How to Answer the “Are You Willing to Relocate?” Question: The Complete How-To Guide

Whether you’ve been hoping for a relocation offer since you started at your company or you dread the possibility of moving, you’ll have to make significant considerations before agreeing to relocate. 

Does your company offer relocation packages? What do those packages include? Does your company provide a stipend to cover moving costs (including moving trucks, travel costs, or professional auto transport services) and transitional living costs (like paying for a short-term rental until you close on a new home)? Does your employer’s relocation package meet your needs?

It’s important to advocate for yourself if your boss pops the relocation question, but first, you’ll need to do your homework. 

Sleep on it

Don’t agree to relocate right away. Your first response to your employer or HR department should be, “Let me think about it.” If your employer doesn’t allow you at least 24 hours to think it over, you shouldn’t accept the deal. 

If you’re living with a partner, talk it over with them. If you have children, talk about the impact that moving will have on their social, emotional, and physical well-being. If relocation turns out to be the right decision for you, you’ll need to get to work on your deal-breaker items for a relocation package.

Make a list of your needs and expectations

Before you begin negotiating the relocation package with your employer, figure out what financial or physical challenges you’ll face during the moving process. This process will enable you to better advocate for yourself when it comes time to talk business. Make this list before meeting with your employer and certainly before signing any contracts. Some examples of expenses to think about include:

• The physical cost of moving (movers, car shipping, rental moving trucks/vans)
• Real estate costs
• Early cancellation fees for memberships and services
• Plane or train tickets

If you live with your spouse, consult them when making your list. This move will affect your spouse too, so they should have a say in your list of non-negotiables. Once you’ve decided to consider the relocation and prepared your list of needs during the transition, you can bring that list to your employer and begin negotiations. 

Figure out what your company offers

Before you meet with your supervisor, visit your HR department. Ask them if the company has a standard relocation package, and if they do, explore the standard package with an HR expert. If there isn’t a package in place, ask about past relocation packages for other employees.

Compare the standard packages or precedent cases with your list of non-negotiables. Are your requests reasonable? Reevaluate some items on your list as needed, and determine how you’ll negotiate for the compensation you just can’t go without. 

Begin negotiations with your employer

Once you have a clear idea of what your company offers and how those offerings compare with your needs, tell your employer that you’re willing to relocate if they’ll negotiate the terms of the relocation package. 

If they agree to negotiate, express appreciation for the existing compensation package. Even though you’re entitled to support during the moving process, expressing gratitude will start you off on the right foot while negotiating your relocation package. 

Start with the problematic items in the existing package. For example, if your employer will pay for relocating one vehicle, but they get to choose the auto transport company and the maximum cost, that’s something to mention. If you’ve done your homework, you know the importance of hiring a quality auto transport service, and you’ll likely want to choose your own company. 

After customizing the existing package to meet your needs, discuss your supplemental deal-breaker items (anything on your list of non-negotiables that isn’t covered by the standard package). Remain willing to compromise if needed, but keep your non-negotiables in mind. If your employer doesn’t budge on a condition that’s key to your move, reconsider taking the deal. 

Sign the contract and start the relocation process

Once you’ve negotiated a relocation contract that suits the needs of you and your family, shake hands and celebrate your success. It’s time to share the exciting news with your friends, family, and coworkers.

Most importantly, thank your employer for their flexibility and generosity. While you may be excited to start fresh at a new location, you shouldn’t burn any bridges on your way out. 

Think about it

Relocation can be an exciting opportunity, but it’s important to advocate for yourself before accepting any relocation deals. 

Remember to give significant thought to the logistics before committing. Trust your gut. If it’s the right time to move, do your research and get the best compensation package possible.