Relocation Benefits?

Reader Question:

I am considering a move from Jacksonville, Florida to New York City. I have never had to relocate for a position before, and it would be with a new company. What kind of benefits / allowances / assistance should I require (moving, some of kind “safety net” or “buy out” as part of the contract should the position not be all that it was promised to be, etc.). I have never had to move for a job before, and this would be a drastic step. Also, I am used to making a $35,000 base + about $20,000 to $25,000 in bonuses annually. How would this translate to living in Manhattan?

Recruiter’s Advice:

You have asked a couple of good questions and you really need to consider both of them thoroughly before you make a move. To answer the question in regards to compensation, take the following steps and you can determine what your salary would need to be in Manhattan to live a comparable lifestyle:

1. Click on - http://www.searchlogixgroup.com/industry/links.htm
2. Then click Relocation Services
3. Then go to Relocation Tools

As far as relocation, packages from company to company are very different. Additionally, packages differ within an organization depending on the level of the position you are going into. The majority of the time for anything that is less than a Sr. Manager role, an organization would pay for the cost of household goods to be packed and shipped. If you are renting, they may provide some assistance to break a lease if there is a fee involved to do so. We have never seen an organization pay realtor fees and closing costs on new homes for positions under the Director level.

As far as a safety net or buy out, it is something you can certainly ask for and potentially negotiate. However, the same usually holds true in regards to level and relocation. An organization is much more likely to put one in place for senior level executives, not very likely lower level positions.

Hope this helps. Good luck in your next career move and feel free to contact The SearchLogix Group should we be of further assistance.