Overcoming Challenges Series: Enhancing Employee Experience & Mobility Goals (Part 3)

The success of a global mobility program depends not only on the smooth execution of logistical elements but also on how well the experience aligns with the needs of the employees and the overarching goals of the organization. In this final part of our Overcoming Challenges series, we explore four critical areas: housing and cost of living adjustments, spouse and family support, aligning mobility strategy with business objectives, and retaining talent post-relocation.

Housing and Cost of Living Adjustments

Finding suitable housing in a new location can be a significant challenge for relocated employees, particularly in unfamiliar cities where the cost of living may differ dramatically from what they are used to. For employers, managing these differences and ensuring that employees are appropriately compensated for these variations can be complex, especially when assignments span multiple countries with varying economic conditions.

To address this challenge, a Relocation Management Company (RMC) can help employees partner with local real estate agents and receive the appropriate relocation services. These professionals can provide valuable insights into the housing market and help employees find suitable accommodations that meet their needs and budget. Moreover, using data-driven approaches to determine fair cost of living adjustments ensures that employees receive adequate financial support to maintain their standard of living in their new location, significantly improving their satisfaction levels and encouraging acceptance of a relocation.

Providing housing allowances where necessary is another critical component of this solution. By offering financial support tailored to the specific cost of living in the new location, companies can alleviate financial stress for employees, allowing them to focus on their work and settle into their new environment more comfortably.

Spouse and Family Support

Last week, we touched on this topic because relocation is not just a transition for the employee but also for their spouse and family. Spouses may face difficulties in finding employment in the new location, while children might struggle to adapt to new schools and social environments. These challenges can lead to dissatisfaction and stress for the family, potentially impacting the employee’s work performance and overall well-being.

To support the families of relocated employees, companies should look for family support services, such as NuCompass’ Spouse/Partner Family Services, which provide career support services for spouses and adjustment assistance for the entire family. This support can include job search assistance, professional development resources, and networking opportunities in the new location. Helping spouses find meaningful employment can significantly ease the transition and enhance the family’s overall relocation experience.

Guidance on finding suitable schools for children is also crucial. Providing information about local education systems, school options, and enrollment procedures can help families make informed decisions. Additionally, creating opportunities for social integration through community events and networks can help both spouses and children build new social connections, making the relocation experience more positive and fulfilling.

Aligning Mobility Strategy with Business Objectives

One of the most significant challenges in global mobility is ensuring that the mobility strategy aligns with the company’s broader talent management objectives. If the strategy is not closely tied to the organization’s overall goals, it can result in wasted resources, misaligned expectations, and ultimately, a failure to deliver value to the business.

To ensure alignment, it’s essential to collaborate closely with key stakeholders, including HR, finance, and business unit leaders, to understand the company’s specific goals and tailor the mobility strategy accordingly. This involves setting clear objectives for each assignment, such as talent development, market expansion, or knowledge transfer, and ensuring the mobility programs support these goals.

Regularly reviewing and adjusting the mobility strategy is also critical. As business objectives evolve, the mobility strategy should be flexible enough to adapt and continue delivering measurable results. This ongoing alignment ensures that global mobility remains a strategic asset that supports the company’s growth and success.

Retaining Talent Post-Relocation

Retaining employees after they have relocated can be challenging, especially if they face dissatisfaction or difficulties in their new location. Without proper support, employees may feel isolated, underappreciated, or disconnected from the company’s culture, leading to turnover and the loss of valuable talent.

Providing continuous support to relocated employees is key to retention. This includes offering ongoing career development opportunities, such as training, mentorship, and advancement pathways, to help employees feel engaged and motivated in their current and future roles. Regular feedback sessions are also important for addressing any concerns and ensuring that employees feel heard and valued.

Additionally, creating a strong support network within the company can help relocated employees stay connected to the organization’s culture and goals. By fostering a sense of belonging and providing the tools and resources employees need to succeed, companies can increase retention and ensure that the investment in global mobility pays off in the long term.

Key Takeaways

By enhancing the employee experience and ensuring that mobility strategies are aligned with business objectives, companies can maximize the value of their global mobility programs. This approach not only supports the well-being and satisfaction of employees but also drives business success, making global mobility a strategic advantage in today’s competitive landscape.

About NuCompass

NuCompass Mobility is a veteran-owned, independent mobility management company, offering a comprehensive range of global mobility and U.S. domestic relocation services. For more information about how NuCompass and our CoPilot® or CoPilot Express™ platforms can support your global mobility needs, visit www.nucompass.com/solutions/technology today!