Tag: relocation programs

Advantages of Creating Competition Between Suppliers for Relocation Services

Post author By MIchael Hughes
Post date September 21, 2021

two business people talking — Two serious caucasian men in suits discussing or planning business issues in the office. Colleagues or client and consultant are sitting at the table next to each other and talking.

GMS Always Fields Multiple Bids from Suppliers on Key Services

No one wants to pay more than they need to, this is especially true when it comes to the outsourcing of employee relocation services to a Relocation Management Company (RMC). Cost is generally the #1 driver of any procurement process, and it is wise to ensure you’re getting the most for your money before you sign on the dotted line. While saving money is a no-brainer, have you considered what steps your RMC is taking to ensure they deliver on cost savings for your relocation program?

Many relocation companies have their own supplier base. These suppliers may consist of critical (and expensive) services, such as household goods transportation companies and temporary housing agencies. It is important to understand how your relocation company is leveraging these suppliers to reduce the impact of these services.

GMS Process to Keep Relocation Costs Down

Global Mobility Solutions, like most relocation companies, has its own, trusted network of suppliers. However, our network model is different due to our Multiple-Bid Process on key services. This process creates ongoing competition between our suppliers which ultimately results in lower prices and major relocation cost savings for our clients’ overall mobility spend.

So how does it work? GMS analyzes each relocating employee’s unique needs, develops a service delivery plan, and then reaches out to at least two different suppliers for bids on key services. The suppliers’ estimates are audited for accuracy and submitted to you for final selection and approval based on the criteria most important to your organization. It should be noted that these are not just random or first-time suppliers who place bids with GMS. Each supplier is trusted and vetted by our network management team to ensure great service and competitive pricing. The process also allows us to develop creative service strategies to address every unique relocation need from each transferee.

What makes GMS different is our independence and transparency in our supplier selection process. As we are not affiliated with any of our suppliers (van lines, corporate housing, real estate, destination services, immigration, or otherwise) we can subjectively vet our supplier base, ensuring the best possible quality for the best possible price across all of our key services. Some RMCs own or are owned by the suppliers they utilize which prevents the ability for true competition amongst the sub-suppliers servicing your account.

Additionally, GMS benchmarks and reviews our supplier pricing and negotiated rates on a quarterly to annual basis to ensure competitiveness by service in your specific relocating markets. These two features provide GMS clients with an umbrella of cost savings coverage while enhancing the quality of each relocation.

Let GMS Provide Relocation Services for Your Company

Operating a workforce relocation program can be expensive, but in many cases, it’s the best way to ensure your organization remains competitive in the acquisitions of talent to fuel your ongoing success. To have a better shot at cutting down relocation costs during the process, it is important to ensure your RMC utilizes a competitive bid process between suppliers on key services, such as household goods transportation, corporate housing, and more. Competition is always good for the consumer, driving down prices and increasing quality. GMS ensures the best price possible 100% of the time. For more information on corporate relocation services and program management from GMS, reach out today to schedule a call with one of our qualified team members.

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.

Tags relocation, relocation best practices, Relocation Costs, relocation programs

Corporate Relocation Domestic Relocation Challenges Global Relocation Relocation Challenges

2021 Ushers in Fully Virtual Relocation from Start to Finish

Post author By MIchael Hughes
Post date May 4, 2021

senior woman reading from laptop — Woman watching business training or online webinar on laptop computer remote working

Virtual solutions in relocation management were well on their way to becoming the preferred choice long before the COVID-19 pandemic made them a requirement to do business. Supporting the working world’s “anytime, anywhere” focus, the relocation industry has been creating tools and resources to bring solutions to clients that are easy to use and do not require any physical contact. 2021 will see virtual solutions continue to grow in both popularity and functionality due to their convenience, speed, flexibility, and accuracy.

Virtual Relocation services span the relocation spectrum, including the following:

PRE-DECISION SERVICES

A valuable tool, pre-decision allows for a relocation management company to work with your new hires or transferees before an offer is extended or the decision to relocate is made. All of the following services can be provided through online solutions, reports, and electronic communications:

Candidate Assessment – Assess candidate expectation, skills, personal qualities, family circumstance, and financial preparedness
Cost of Living analysis – Cost of living comparison of origin and destination cities to help determine an acceptable or competitive salary range
Market analysis – Determine the likely home sale timeline and identify potential home sale challenges such as negative equity
School Reports – Public and Private School reports provided to the relocating employee to aid community selection
Moving Cost Estimates – Cost estimates on household goods transport to help budget for relocation costs
Community Search and Tours – Virtual Neighborhood Walks let buyers explore new neighborhoods and communities, and help them see nearby local features such as parks, schools, and shopping centers

VIRTUAL VISA AND IMMIGRATION SERVICES

In today’s new normal, the virtual experience extends to the visa application and immigration process:

A knowledge base of helpful information and resources
Virtual visa and legal consultation
Online application and form filing
Electronic fee payment
Online tools to track and manage case status and processing times

HOME SELLER VIRTUAL EXPERIENCE

The global pandemic forced home sellers, agents, and relocation companies to rethink the real estate process from beginning to end. Including the following.

Consultation, Digital Marketing

Virtual consultations using popular meeting platforms such as Zoom or Google Hangouts
Document signatures captured electronically using Dotloop real estate transaction management solution or other e-signature programs
Virtual walk-through and preparation for the home
Virtual staging using seller-provided photos combined with current furnishings and décor
Virtual experience “Open House” event with advertising and promotion
Virtual private showings

Offer, Contract, Deposit

Electronic offer submittal (once seller receives an acceptable offer, that specific buyer can see the property in person within 24 hours; following the viewing, the seller will execute the offer)
Contract to purchase the home is executed electronically
DepositLink or other financial service is used to electronically transfer the deposit

Inspections, Appraisal, Financing, Closing

Inspections are ordered and conducted (if not waived)
Purchase and Sale agreement is executed
Appraisal is completed
The buyer obtains financing commitment if applicable
Final in-person walk-through (if not waived)
Closing

HOME BUYER VIRTUAL EXPERIENCE

Like the home sale process, home purchases have traditionally been a very personal, in-person process. 2020 brought about rapid change as the real estate experience quickly adapted to provide a safe, virtual experience for prospective home buyers.

Consultation, Online Views

Virtual consultations using popular meeting platforms such as Zoom or Google Hangouts
Document signatures captured electronically using Dotloop real estate transaction management solution or other e-signature programs
Online searching for homes
Virtual experience tours of homes, either 3D virtual tour online, or a live interactive virtual tour (open house or private showing)
Live virtual buyer events
Video mail (v-mail) provide video directly to interested buyers

Offer, Contract, Deposit

Electronic offer submittal (once seller receives an acceptable offer, that specific buyer can see the property in person within 24 hours; following the viewing, the seller will execute the offer)
Contract to purchase the home is executed electronically
DepositLink or other financial service is used to electronically transfer the deposit

Inspections, Appraisal, Financing, Closing

Inspections are ordered and conducted (if not waived)
Appraisal is completed
The buyer obtains financing commitment if applicable
Final in-person walk-through (if not waived)
Closing

VIRTUAL HOUSEHOLD GOODS MOVES SERVICES

While the movement of personal property will always require a physical presence by moving crews, the household goods industry developed effective tools and processes to limit in-person interaction to protect both the transportation employee and the transferee’s family from unnecessary exposure:

Online, video, and virtual estimating surveys to document contents of homes
Online and electronic communications to arrange services and payments
Packing, moving, delivery, and setup services without requiring transferee to be present

VIRTUAL DESTINATION SERVICES

Virtual destination services are a great option for transferees and their family members. These include community 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 comfort and peace of mind with the destination.

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

For common services such as searching for schools, finding homes, and getting to know the new location, there are several new convenient formats that have risen in use:

Real-Time Video – Live video calls let 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.
Webinar Presentations – Transferees access a 1-on-1 presentation through popular web-based platforms.
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.

VIRTUAL LANGUAGE AND CULTURE TRAINING

A virtual trainer for language and culture allows candidates to access training anytime, anywhere. This access gives candidates the flexibility they need. Whether traveling or in a remote location, the virtual trainer lets candidates learn at their own pace.

Language Modules

Intuitive, straightforward interface
Self-paced lessons
Focus on conversation proficiency
Cultural insights and nuances that impact vocabulary and grammar
Mobile apps for quick brush-ups

Cultural Modules

One-on-one personal training via webcam
Coaches explain how to see cultural differences to promote synergy
Practical and actionable guidance to operate in business settings
Learning to leverage skill sets found in other cultures
Communicates values including mutual respect and understanding

VIRTUAL TUTORING FOR CHILDREN

Dedicated learning platforms deliver virtual instructor-led lessons in a fully professional, secure, and GDPR-compliant format. Features include:

Easy to use interface
Browser-based with no necessary downloads
Class reminders and notifications
Multiple-language support
Audio and video-based lessons
Online document sharing and lesson materials
Reporting for attendance, learning analytics, and more

The lesson content and methodology are adapted to the children’s needs. Books and materials are either virtual or delivered to the children through mail delivery services.

What's Trending in Workforce Mobility for 2021?

This article is an excerpt from our 2021 Workforce Mobility Forecast. Download a complete copy today, or watch a recording of our latest Thought Leadership Series webinar on the trends that are shaping the industry.

Click Here

GMS Is Here to Help

GMS is ready to help you with any relocation needs you may have. If you have questions or are ready to get started, please reach out to us online or call 1-800-617-1904 for US or 011-480-922-0700 for international. Our certified team is here to help.

Tags relocation best practices, relocation programs, virtual relocation

Choosing a Relocation Company Corporate Relocation Domestic Relocation Global Relocation Tips

Corporate Relocation Incentives Driving Economic Development

Post author By MIchael Hughes
Post date April 20, 2021

city skyline at sunset — Downtown Denver, Colorado, USA Drone Skyline Aerial Panorama.

In the past year, the global mobility industry has seen noticeable increases in state and local governments offering enticing relocation incentives to draw economic development and add to growing employment numbers. But how are these incentives helping companies recruit new talent to relocate? And how do transferees and companies take advantage of these incentives?

Working with a corporate relocation services company can help make sure that you are getting the most out of the available relocation incentives. There are various incentives for those looking to perform group moves or office moves from state to state. Understanding these plans and policies is the first step in taking advantage of them.

Here we have broken down some of the relocation incentives in 3 quickly growing states. All of these states are seeing an increase in population due to incentives and business-friendly environments, and these numbers should continue to grow as work from home precautions begin to end for in-office positioned employees.

Attracting Companies and Talent

Many states have heavily invested in development strategies that are solely focused on attracting companies within specific industries into relocating their operations to their state. Commonly targeted organizations reside in high revenue/high wage industries, such as technology, R&D, and manufacturing companies. State relocation incentives are often rich with benefits, making it difficult for companies to ignore. Let’s use Colorado, Arizona, and Texas as gleaming examples. Each of these states has focused on developing partnerships focused on attracting and relocating companies to their particular states and municipalities, in hopes of bringing in more revenue and tax dollars to the state.

Key Colorado relocation incentives:

Job Growth Incentive Tax Credits – A performance-based state income tax credit equal to 50% of the FICA paid by a business, based on the net new growth from jobs created
Strategic Fund Incentives – A cash payout based on wage levels of the net new jobs created
Location Neutral Employment – An incentive that combines Job Growth Incentive Tax Credits and a Strategic Fund Incentive
Training Grants – Reimbursement of job training designed to increase transferable skills to enhance long term employment opportunities
Industry Accelerated Grants – A collection of grants that promote growth and sustainability

Key Arizona relocation incentives:

Quality Job Credits – Up to $9,000 in tax credits over 3 years for each new qualifying job
Training Grants – Up to 75% reimbursement of job training per employee and up to $8,000 for each new employee in a rural area
Facility Tax Credits – 10% of capital investment, up to $20,000 per qualified job created in manufacturing or R&D
Research & Development – An income tax credit for R&D (24% for first $2.5M, plus 15% in excess of $2.5M)

Key Texas relocation incentives:

Enterprise Project – If project investment is equal to or greater than $5 million or more, then refund amount is up to $2,500 per job up to a maximum of 500 jobs created/retained
Double Jumbo Enterprise Project – If the project investment amount is equal to or greater than $150 million and less than $250 million, then the refund amount is $5,000 per job up to a maximum of 500 jobs created
Triple Jumbo Enterprise Project – If the project investment amount is equal to or greater than $250 million then the refund amount is $7,500 per job up to a minimum of 500 jobs created. The maximum refund available is $3.75 million

Weighing the Benefits

While most of these incentives are not lucrative enough to make a company want to move on the spot, they do serve as added bonuses to those companies that are actively looking to make a move within the next year or two. The next question becomes how do you know you’re making the best relocation decision for your company and employees? Working with a certified corporate relocation services company will help to ensure that state economic incentives and your relocation strategy provide your organization with the advantages it needs to thrive and grow. . But what has to be considered when drafting up relocation policies and operation decisions?

Establishing new operations or relocating existing ones is not an easy decision. Companies must weigh the cost/benefit of moving operations, in addition to the impact on employees. At GMS, we make every effort to support companies with the necessary analysis for informed decision-making. This may include salary and cost of living comparisons, housing evaluations and site studies, educational comparisons, pre-decision services, and more!

Why GMS Is the Answer

If you’re looking to take advantage of incentives for these states, or just collecting information in general for relocating employees, it is always a good idea to sign on with a proven and experienced relocation company. You’ll want to use a company that specializes in group moves and office moves.

Global Mobility Solutions (GMS) is here to help you with all of your relocation services needs. Our team of experts holds over 20 relocation certifications and can assist with any kind of corporate move, no matter the scale. We also won’t blindside you with hidden or non-disclosed fees. All of our pricing is upfront and honest. Not to mention, we will tailor your policies and procedures to make sure your employees are maximizing any available state incentives, along with ensuring all of their relocation needs are being met. Our team can help you move to or from not just Arizona, Colorado, or Texas, but globally as well.

Reach out to GMS today online if you’re ready to start getting info about working with a certified relocation services company. Or to speak to a team member directly, call 1-800-617-1904.

We're Here to Help! Request a Courtesy Consultation

Tags relocation best practices, relocation programs, relocation services

Relocation Policy Review Relocation Programs

Did you know? Relocation Program Outsourcing Provides Several Benefits—Help Your Company!

Post author By Sam Hoey | CRP, GMS
Post date January 19, 2021

three co-workers made up of two men and a woman dressed formally, average age of 29 years, are on the stairs of the company where they work with documents, charts, and laptops; all three wear masks to avoid getting the covid virus 19

If your company currently manages its relocation program in-house, you are missing out on several benefits that relocation program outsourcing provides. Your relocation program provides significant value in several areas. Effectively managed relocation programs help companies achieve corporate objectives and reach the highest levels of success in talent acquisition and retention!

More importantly, your new hires and transferees are looking for a number of benefits and services to support their relocation process. Relocation Management Companies (RMCs) have extensive knowledge and experience. As a result, RMCs help companies understand what is important to candidates and their family members going through a relocation—and RMCs have the solutions they want!

The Benefits that Relocation Program Outsourcing Provides

Relocation program outsourcing provides both direct and indirect benefits. When you work with a qualified and knowledgeable RMC, your company will save costs, gain expertise, and reduce administrative burdens.

1. Expertise

RMCs have extensive experience in the relocation industry and will provide policy recommendations that generate cost savings in several areas including:

1. Fees versus in-house operational costs
2. Home sale costs and the Buyer Value Option
3. Household goods shipments

Did you know? Local HR teams and employees do not have experience with relocation programs, home sales, household goods shipments, spouse and partner support, and other relocation services. This means new hires and transferees are at risk for relocation failure!

2. Cost Management

Robust expense tracking and management software such as GMS’ MyRelocation^® Technology effectively identifies and tracks relocation costs. As a result, companies can determine the true budgetary impact of relocation, thanks to relocation program outsourcing. Also, they can easily determine how their relocation program is performing to goals and key corporate performance indicators.

Did you know? The vast majority of companies that manage their relocation programs in-house (over 70%) are not aware of the true extent of the program’s internal operating costs!

3. Relocation Program Outsourcing Reduces Exceptions

Experts in the relocation industry are intimately familiar with exceptions and will know how best to handle issues that may arise. RMCs focus on minimizing expenses and reducing disruptions while improving transferees’ experiences.

Did you know? Beyond direct cost issues, policy exceptions may cause:

Compliance risks
Adverse impacts on your relocation policy
Increased taxes
Additional administrative time and effort
Increases to the true budgetary cost

4. Centralization

Relocation program outsourcing ensures a centralized approach to relocation program administration. Centralization offers a significant number of benefits and cost reduction opportunities. Also, transferees are assured of a consistent application of superior relocation services.

Did you know? In our Case Study on Decentralization, we found that decentralization of a relocation program leads to higher operating costs, inconsistent reporting, and varying polices across an organization. Don’t let this continue to be your company’s story!

5. Assignment Success

Talent acquisition program managers recognize strong and effective relocation policies are critically important to the success of new hires and transferees. RMCs have depth of experience and know how to find solutions for unique relocation needs.

Did you know? Companies that manage in-house relocation programs experience a high degree of assignment failure!

What Should Employers do About Relocation Program Outsourcing?

Employers should examine the benefits and cost reduction opportunities that relocation program outsourcing provides. By outsourcing their relocation program, employers can pursue corporate objectives and important initiatives while gaining all the benefits outsourcing provides.

Employers should work with a qualified Relocation Management Company that has significant knowledge and a wealth of experience in the relocation industry.

Conclusion

Our corporate relocation experts will help your company understand how to leverage relocation program outsourcing. Your company will gain the maximum benefits and services in the most cost-effective manner possible.

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 sets the industry pace as the pioneer in innovation and technology solutions with its proprietary MyRelocation^® technology platform.

Contact our experts online now to learn how your company can gain with relocation program outsourcing, or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.

We're Here to Help! Request a Courtesy Consultation

Tags Outsource Global Mobility Management, Outsourcing Relocation Programs, Relocation Policy Review, Relocation Program Outsourcing, relocation programs

Corporate Relocation Corporate relocation tips Domestic Relocation Domestic Relocation Tips Global Relocation Global Relocation Tips Relocation Best Practices Relocation Management Relocation Policy Review Relocation Programs

Expedited Bidding Benefits: How Your Company Can Gain Immediate Results

Post author By Nancy Kritzer | CRP
Post date November 23, 2020

Two male and two female Relocation Management Company representatives presenting their proposal by video to a male Human Resource Professional who hopes to gain expedited bidding benefits

If your company is seeking better results from your relocation program, expedited bidding benefits bring immediate savings. As many companies learn, outsourcing the management of their relocation program to a Relocation Management Company (RMC) provides several advantages. Doing so through a quick process helps the company achieve even greater results in the short term. Companies that use an expedited bidding process report significant savings in both time and costs.

GMS’ benchmark study of companies that leverage an expedited approach to bidding on the management of their relocation program show why this is a preferred process. Our team of global relocation experts has identified the top five expedited bidding benefits that companies can expect.

Top 5 Expedited Bidding Benefits

1. Cost Savings Right from the Start

Companies instituting an expedited approach create competition in the process. Relocation Management Companies pursuing their business will put forth their most competitive fee structures. Direct costs are likely to be the lowest in the quest to obtain the account. With these immediate savings from the expedited bidding process, companies are assured of cost effective solutions.

2. Complimentary Consulting

Some of the most valuable expedited bidding benefits related to mobility consulting. As part of the process, companies can request many of the following at no cost:

Policy development and revisions
Relocation program design
Current policy reviews

As part of this process, companies can learn much about an RMC’s abilities, including:

Knowledge of relocation processes
Level of experience on points important to the company
Consulting work quality and timeliness

3. Speedy Implementation Saves Time and Offers Quick Access to Expedited Bidding Benefits

Expedited bidding benefits relating to time savings can directly correlate to cost savings. The quicker a relocation program be implemented, the quicker the company achieves program savings and efficiencies. GMS’ data shows that on average, more than 90% of companies using expedited bidding complete their relocation program implementation in just 22 days. Given the amount of work that may be involved, including creating relocation APIs, policy documents, and communication, a shorter implementation timeframe lets the company quickly return its focus to other strategic objectives.

4. Process is a Better Fit for Buying Solutions

Companies that retain an RMC to manage its relocation program understand they are buying solutions that will help their employees. As a result, these solutions require a much different approach than the process they would use to purchase equipment parts or to source machinery. Ultimately, relocation management requires that the company ensures the right fit for the right reasons. The right fit ensures the company will maximize their expedited bidding benefits.

5. Frees up Administrative Burden of Formal Requests

Companies that fully understand their purchasing processes know the amount of administrative burdens and resources necessary to complete formal Requests for Information and/or Proposals. By foregoing these types of resource-intensive approaches that often create more problems for the company, employees can pursue value-added activities while RMCs carry the burden of responses.

What Should Companies do to Gain Expedited Bidding Benefits?

Companies should seek to gain expedited bidding benefits by utilizing an expedited process for outsourcing the management of their relocation program. Relocation Management Companies with extensive industry experience and knowledge will prove to be the best resources in this effort. Qualified RMCs will guide companies to successful results with a customized, right-fit program and greater expedited bidding benefits.

Conclusion

GMS’ team of corporate relocation experts has helped thousands of our clients with their relocation programs. Our team can help your company gain the maximum amount of expedited bidding benefits by leveraging our expertise to present the most cost-effective and efficient relocation management solutions.

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 your company’s interest in obtaining expedited bidding benefits, or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.

We're Here to Help! Request a Courtesy Consultation

Tags corporate mobility, corporate relocation, Domestic Relocation, Domestic Relocation Tips, Expedited Bidding, Expedited Bidding Benefits, expeditied bidding, global relocation, Global Relocation Tips, Relocation Benchmarking, relocation policies, Relocation Policy Benchmarking, Relocation Policy Review, relocation programs

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

Post author By Sam Hoey | CRP, GMS
Post date September 1, 2020

Young woman collecting important documents — 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

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

Post author By Sam Hoey | CRP, GMS
Post date August 4, 2020

Shot of a mature businessman having a brainstorming session against a glass screen in a modern office

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:

Clearly identifying a candidate’s issues, concerns, and questions
Completely eliminating any risk of non-acceptance
Minimizing policy exceptions
Increasing the accuracy of budgets
Providing cost savings for the client
Increasing job acceptance ratios
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

Global Mobility Global Relocation Global Relocation Tips Global Relocation Trends Relocation Best Practices Relocation Challenges Relocation Programs United States Economy Visas and International Travel

Successful Language Training: What Does it Look Like, and What Can it Provide?

Post author By Sam Hoey | CRP, GMS
Post date April 16, 2020

relocation coach helping moving employee — Male CEO talking during a business presentation in a board room. Copy space.

Successful language training often helps employees determine if they can easily accept a global assignment. Many transferees may have a commanding grasp of several languages. Language proficiency and other professional skills often prepare them well for work in a new location. However, their family members may not be as proficient in multiple languages. The prospect of relocating to a destination where language may become a barrier can be daunting.

Employers should inquire as to whether transferees, their spouses, and their family members have proficiency in the language that is most in use at their new location. If they do not have proficiency, employers should provide assistance with language training.

What Does Successful Language Training Look Like?

Language training programs may include several helpful elements. All of these elements work together to provide transferees and their family members with valuable communication skills. These programs provide professional resources that are proven to assist transferees and their family members successfully settle in to their new location.

GMS spoke with Inigo Lopez, CEO of BiCortex Business Language Services to learn more about how participants can get the most out of their language training programs. Inigo agreed to share his expert guidance on this topic.

Successful Language Training Should be Efficient

Inigo notes that for greatest efficiency, students should study in a private class. Also, the number of student in group classes should always be kept to a minimum. The best solutions are tailored to the student’s specific needs including:

Preferred location (home, office or a neutral location)
Level of education
Business industry
Student’s professional and personal objectives

Language training that uses multiple methods to teach students typically has the highest rate of success. These methods may include conversation, use of visual aids, grammar exercises, and self-study. Also, students report higher levels of satisfaction with the training program. As a result, they are also more highly motivated.

Successful Language Training by Expert Language Trainers

Inigo believes the best language training providers work with trainers with the following profile:

Significant number of years within the field of education
Native and multilingual teachers
Qualifications from renowned colleges and universities
Highly motivated specialists with excellent customer feedback

Language Training and Complementary Services

Beyond language training, good solutions offer a range of complementary services. Inigo believes language training and other services can work together to help students reach the highest level of success. For example, tutoring can extend beyond language to include academic support in schools, preparatory classes for examinations, diplomas, and entrance exams, or writing papers.

Additionally, training should incorporate a wide variety of formats. Live online classes, online module learning, and custom solutions all work together to help students learn at their own pace.

What are Students of Successful Language Training Saying?

Inigo provided comments from several students who have utilized language training solutions successfully. Their comments show the amount of value that language training can provide:

M. recently relocated from Colombia to the United States

“My goal is to learn the English language because now we live in the United States…the language training classes helped me a lot…my level is very low as a beginner. My advice to others who want to learn a new language would be that first you really need to want to learn and receive classes both on grammar and tenses, classes can be online as it is similar to face to face in my experience.

The best thing for me is to simply learn, I love to learn more things every day. English for me is a priority and is a goal of mine in 2020. My favorite resources were the internet based tools and videos.”

R. recently relocated from India to the United Kingdom

“My main goal is to be fluent in it, and be confident. So far it is good, my teacher helps very much, and I like her classes. My advice to others is try to use English every day, read books, when looking for a word you do not know yet, always use more than one dictionary.

The best thing about learning a new language is that I am able to develop my confidence level, improving my social interaction and encouraging connection between peers. For me, the best way to learn has always been watching movies and shows. A good way to learn and practice English is to talk with our friends.”

What Should Employers do About Language Training?

The most successful company relocation programs provide a wealth of support programs and services for transferees and their family members since they are often key to ensuring a successful relocation. GMS provides our clients with an extensive range of language training programs as well as other valuable business services so employee relocations are successful. Our high-touch service model fully extends to helping transferees and their family members with everything they need during their relocation process.

Conclusion

GMS’ team of corporate relocation experts has helped thousands of our clients develop successful language training programs to help their relocating employees and their family members settle in to their new location. Our team can help your company determine the best language training solution for your relocation program. As a result, this will help 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.

Contact our experts online to discuss successful language training solutions to help your transferees and their family members, or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.

Buy a Home Domestic Relocation Domestic Relocation Tips Home Purchase Relocation Management

What is a Home Relocation Appraisal?

Post author By Sam Hoey | CRP, GMS
Post date March 19, 2020

Real estate agent showing a young couple a home for sale. — Medium shot of a real estate agent showing and explaining property to a couple

Transferees participating in a home sale as part of their relocation package often submit to a Home Relocation Appraisal process. Since “Appraisal” is part of this term, transferees may think this will be an indicator of their home’s market value. However, this is not the case. A Relocation Appraisal is completely separate from a Home Mortgage Appraisal. From the purpose to the format, the differences are dramatic.

A review of the specific points of this report will clarify its purpose, intent, and use within a transferee’s moving process.

8 Specific Points of a Home Relocation Appraisal

1. What is the Intended Use?

The use of this report is to help facilitate the transferee’s move to another location. The results go to the client, not the transferee. Clients may review the information to help understand how long the home may be on the market before selling.

2. Who Conducts the Home Relocation Appraisal?

Trained and licensed real estate appraisal professionals who follow the ERC’s specific set of definitions and guidelines complete the Appraisal. The professional works for the client, and will use the Worldwide ERC^® Summary Appraisal Form (updated 2010) to complete the Appraisal.

3. What are Critical Considerations?

In this report, design and appeal of the house are critical considerations. Since the Appraisal has a short time frame that relates specifically to the transferee’s relocation, these two factors will have a major impact on the relocation process.

4. What will the Report Provide?

This type of Appraisal provides an estimate of the home’s anticipated sales price. There is no correlation to any other figure or value; the Appraisal looks solely at the anticipated sales price.

5. What is the Timeframe?

Home Relocation Appraisals have a short-term focus. The decision making timeframe only covers up to 120 days. This accounts for the planning, review, and implementation of the transferee’s relocation process.

6. When Should Marketing for the Home Begin?

Marketing for the house occurs after the date of this report. As a result, the marketing plan for the home has no bearing on this Appraisal.

7. How does Marketing the House Relate to a Home Relocation Appraisal?

The marketing time for this report is not to exceed 120 days. This timeframe only reflects the period covering the transferee’s relocation process.

8. How Does a Retrospective Analysis Relate to a Home Relocation Appraisal?

A retrospective analysis for a Home Relocation Appraisal is an overall review of factors that could impact the Appraisal’s results, such as any risks that could affect the sale price of the home. This information is used for forecasting purposes. This is important for clients so they can understand aspects of the report that may have future budgetary impacts.

What Should Employers Expect?

Employers should expect that transferees who participate in a this type of sale program for their house may not understand the purpose of this Appraisal. Employers should understand that they are the client for this report. As such, they will receive the Appraisal from the professional. Employers should understand and communicate with the transferee that this report is not a Home Mortgage Appraisal.

What Should Employers do?

Employers should communicate guidance for their transferees who may have questions regarding their Home Relocation Appraisal. Employers should work with their Relocation Management Company to understand the Home Relocation Appraisal and how it relates to their company’s relocation and home sale program.

Conclusion

Global Mobility Solutions’ team of global relocation experts has helped thousands of our clients with their Home Relocation Appraisals. We can help your company understand how a Home Relocation Appraisal relates to your company’s home sale program.

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 more about Home Relocation Appraisals from Global Mobility Solutions, the relocation industry and technology experts who are dedicated to keeping you informed and connected. Contact our experts online or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.

Tags Buy a Condominium, Domestic Relocation, Home Relocation Appraisal, Home Sales, relocation management, relocation programs, Winter Home Sales, Winter Home Sellers

Relocation Best Practices Relocation Management Relocation Policy Review Relocation Programs Relocation Technology

Centralization Advantages: What You Should Know

Post author By MIchael Hughes
Post date February 10, 2020

Companies benchmarking their relocation policies often learn about many centralization advantages that can be obtained by moving away from a decentralized business model for their relocation program. Often a company’s decentralized relocation program develops over time through business mergers and acquisitions. Challenges come to light when a transferee from one location moves to a new location that has different relocation policies.

What are the Challenges of Decentralization?

There are many challenges for companies that follow a decentralized business model for their relocation program. Reporting systems are often inconsistent. Therefore, it is difficult to obtain accurate information on the full scope of the relocation program. Costs are often excessive due to a high number of policy exceptions, use of multiple vendors for the same processes, and in-house costs related to maintaining multiple relocation programs. Since business units, HR teams, and other departments operate independently, lack of ownership hampers progress.

Impact on Employees

These challenges impact the satisfaction of new hires and transferees who are subject to decentralized relocation programs. There may be confusion for employees with currencies, visas and documentation, and reporting requirements. Ultimately, these challenges may reflect back on the company’s reputation among job seekers and other employees approached for relocation opportunities.

What are the Centralization Advantages for Relocation Programs?

Companies that develop a centralized business model for their relocation program gain in many ways. These centralization advantages cover all aspects of relocation, and include:

Consistency in operating platforms with robust integration options
Cost containment to reduce variation and increase forecasting and predictability
Customized billing processes that meet the company’s needs
Defined ownership across local, regional, and global entities
Global access to courtesy mobility consulting 24/7/365
Greater discounts across a streamlined network of vendors along with dual bid savings
Reporting capabilities across multiple platforms, anytime, anywhere

What Should Companies do to Obtain Centralization Advantages?

Companies should work with a qualified Relocation Management Company (RMC) that has extensive experience in helping companies obtain centralization advantages for relocation programs. GMS has published a Case Study on Decentralization that describes how a client was able to obtain centralization advantages that led to significant cost savings and greater employee satisfaction.

Companies should ask their RMC a wide range of critical questions to address all of their main concerns. The RMC will help them understand how to obtain centralization advantages for their relocation program. Also, the RMC will help them design their relocation program. As a result, this will help gain the most benefits for the company, new hires, and transferees.

Industry Benchmarking Studies Highlight Centralization Advantages

GMS has also recently published several Industry Benchmarking Studies that will help companies learn whether their relocation program is designed following industry-specific best practices. There are many benefits to a corporate relocation policy benchmarking. For example, employers can learn how they can ensure their competitiveness in their industry to attract and retain talent with the highest level of skills and experience.

Industry best practice is to schedule a relocation program and policy review every 12 to 18 months to ensure your company maintains its competitive position. This review will also help your company learn about how the relocation industry is evolving to meet increased employee demands.

Conclusion

Global Mobility Solutions’ team of corporate relocation experts has helped thousands of our clients benchmark their relocation program and obtain significant savings and process improvements through centralization advantages. Our team can help your company understand how to obtain centralization advantages for its relocation program. As a result, your company will be positioned to make a number of improvements to its relocation program as it works to obtain centralization advantages.

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 more about the centralization advantages your company can obtain for its relocation program. Contact our experts online or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.