How Spousal Support and Family Services Affect Relocation Decision-Making

The “spousal assistance” benefits have evolved from a small aid to a powerful support system. Companies now understand the importance of the well-being of both employees and their families in a successful relocation. This once-overlooked perk has become a valuable tool for personal and professional development. 

Employee and family assistance has become a must-have component in corporate relocation services by providing support that boosts confidence, helps overcome challenges, and reduces stress about the move. It is no longer an afterthought but a crucial component that can make a significant difference in the success of a move.

In the past, companies have seen corporate moves as simply moving an employee from one place to another as efficiently and inexpensively as possible. The concept of providing job search help for spouses, now known as “spouse assistance,” became popular in the 1980s. However, this support was usually only given to those spouses or partners who specifically requested it or even insisted on it.

In recent years, significant discussion has concerned the employee experience in the industry. However, policies have mostly stayed the same, and financial resources must be expanded.

In the current competitive job market, with a renewed emphasis on health and environmental responsibility following the pandemic, employers are reconsidering the concept of employee relocation. Instead of viewing it as a work-related change, companies recognize that moving affects every aspect of an individual’s personal and professional life. It is essential to acknowledge that employees are people first and foremost, and their well-being should be prioritized. This shift in perspective leads to a reassessment of how the relocation sector can better assist employees and their families during the moving process.

“spouse assistance” has transformed into “employee and family assistance,” enabling companies to support the overall well-being of the entire household proactively. This approach ultimately helps employees thrive in their new roles.

This shift in perspective recognizes the importance of considering the holistic needs of employees and their families when it comes to relocation. By supporting the employee and their spouse and children, companies can create a smoother transition and help ensure the employee’s overall well-being and productivity in their new location.

Employee and family assistance programs may include services such as helping spouses find employment in the new location, providing resources for children to adjust to a new school, offering counseling services for the entire family to cope with the stress of moving, and even assistance with finding housing and settling into the new community.

By taking a more comprehensive approach to relocation support, companies can demonstrate their commitment to the well-being of their employees and their families. This helps with employee retention and satisfaction and contributes to a positive company culture that values its workforce’s personal lives and happiness. Ultimately, investing in the well-being of employees and their families during a relocation can lead to tremendous success and productivity in the long run.