Companies are hiring from all corners these days. Have you recently expanded your recruitment efforts to try and attract talent from other cities, states, or countries?

Whether candidates are coming from across the state or the globe, relocations are tricky, to say the least.

Why Is Relocation so Challenging?

The more you know about the problematic aspects of relocating candidates, the easier it is to prepare and set yourself up for success. The following are some of the top challenges companies report when helping potential new employees move:

  • Candidates don’t always want to move.
  • Candidates aren’t enticed by the financial incentives and other perks offered in exchange for relocation.
  • Candidates can’t find housing, good schools, family resources, etc.

Employers face obstacles, such as the massive stacks of paperwork to complete and the research required to help new employees find housing, schools, etc.

These processes are time-consuming, but they can be worth it in the end, particularly if they help companies become more productive and profitable.

How to Identify Candidate Relocation Needs and Expectations

If a candidate has expressed that they’re on the fence about accepting a job because of relocation-related issues, do some digging to find out how you can meet their expectations and fulfill their needs. Here are some examples of questions you might ask:

  • What factors do you need to consider when moving? For example, do you have a spouse or partner who also needs to relocate?
  • What, if any, ties do you have to this area?
  • What characteristics do you look for in a new community?
  • Do you or your family have any specific recreational interests that will influence your decision?
  • Do your rent or own your current residence?
  • What are your expectations when it comes to relocation assistance from an employer?

Once you get answers to these questions, look for ways that you and your team can support a candidate during a transition and help them settle into their new role.

In some cases, you may need to sweeten the deal, so to speak, to encourage candidates to move forward with relocating. For instance, you may need to offer a greater sum to cover their moving expenses or provide a stipend to supplement their spouse’s income while they search for a new job.

How Can Recruitment Agencies Simplify Relocation?

Partnering with a recruitment agency is one of the most effective ways for companies to simplify the relocation process. The following are some benefits that recruitment experts can provide:

Fill in HR Gaps

Depending on the size of the company, they may not have the human capital needed to handle relocations on top of all their other responsibilities. In some cases, the HR department isn’t fully fleshed out yet, and one person is managing everything.

In these cases, outsourcing and working with a recruiting agency will lighten other people’s loads without leaving candidates hanging.

Streamline Relocation Processes

Recruiting agency employees often have the experience and know-how needed to confidently and efficiently facilitate relocations. To make the process as quick and straightforward as possible, an agency likely has the tools needed to make that happen.

Improve Communication

A recruitment agency can also help to improve communication between the hiring company and the new recruits. They may act as an intermediary, getting answers to essential questions, negotiating when needed, and making sure everyone’s needs are met.

Provide Expert Advice

Whether you’ve never relocated a new employee before or you just want help making this relocation easier, a recruiter can provide expert advice.

They can answer questions regarding incentives, moving expenses, reimbursements, finding housing, and more. One common question people have is about whether moving expenses can be claimed on their taxes.

Check-in with New Employees

A recruitment agency also provides an additional layer of support for new employees. Not only will they have their new management to ensure they’re settling in well and finding their footing in their new role, but they’ll also have a recruitment professional checking in regularly.

This extra support can be instrumental in supporting candidates and setting them up for a successful transition.

How to Stand Out as a Recruitment Agency

Recruiters know that the competition in your industry is fierce. To stand out and attract top clients, you need to offer something unique. Here are some key factors that will set you apart:

Specialized Relocation Services

To truly excel as a recruitment agency, you need to specialize in candidate relocation. This means having a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities that come with relocating for work. By offering comprehensive relocation services, you can help your clients attract and retain top talent.

Industry Expertise

Having a broad range of experience is great, but it’s also important to demonstrate expertise in specific industries. Clients want to work with recruiters who understand their business and can provide tailored solutions. By focusing on specific sectors, you can establish yourself as a go-to expert.

Local Knowledge

Knowing the ins and outs of your client’s location is crucial for providing effective recruitment services. By understanding the local job market, cost of living, and other important factors, you can help candidates make informed decisions about relocating. Being well-connected in the community is also a plus.

Personalized Attention

When clients work with a recruitment agency, they want to feel like they’re getting individualized attention. Make sure your clients have a dedicated point of contact who understands their needs and goals. Regular communication and transparency are key.

Positive Reputation

Finally, make sure you have a strong track record of success. Share testimonials and case studies from satisfied clients to demonstrate your value. By prioritizing the needs of your clients and consistently delivering results, you’ll earn a reputation as a trusted partner in the recruitment process.

Simplify Employee Relocation Today

Using a recruitment agency during an employee or candidate relocation can bring many benefits. Agencies that specialize in relocation can help ease the stress and challenges associated with the process. They can assist with everything from finding temporary housing to navigating local schools and healthcare systems.

Additionally, recruitment agencies often have access to a wider pool of qualified candidates, including those who may not be actively seeking new employment. This can save businesses time and resources when trying to fill a position in a new location.

Working with an agency that has industry-specific expertise can also help ensure a good match between the candidate and the job, leading to higher retention rates and greater success in the long run.

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Authors
Nancy Zafrani

Nancy Zafrani is the experienced General Manager of Oz Moving & Storage, with 30 years in the industry and a lifetime of knowledge as a New Yorker. She helped grow the company from 3 employees to 200 with 50 trucks and locations across the US. Her experience and organizational skills have led to over 500,000 successful moves. She is proud to lead a company that provides the best possible moving experience.