Relocation – Can Recruitment Companies Help?

Job relocation on the brain? Previously, we examined the possible benefits of relocating for a job; weighing up house pricing, salary ranges and in particular, how far your money will go in the South vs the North. Following on from these ideas, this weeks post will explore the next stage of the relocation process specifically, how a recruiter may help with this.

Maybe, you’re unsure how much a new employer will support you during the move? Or whether the decision will be worth the upheaval? We explore these questions further and hopefully help you find some zen!

Relocation, Relocation, Relocation

Where to Start: Who Can Help Me Relocate?

Moving is a stressful process. Especially if you’re not only moving jobs but if you’re planning to move home too. It can feel particularly overwhelming if you’re not moving alone – partners, family and pets all have to move too! Often, resulting in added pressure and worry.

Whilst weighing up the pros and cons of relocating for a new job, you could receive a great deal of advice for free. Whilst this might be your first time relocating, an experienced recruitment consultant is likely to have encountered this situation before. Obviously, we don’t expect our consultants to decorate your new home. However, they will be able to put you in contact with local removal services that you might not be familiar with in a new town.

But, I Heard That Clients Are Reluctant to Hire Relocators, is That True?

When considering direct applicants, it may be true that some employers are reluctant to hire candidates who are looking to relocate. This is because there are so many obstacles that a candidate must overcome to ensure the relocation process runs smoothly. For example:

• Their current employer may make a counteroffer
• House sale/rental could fall through
• A candidate’s partner might not be offered a job within the same area
• Children may not get places at their chosen school

If a direct applicant encounters any of the above issues, they may feel that they have no choice but to delay or even halt their move. However, with a recruiter on your side to guide and support you through the process, any of these obstacles can easily be overcome.

How An Agency Can Fight Your Corner

Fear Not! The current skills shortage within the UK Tech Industry could work in your favour. Because of this skills gap, employers are willing to offer a lot more for candidates than in previous years.

Having a recruiter on your side throughout this process could prove an essential help.

Why? Well, as a direct applicant, it can be hard to know who to contact when things go wrong and how to reach them. Meanwhile, a recruitment consultant already has a trusting relationship with the client and therefore, they are in a better position to help you. If we consider the obstacles above, here are a few examples of ways in which an Agency can help:

• A Recruiters local market knowledge will put you in a better position, if you’re unfamiliar with a new town, easily connecting you with neighbouring businesses and services
• Hold conversations with senior hiring managers that could prove difficult for the candidate to reach
• Prove an additional reference for you as they can vouch for your motivations for relocating
• Negotiate awkward conversations that both candidate and client may feel uncomfortable having
• Boost your CV – Advise you on areas where you could add more detail or any information that should be omitted

Let’s not forget, recruiters are trained in overcoming objections. Why not let them face the gatekeeper for you?

Real-Life Case Studies: How Our Recruiters Have Helped Relocators!

The following case studies are examples of real-life situations where our recruiters have been able to help relocators. Of course, we have changed their names to protect their identity.

Jade:

In late 2019, we met Jade. Jade decided to return home after travelling to Asia for a year. Towards the end of her travels, Jade contacted us as she wanted to secure a new role, to start upon her return.

Our consultants went the extra mile, liaising with Hiring Managers in order to find an interview time-slot that would fit both parties. With the use of our new video interviewing software, Odro, they were able to conduct the interview across time zones and thousands of miles!

The interview went well and Jade accepted a job offer to start as soon as she’d unpacked. Well done, Jade!

Steven:

Additionally, we have also seen an increase in the number of candidates wishing to relocate to the North. One particular candidate, Steven, wished to return to his Northern roots (from London), after evaluating the price of living costs.

In this circumstance, our consultants were able to secure Steven complementary housing from his new employer whilst he found a comfortable place to live! Pretty neat, hey?

You’re as Unique as Your Situation…

Now, we know that this doesn’t happen in every circumstance, every relocation is different. However, having a recruiter on your side can help massively whether you’re seeking accommodation packages, financial assistance, advice on local schools, or anything else!

Many Tech Companies have started to recognise the vast skills gap within the UK – IT market and therefore, realise the benefits of considering job applications from relocators. This puts recruiters in a better position now than ever, if you were considering the move!

What Are Your Thoughts on Relocation for a Job?

Have you been in a relocation situation? Do you have any advice to offer others in the same situation? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below!