can optimize your mobility program, enhance your policies to meet today’s unique challenges, receive an in-depth industry benchmark, or simply ask us a question. Your Mobility Pro will be in touch within 1 business day for a no-pressure, courtesy consultation.

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Corporate Relocation Domestic Relocation Global Relocation Global Relocation Challenges Relocation Best Practices Relocation Management Relocation Policy Review Relocation Programs Talent Mobility

2020-21 Corporate Relocation Budget: Start Planning Now

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Shot of an attractive young businesswoman going through paperwork while sitting with her laptop

It is not too early to start thinking about your company’s 2020-21 corporate relocation budget. Many companies review budgets on a regular schedule. However, 2020 has been anything but ordinary. Every nation in the world has been dealing with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. From border restrictions to stay-at-home orders, the vast majority of companies have been facing multiple disruptions.

As a result, these disruptions are bound to have some type of impact on corporate budgets. Companies will find it difficult to determine the “new normal” in their business and industry.

Issues That May Lead to 2020-21 Corporate Relocation Budget Increases

Business Growth

Some companies have seen increasing demand for their products and services. For example, Amazon’s recent second-quarter report earnings call indicates tremendous growth for the company:

  • Earnings per Share: $10.30 (average analyst’s estimate: $1.46)
  • Revenue: $88.9 billion (average analyst’s estimate: $81.56 billion)
  • Sales: up 40% year over year in the quarter
  • Drivers: online retail, cloud services

Of special note is Amazon’s online grocery and delivery services, with significant progress in this area.

New Corporate Expansions

Other companies are planning significant expansions. Nikola Motor Company announced it will break ground on a manufacturing plant in Coolidge, Arizona. The plant should create thousands of jobs within Pinal County. Nikola expects to produce up to 35,000 hydrogen electric and electric semi-trucks.

Not to be outdone, Tesla recently announced it will build its next factory in Austin, Texas. Known as a Terafactory, the next Tesla Gigafactory will make the Tesla Cybertruck electric pickup truck and the Model Y. Additionally, Tesla’s headquarters location may also soon relocate to Austin.

Issues That May Lead to 2020-21 Corporate Relocation Budget Changes

Immigration Limitations

Beyond business growth and new corporate expansions, other issues may lead to budget changes. Immigration limits may reduce a company’s ability to hire foreign nationals to work in the United States. However, alternatives may still allow companies to hire qualified staff. These alternatives require specific conditions, with possible increases in costs in some areas such as travel and facilities.

Need for Highly Qualified Staff

Other issues could include staffing requirements. Some industries such as healthcare have seen a dramatic rise in the need for corporate housing solutions. This is due in part to a dramatic increase in a truly mobile workforce to deal with effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

How Should a Company Approach Reviewing its 2020-21 Corporate Relocation Budget?

Every company looking to review its 2020-21 corporate relocation budget should consider the following 5 specific points:

1. Relocation Policy Review

It is imperative that companies undertake a review of their relocation policy. Best practice is to review this policy every 12 to 18 months. With changes impacting nearly every component of a company’s 2020-21 corporate relocation budget, a policy review will help define areas that should be examined for compliance, utilization, and cost savings.

Do you know if your company’s business continuity plan includes points related to its relocation program? A relocation policy review will highlight areas that should be considered, such as employees on temporary assignment who may need to be quickly reassigned to a different location.

2. Historical Data Review

A thorough review of expenses will provide a good indicator of areas in need of attention. That being said, it is now critically important to also factor in multiple forces that may impact the future budget, including:

  • Immigration issues
  • Travel restrictions
  • Costs to comply with COVID-19 sanitation guidelines
  • Virtual talent acquisition
  • Virtual office requirements
  • Tax compliance issues

A number of points specific to each company’s needs can be considered in light of new business operating guidelines.

3. Significant Cost Generators

Many costs in relocation budgets are due to significant cost generators. Often these costs are driven by specific activities such as moving an employee to a new destination, or reimbursing temporary housing costs during a short term assignment. A thorough review should include examining these activities in detail as they impact the relocation budget:

  • Home Sales
  • Home Purchases
  • Temporary Housing Costs
  • Tax Obligations
  • Household Goods Moves

Be sure to compare and account for cost differences between global relocations and domestic relocations.

4. Accounting Accruals

Companies often account for business expenses that occur in one period by setting aside amounts known as accruals. Future expenses are then allocated toward the accrual amount. Reviewing your 2020-21 corporate relocation budget, consider whether some expenses might be better accounted for through accruals.

A good practice is to review the prior year’s accruals to determine if similar amounts should be in the budget through accrual accounting methods. This will also help ensure a smoother expense tracking and recording process. It may also assist the company with cash management requirements.

5. 2020-21 Corporate Relocation Budget Strategic Initiatives

Consider the impact of any strategic initiatives that might result in additional employee relocations, new hires, or corporate expansions. Is the company planning to build a new manufacturing facility or open a sales office? Are there discussions of future partnerships with other firms? Are new talent management programs in development?

With the advent of COVID-19, today’s workforce is even more responsive to changing company requirements. Given the swift nature of how companies responded to the pandemic, be sure to plan for future contingencies, changes, and disruptions.

What Should Employers do for Their 2020-21 Corporate Relocation Budget?

Employers should work with a Relocation Management Company (RMC) that has knowledge and experience with relocation budgets and managing for contingencies. RMCs are ideal sources for industry best practices. RMCs also have valuable knowledge on global issues relating to immigration, travel, and how the relocation industry and service providers are changing to meet new requirements due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Conclusion

GMS’ team of global relocation experts has helped thousands of our clients understand how to develop and prepare robust relocation programs that follow industry best practices. Our team can help your company understand how to account for each of these 5 specific points during the review of its 2020-21 corporate relocation budget.

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.

Contact our experts online to request a relocation policy review as part of your 2020-21 corporate relocation budget review process, or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.

We're Here to Help! Request a Courtesy Consultation

Are you ready to talk to a Mobility Pro? Learn how GMS can optimize your mobility program, enhance your policies to meet today’s unique challenges, receive an in-depth industry benchmark, or simply ask us a question. Your Mobility Pro will be in touch within 1 business day for a no-pressure, courtesy consultation.

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Business Services Choosing a Relocation Company Corporate Relocation Relocation Best Practices Relocation Challenges United States Economy

Post-Pandemic Business Planning: The Importance of Pre-Decision Services

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What will your employer’s post-pandemic business planning require? The United States has seen two months of unexpected employment increases, far beyond expectations. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment situation over the past two months reflects:

May 2020 Employment Situation

Nonfarm Payroll Employment Increasing by 2.5 million

Unemployment Rate declining to 13.3%

June 2020 Employment Situation

Nonfarm Payroll Employment Increasing by 4.8 million

Unemployment Rate declining to 11.1%

A Returning Workforce Requires Thoughtful Post-Pandemic Business Planning

Many employers are currently making plans for their returning workforce. They may need to develop new workspace configurations in order to limit COVID-19 issues. They may also need to hire new employees, develop a robust talent acquisition program, or arrange for short term domestic assignments.

Post-pandemic business planning must take into account a variety of issues and factors that many employers have not ever thought of, let alone have expertise in. Operating a business in the aftermath of COVID-19 requires significant measures of research, analysis, and thoughtful approaches to solutions.

Pre-Decision Services Help Employers Understand the Issues of Importance

Employers focusing on talent acquisition as part of their post-pandemic business planning should work with a Relocation Management Company with knowledge and experience in pre-decision services. As the original pioneer of the benefits of pre-decision services, Global Mobility Solutions (GMS) can help employers understand the issues of importance to new hires and transferees. GMS offers a wide range of pre-decision services including candidate assessments that help clients assess the circumstances of prospects who are likely to succeed.

Candidate Assessments Provide Valuable Information for Post-Pandemic Business Planning

Candidate assessments provide valuable information for employers as to the expectations of new hires and transferees. New workspace configurations and requirements should be clearly communicated during the pre-decision phase. Questions and feedback from candidates and transferees will provide a valuable source of input and guidance for an employer’s post-pandemic business planning with respect to COVID-19 planning and hazard reduction efforts. With respect to post-pandemic business planning, pre-decision services provide several benefits for clients by:

  1. Clearly identifying a candidate’s issues, concerns, and questions
  2. Completely eliminating any risk of non-acceptance
  3. Minimizing policy exceptions
  4. Increasing the accuracy of budgets
  5. Providing cost savings for the client
  6. Increasing job acceptance ratios
  7. Streamlining the candidate’s orientation to the new location

How Can GMS Help Your Company’s Post-Pandemic Business Planning?

GMS has the knowledge and experience to help your company understand how to identify issues and learn about useful resources. GMS’s team of domestic relocation experts can help your company learn how to use information gathered during pre-decision services to enhance post-pandemic business planning.

As a result, we can help your company develop robust plans during its post-pandemic phase of operations. This will help maintain your competitive position in the marketplace for highly skilled and qualified talent.

What Should Employers do?

Employers looking to enhance their post-pandemic business planning should work with an experienced and knowledgeable Relocation Management Company (RMC). RMCs are ideal sources for information on corporate relocations, workspace setups, pre-decision services, and many issues specific to each employer’s needs surrounding new hires, transferees, and talent acquisition.

Conclusion

GMS’ team of corporate relocation experts has helped many of our clients determine how to identify specific needs of new hires and transferees through pre-decision services. Our team can help your company determine how to leverage information gathered from new hires and transferees. As a result, this will help your company enhance its business planning process.

GMS was the first relocation company to register as a “.com.” The company also created the first online interactive tools and calculators. This leadership 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.

Learn best practices from Global Mobility Solutions. Our relocation industry and technology experts are dedicated to keeping you informed and connected. Contact our experts online to learn more about how your company can leverage pre-decision services to enhance its post-pandemic business planning, or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.

We're Here to Help! Request a Courtesy Consultation

Are you ready to talk to a Mobility Pro? Learn how GMS can optimize your mobility program, enhance your policies to meet today’s unique challenges, receive an in-depth industry benchmark, or simply ask us a question. Your Mobility Pro will be in touch within 1 business day for a no-pressure, courtesy consultation.

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Corporate Relocation Corporate relocation tips Domestic Relocation Domestic Relocation Challenges Domestic Relocation Tips Domestic Relocation Trends United States Economy

New Workspace Configurations Reinforce Employee Safety

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The GMS team is working to identify new workspace configurations that will reinforce employee safety at all of its facilities. The COVID-19 pandemic requires a robust response from employers to examine all aspects of workspaces, from entry to exit. Many organizations have issued a variety of helpful guidelines. The key to their effectiveness is thoughtful and rigorous implementation.

General Guidelines for New Workspace Configurations

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and other organizations provide several recommendations for employers looking to create new workspace configurations to prepare for COVID-19. OSHA maintains an online COVID-19 resource center with many highlights and guidelines. These guidelines include, but are not limited to:

  1. Implementing appropriate policies for:
  2. Social distance requirements
  3. Protective equipment including masks
  4. Checking employee temperatures
  5. Testing/Isolation/Contact tracing
  6. Sanitation
  7. Use and disinfection of common areas
  8. Business travel
  9. Monitoring workforces for symptoms
  10. Implementing policies for workforce contact tracing

Phasing in New Workspace Configurations

Following a phased approach lets employers and employees test new workspace configurations and determine whether they must address additional points. Employee feedback can help identify areas that might be of concern when larger numbers of employees return.

Another benefit of a phased approach is that if there are areas of concern, the likelihood of a greater issue can be avoided. The CDC encourages employers to conduct a thorough hazard assessment of their workspaces to identify any potential issues related to COVID-19. It also recommends using appropriate combinations of controls from the National Institute for Occupational Safety (NIOSH)’s hierarchy of controls to limit the spread of the virus. The hierarchy of controls includes aspects relating to:

  • Engineering controls
  • Workplace administrative policies
  • Personal protective equipment (PPE)

The hierarchy of controls range from least effective (protect the worker with PPE) to most effective (physically remove the hazard).

Important Reminder from the CDC for New Workspace Configurations

The CDC recommends that employers remind both employees and customers that the CDC recommends wearing cloth face coverings in public settings. However, face coverings do not replace the need to practice social distancing.

How can GMS Help Your Company?

GMS’s team of relocation experts has worked with many clients on all aspects of corporate relocations. Reconfiguring workspaces to reinforce employee safety is similar to arranging a corporate move. Points to consider range from new workspace configurations to identifying specific needs through Pre-Decision Services for new hires and transferees.

GMS has the knowledge and experience to help your company understand how to identify issues and learn about useful resources. As a result, we can help your team create an appropriate solution to limit hazards relating to COVID-19 in your new workspace configurations.

What Should Employers do?

Employers looking to create new workspace configurations should work with an experienced and knowledgeable Relocation Management Company (RMC). RMCs are ideal sources for information on corporate relocations, workspace setups, and a variety of other issues specific to each employer’s needs.

Conclusion

GMS’ team of corporate relocation experts has helped many of our clients determine how to identify specific needs with respect to corporate locations and new workspace configurations. Our team can help your company determine how leverage guidelines and resources to help limit issues relating to COVID-19.

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.

Contact our experts online to discuss how GMS can help your company determine how to set up new workspace configurations, or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.

We're Here to Help! Request a Courtesy Consultation

Are you ready to talk to a Mobility Pro? Learn how GMS can optimize your mobility program, enhance your policies to meet today’s unique challenges, receive an in-depth industry benchmark, or simply ask us a question. Your Mobility Pro will be in touch within 1 business day for a no-pressure, courtesy consultation.

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Corporate Relocation Corporate relocation tips Talent Mobility

Return Safely to Workplaces: Resources Provide Guidance for Employers

Reduce the spread of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in the office. Ways to prevent the transmission of disease can be done by wearing a surgical mask.

One of many employer challenges with respect to the COVID-19 pandemic is finding resources to help them determine how employees can return safely to workplaces. Understanding how the disease is transmitted is daunting, as scientific inquiries may show differing results or may change over time. As a result, concrete knowledge on surface transmission is hard to come by. For example, on May 20, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) published an update to their website that notes the virus does not spread easily from contaminated surfaces or objects. Prior to May 20, the CDC said it may be possible to spread the virus through contaminated surfaces.

What are the Agencies that Oversee Safety in the Workplace?

Employers are aware of several requirements to ensure safety in the workplace and on the job. In the United States there are several agencies that oversee a variety of workplace and job-specific laws and regulations. A few of these agencies that may provide guidance for employees to return safely to workplaces include:

CDC

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) is a federal agency that conducts research and develops recommendations to prevent injuries and illnesses that may arise from work. The CDC is the parent organization that oversees NIOSH.

U.S. Department of Labor

Three U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) agencies are responsible for administering and enforcing laws in place to protect worker’s health and safety:

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is a federal agency that ensures safe and healthful working conditions through administration and enforcement of the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Act of 1970.

Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) is responsible for overseeing administration and enforcement of the Federal Mine Safety and Health Act of 1977.

Wage and Hour Division (WHD) administers and enforces laws related to the Fair Labor Standards Act.

States

State Plans are OSHA-approved and apply to a specific U.S. state or territory. These programs focus on workplace safety and health. There are 22 State Plans that cover both the private sector and government workers. There are also 6 State Plans that cover only government workers.

For example, the state of Arizona operates a State Plan that covers most private sectors workers and all government workers through the Arizona Division of Occupational Safety and Health (ADOSH). The Industrial Commission of Arizona is the parent organization that oversees ADOSH.

What Does Return Safely to Workplaces Mean for Employers?

Returning employees to workplaces may have broad implications for employers depending on their specific situation. Some employers may need to reconfigure workplaces, while others may need to supply protective equipment. The research surrounding COVID-19 continues to provide new information, but some basic information is now somewhat established. As a result, a few organizations are taking what is known about the disease and are publishing guidelines. These guidelines serve as a resource for employers as they endeavor to help employees return safely to workplaces.

Resources to Help Employees Return Safely to Workplaces

CDC, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and The White House have jointly created a resource for the nation, “coronavirus.gov.” This online portal includes information and links to some of the latest information on topics related to COVID-19.

NIOSH has published several topics related to workplace safety and COVID-19, including information sheets, industry-specific resources, and factsheets.

DOL Resources

DOL has created a reference page of coronavirus resources that cover many topics administrated by its several agencies including how to return safely to workplaces. These topics cover issues relating to:

  • Workplace Safety
  • Wages, Hours, and Leave
  • Unemployment Insurance Flexibilities
  • Support for Dislocated Workers and States (workers laid off as a result of COVID-19)
  • Job Corps Students
  • Injured Federal Workers
  • Federal Contractors
  • Foreign Labor Certification
  • Flexibilities for Mine Operators
  • Supporting Workforce Needs in the Agricultural Sector
  • News and General Resources

OSHA has published guidance on preparing workplaces to address COVID-19 issues. OSHA has also created a website designed specifically to provide timely information for workers and employers about the pandemic and its effects on workplaces. Various employment issues, and how to return safely to workplaces.

MHSA has published an information sheet online to address questions surrounding mine operators, workers, and COVID-19.

WHD has issued several Fact Sheets, Questions/Answers, Posters, and other resources to help workers and employers understand how they will benefit from the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA). FFCRA also includes:

  • Emergency Paid Sick Leave Act
  • Emergency Family and Medical Leave Expansion Act

Many U.S. states have also issued guidelines under their State Plans.

Human Resource Service Companies and Organizations Promote Initiatives to Return Safely to Workplaces

Several leading human resources services companies have created a “Safely Back to Work” initiative. This alliance will let the companies collaborate on initiatives. As a result, this will help employers as they work with employees to return safely to workplaces. Randstad N.V. published an open letter inviting other organizations to join this alliance. The alliance has published a white paper, “Safely back to work in the new normal” that presents a disciplined approach to work during the COVID-19 pandemic. The white paper includes a process to develop protocols, controls, and preventive measures across countries and industries.

While a COVID vaccine is in development, there are currently vaccines for other diseases that impact the workplace, such as influenza. HelpAdvisor.com has published a flu vaccine resource guide, and MedicareAdvantage.com provides general seasonal health information for seniors. Information about influenza and other communicable diseases should be shared with employees.

What Should Employers do?

Employers should consider a thorough approach to working with employees to return safely to workplaces. They should research available resources to identify what will work best for their specific situation. Employers should work with a Relocation Management Company (RMC) that has experience with corporate relocations and individual employee moves. RMCs with knowledge and experience can help employers understand how to identify valuable resources and specific workplace issues they should address as they develop appropriate plans.

Conclusion

Global Mobility Solutions’ team of corporate relocation experts has helped thousands of our clients understand how to arrange for group moves of offices, employees, and equipment. Our team can help your company understand how identify and address all of the aspects involved in helping employees return safely to workplaces.

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.

Learn best practices from Global Mobility Solutions. GMS relocation industry and technology experts are dedicated to keeping you informed and connected. Contact our experts online to discuss your company’s interest in learning how to help employees return safely to workplaces, or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.

We're Here to Help! Request a Courtesy Consultation

Are you ready to talk to a Mobility Pro? Learn how GMS can optimize your mobility program, enhance your policies to meet today’s unique challenges, receive an in-depth industry benchmark, or simply ask us a question. Your Mobility Pro will be in touch within 1 business day for a no-pressure, courtesy consultation.

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