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Hello folks
Long-time listener, first time posting …
Has the topic of Manager Relocation come up yet?

From 2001 through 2005, I had been working with a company located in Irvine, California as a traveling sales, then training manager. I was located in Atlanta, Georgia and though I spent a few weeks now and then in Irvine I was not relocated there. The company was due to be acquired in 2005 and rather than facing the likely prospect of relocating I took a position with another company rather than relocate. (For many reasons but mostly the cost of living comparing Atlanta to Irvine.)

Now I cant say I have been entirely pleased with the current job but it has it good points. However the manager I had at my old company has come calling and wants me back. It does involve relocating and I am thinking this may be a second chance. I met with him and Human Resources in Irvine a few days ago and we talked over a few points and I am awaiting a proper offer.

I would appreciate anyone’s thoughts on relocating for a position including salary, time lines, selling of my current home and such. Thanks

cb_bob's picture

rayberg -

Great question! I recently went through a relocation from Minnesota to New York. I am certain that I left a lot of relocation assistance and benefits on the negotiating table. I am also interested in responses to your question.

I applied for a job in another company owned by the same parent company. I paid my own way to fly out for the interview. Immediately after the interview, the president of the company offered me the job. I did have the wherewithal to bring up salary (my request was 20% more than I was expecting), but did not mention relocation assistance or assistance in selling my home.

A few days later, I was given a verbal offer for the salary that I asked for, which was more than I expected. At this point, I felt that it was too late to bring up relocation assistance or assistance in selling my home. So, I accepted the offer.

After a two week notice (I wish I knew about M-T sooner!) and one week to drive all of my stuff half way across the country, I was at work in my new position.

Lessons Learned:
#1: ALWAYS ask for relocation assistance.
#2: NEVER, EVER drive your own moving truck!!!
#3: A relocation can DRAMATICALLY move your career path forward!

Sorry for the long post.

Bob

rayberg's picture

Thanks for the reply, Bob!
I did ask for a 20% increase in salary, just to offset the difference in the cost of living concerning my current (modest) household in Atlanta and to maintain that modest way of life in California.

I am awaiting info on a relocation package but they have already said they don’t assist in selling homes any more.

I am considering a “phased” move with myself taking the job and a corporate apartment for a few months as the spouse wraps things up in Atlanta and we would finalize the entire relocation in early summer.

That said; if anybody else has a thought I would appreciate it. This is a big step for me and one that I have never taken. (I'll continue this post as the negotiations move forward)

lwaage's picture

rayberg,

Be mindful that whatever relocation benefits your employer pays to you or on your behalf will likely be taxable income (the only items not taxed by the IRS are: Final move expenses for airfare, some mileage, lodging and meals; shipment of household goods and car; storage up to 30 days. Corporate housing can cost about $3-4,000 per month, and is all taxable income. If you are considering a phased move in which the company pays your rent, you will be responsible for paying income taxes on those rental amounts.

I recommend that you try to negotiate tax assistance, often called "gross up", using a calcuation method called Equalization. It is the most comprehensive and will not leave you with any tax burden.

Another cost-of-living tool that is often used when moving to high cost areas is a mortgage interest subsidy, in which the employer pays a percentage of your mortgage interest for 3-5 years, at a delining rate each year. This helps to acclimate you to the new area's costs.

rayberg's picture

wow ... thanks lwaage.
Those are great tips that I certainly did not think of.
Another friend told me yesterday that her company offered to pay closing costs if she bought a home in the new area within the first six months. It appears that negotiation is key.

Thanks to all who are dropping in tips.
Ray