Can I ask an employer to pay for my move?

Q: I’m moving at the end of the summer. Can I ask my employer to pay for my move? I work remotely so I can work from anywhere.

A: You can certainly ask your employer to pay for your move either by a reimbursement or flat relocation allowance, but I’d keep your expectations in place. Since your job is remote, the reason for your move is not job-related, so I wouldn’t expect them to pay. That said, considering that the Great Resignation is still underway and they may risk losing you to another employer as companies compete in this tight labor market, perhaps they would be open to something. If you don’t ask, you’ll never get, so you might as well ask!

I’m going to tweak your question in case anyone reading is looking for a new job externally. If you’re relocating, be transparent with your employer that you’re moving (yes, even when the job you’re pursuing is remote). If you land a job offer, you can negotiate a sign-on bonus or relocation allowance or something to help pay for your move. Again, if you don’t ask you won’t get. On the other hand, if you specifically move because the job is located in one area and employment is contingent on the location and the employer initiates it, that’s another story. They will probably pay for the moving costs.

Q: Do I really have to network over the summer? Everyone in my circle of friends has gotten a new job but me. I’ve been looking for months and haven’t found anything I really like so far, so I’ve put my job search on pause. Can I put networking on hold, too?

A: I think you’re asking for my permission here and there’s no shame in that game. First, let me back up. Congrats on not pursuing something you haven’t liked so far! That deserves recognition because so often we think we need to accept every offer that comes our way. But the reality is, by looking for the right fit and carefully and strategically planning your next move, you’ll be in a better place. You don’t want to accept the first job offer only to discover a few months down the road that you’re revising your resume because it wasn’t the right move.

Next, focus on your lane. Some tough love here: Even though your friends have gotten a new job, perhaps they’re in a different industry, a different path, different anything. Eyes back over to you to focus on your swimming lane. So you’ve put your job search on pause. That’s understandable, and yes, I’m giving you permission to put networking on pause, too, but only halfway.*

With an asterisk. Here’s why: Networking doesn’t have to be formal and official. It’s not just an informational interview phone call with your former colleague’s best friend with Outlook reminders to follow up with people you want to build and nurture relationships with. Think of networking as casual conversations at the neighborhood pool, on the tennis court, on the golf course, in your local coffee shop.

Networking is chatting with your friends’ friends at a Memorial Day barbecue or July 4 picnic only to discover they work for your dream company! Keep your eyes and ears open. Have your elevator pitch ready, but embrace the relaxed nature of summer.

— Tribune News Service