I'm Ready to Move, My Spouse Isn't
by Pat Boer
Relocation is not something you should decide upon hastily, no matter how appealing the job offer. Think through the costs of moving, both personally and professionally, and carefully analyze the benefits. Answer the following relocation questions to evaluate if the offer of a new job and a new home is the best choice for you and your partner.
- Does the new company have a written relocation policy? What's covered for my spouse?
- Does the company provide pre-decision making counseling or workshops?
- Are there job opportunities available within the company for my spouse?
- Are there opportunities to meet with other relocating couples there?
- Will the company reimburse my spouse's salary or unemployment period?
- Does the company reimburse my spouse's job search expenses and/or career counseling sessions?
- Will the company reimburse for my spouse's job search trips prior to the move?
- Will the company make referrals to recruiting firms and employment agencies for my spouse?
- If my spouse or children are in college, will the company pay the out-of-state tuition costs after relocation?
- Are trips, travel and relocation expenses covered for a dependent parent or nanny?
- Will childcare expenses be reimbursed during my spouse's job search and relocation process?
- Will the company assist my spouse in setting up interviews?
Recent research shows support services and partner relocation programs play a key role in a spouse's willingness to relocation. However, in spite of increasing services which can cost employers $50,000 or more, many employees reject relocation for lifestyle reasons. For the vast majority this means family circumstances. Reasons cited include recent home purchase, not wanting to leave close knit family relationships and friends, and special circumstances like parents in nursing homes. Other lifestyle situations involve both the spouse's personal and professional life, such as leaving an established client base, licensing or practice issues and/or giving up tenure and academic appointments. Others have work at home arrangements or unusual occupations such as raising horses, dogs, and/or country living, including factors based on location or climatic conditions.
When the issue is one of lifestyle, chances are even attractive support services will not increase a spouse's willingness to relocate.