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Here's your quick checklist on how to hire paid relocation for couples. Read on for more details.

This hire guide was edited by the ZipRecruiter editorial team and created in part with the OpenAI API.

How to hire Paid Relocation For Couples

In today's competitive business landscape, the ability to attract and retain top talent is a critical driver of organizational success. For companies seeking to fill roles that require geographic mobility, offering paid relocation for couples is an increasingly popular strategy. This approach not only broadens the talent pool but also demonstrates a commitment to employee well-being and work-life balance. When both members of a couple are considered in the relocation process, organizations can significantly reduce friction, increase acceptance rates, and foster long-term loyalty.

Hiring the right Paid Relocation For Couples employee is a nuanced process that requires careful attention to both technical qualifications and the unique personal circumstances involved in relocating two individuals. The impact of a successful hire in this area extends beyond the immediate role, influencing organizational culture, productivity, and even employer branding. Employees who feel supported during a major life transition are more likely to integrate quickly, perform at a high level, and become advocates for your company.

Medium and large businesses, in particular, stand to benefit from robust paid relocation programs for couples, as these organizations often require specialized skills that may not be available locally. By investing in comprehensive relocation support, companies can attract candidates from a national or even global talent pool, ensuring that business objectives are met with the best possible personnel. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to hiring Paid Relocation For Couples employees, from defining the role and sourcing candidates to onboarding and retention, equipping HR professionals and business leaders with the insights needed to make informed, effective hiring decisions.

Clearly Define the Role and Responsibilities

  • Key Responsibilities: A Paid Relocation For Couples employee is typically responsible for managing or facilitating the relocation process for employees and their partners or spouses. This can include coordinating logistics such as housing, travel, and moving services, as well as providing support for job placement assistance for the accompanying partner. In some cases, the role may also involve policy development, vendor management, and serving as a liaison between the company, the relocating employees, and external service providers. In larger organizations, these professionals may oversee multiple relocations simultaneously, ensuring compliance with company policies and legal requirements.
  • Experience Levels: Junior Paid Relocation For Couples professionals generally have 1-3 years of experience and may focus on administrative support or single relocations. Mid-level employees, with 3-7 years of experience, often manage more complex cases, negotiate with vendors, and provide higher-touch support to couples. Senior professionals, with 7+ years of experience, may lead relocation programs, develop policies, and manage teams. They are expected to handle high-stakes or executive relocations and contribute to strategic planning.
  • Company Fit: In medium-sized companies (50-500 employees), Paid Relocation For Couples roles may be more hands-on, with employees wearing multiple hats and directly interacting with relocating couples. In large organizations (500+ employees), the role may be more specialized, with a focus on policy, process optimization, and managing a team or a portfolio of relocations. The scale and complexity of relocations increase with company size, requiring advanced project management and stakeholder engagement skills.

Certifications

Certifications play a vital role in establishing credibility and expertise for Paid Relocation For Couples professionals. The most recognized certification in this field is the Global Mobility Specialist (GMS) designation, offered by Worldwide ERC. This certification demonstrates a deep understanding of global mobility management, including the unique challenges of relocating couples and families. To earn the GMS, candidates must complete a series of courses covering topics such as policy development, tax compliance, immigration, and cross-cultural training, and pass a comprehensive exam. The GMS is highly valued by employers as it signals a commitment to best practices and ongoing professional development.

Another relevant certification is the Certified Relocation Professional (CRP), also administered by Worldwide ERC. The CRP is designed for professionals who manage or administer employee mobility programs. It covers a broad range of topics, including real estate, household goods transportation, and partner/spouse assistance. To qualify, candidates need a minimum of one year of experience in relocation and must pass a rigorous exam. The CRP is particularly useful for those managing domestic relocations or working with third-party relocation vendors.

For those involved in international assignments, the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) offers the SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) and SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) credentials. While broader in scope, these certifications include modules on global mobility and can be advantageous for professionals overseeing relocations across borders.

Employers benefit from hiring certified professionals as they bring up-to-date knowledge of legal requirements, tax implications, and best practices in supporting couples during relocation. Certification also indicates a proactive approach to professional growth and a commitment to delivering high-quality service, reducing the risk of costly errors and ensuring a smooth transition for relocating employees and their partners.

Leverage Multiple Recruitment Channels

  • ZipRecruiter: ZipRecruiter is an ideal platform for sourcing qualified Paid Relocation For Couples professionals due to its advanced matching technology and broad reach. The platform allows employers to post job openings to hundreds of job boards with a single submission, increasing visibility among active job seekers. ZipRecruiter's AI-driven candidate matching system proactively suggests top candidates, saving time and improving the quality of applicants. Employers can also take advantage of customizable screening questions to filter for specific relocation experience or certifications. According to recent data, ZipRecruiter boasts high success rates for filling specialized HR and mobility roles, making it a top choice for companies seeking to hire quickly and efficiently.
  • Other Sources: Internal referrals remain a powerful recruitment channel, especially for roles requiring trust and discretion. Employees who have experienced successful relocations may recommend candidates from their professional networks. Industry associations, such as Worldwide ERC, often host job boards and networking events tailored to relocation professionals. Professional networking platforms and general job boards can also yield strong candidates, particularly when job postings are detailed and highlight the unique aspects of paid relocation for couples. Engaging with relocation service providers and attending industry conferences can further expand your reach and attract passive candidates who may not be actively seeking new opportunities but are open to the right offer.

Assess Technical Skills

  • Tools and Software: Paid Relocation For Couples professionals should be proficient in relocation management software such as MovePro, UrbanBound, or Equus AssignmentPro. Familiarity with HR information systems (HRIS) like Workday or SAP SuccessFactors is also important for tracking employee data and managing benefits. Knowledge of project management tools such as Asana, Trello, or Microsoft Project can help coordinate complex relocations involving multiple stakeholders. Additionally, experience with expense management platforms and customer relationship management (CRM) systems is valuable for budgeting and communication.
  • Assessments: To evaluate technical proficiency, consider administering practical tests that simulate real-world relocation scenarios. For example, candidates might be asked to develop a relocation plan for a couple moving internationally, including timelines, vendor selection, and cost estimates. Reviewing case studies or requesting work samples can provide insight into their problem-solving abilities and attention to detail. Online assessments and software-specific tests can further validate proficiency in key platforms. During interviews, ask candidates to walk through their process for managing a complex relocation, highlighting their familiarity with relevant tools and best practices.

Evaluate Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Communication: Paid Relocation For Couples professionals must excel at communicating with a diverse range of stakeholders, including relocating employees, their partners, HR teams, external vendors, and senior management. Clear, empathetic communication is essential for setting expectations, addressing concerns, and ensuring all parties are informed throughout the relocation process. During interviews, look for candidates who can articulate complex information simply and demonstrate active listening skills.
  • Problem-Solving: Relocation often involves unexpected challenges, such as last-minute changes in housing availability or visa complications. Successful candidates should display resilience, adaptability, and a proactive approach to problem-solving. Ask behavioral interview questions that require candidates to describe how they handled difficult relocations or resolved conflicts between couples and service providers. Look for evidence of creative thinking and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
  • Attention to Detail: Managing paid relocations for couples requires meticulous attention to detail, from coordinating travel arrangements to ensuring compliance with company policies and legal requirements. Errors can lead to costly delays or dissatisfaction. To assess this skill, present candidates with hypothetical relocation scenarios and ask them to identify potential risks or oversights. Reviewing past work or requesting references can also provide insight into their reliability and thoroughness.

Conduct Thorough Background and Reference Checks

Conducting thorough background checks is essential when hiring a Paid Relocation For Couples employee. Begin by verifying the candidate's employment history, focusing on roles that involved relocation management, HR, or related responsibilities. Contact previous employers to confirm dates of employment, job titles, and specific duties. Inquire about the candidate's ability to handle sensitive situations, maintain confidentiality, and deliver high-quality service to relocating couples.

Reference checks should include questions about the candidate's communication skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage complex projects. Ask for examples of successful relocations they have managed, as well as any challenges encountered and how they were resolved. Confirming certifications is also critical; request copies of credentials such as the GMS or CRP and verify their validity with the issuing organizations.

Depending on the level of responsibility, consider conducting criminal background checks, especially if the role involves handling sensitive personal information or company funds. For international relocations, additional due diligence may be required to ensure compliance with local laws and regulations. Finally, review the candidate's online presence for professionalism and alignment with company values. A comprehensive background check reduces risk and ensures you are hiring a trustworthy, capable professional who can represent your organization effectively during the relocation process.

Offer Competitive Compensation and Benefits

  • Market Rates: Compensation for Paid Relocation For Couples professionals varies based on experience, location, and company size. Junior-level employees typically earn between $50,000 and $70,000 annually, while mid-level professionals can expect salaries in the $70,000 to $95,000 range. Senior relocation specialists or managers, particularly those with certifications and experience managing international assignments, may command salaries of $100,000 to $140,000 or more. In high-cost-of-living areas or competitive industries, salaries may be higher to attract top talent. Bonuses and performance incentives are also common, especially for roles tied to successful relocations or program outcomes.
  • Benefits: To attract and retain top Paid Relocation For Couples talent, offer a comprehensive benefits package that goes beyond salary. Standard benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. Relocation professionals often value flexible work arrangements, such as remote or hybrid schedules, given the nature of their work. Additional perks may include professional development opportunities, certification reimbursement, and access to wellness programs. For roles involving frequent travel, consider offering travel allowances or corporate credit cards. Companies that provide robust support for the relocating couple”such as spousal job search assistance, cultural training, and family integration services”stand out as employers of choice. These benefits not only improve employee satisfaction but also enhance the overall success of the relocation program.

Provide Onboarding and Continuous Development

Effective onboarding is crucial for ensuring that a new Paid Relocation For Couples employee integrates smoothly into your organization and is set up for long-term success. Begin with a comprehensive orientation that covers company culture, policies, and the specifics of your relocation program. Introduce the new hire to key stakeholders, including HR colleagues, department heads, and external vendors they will work with regularly. Providing a detailed overview of current relocation cases and processes helps the employee understand expectations and hit the ground running.

Assign a mentor or onboarding buddy”ideally someone with experience in relocation management”to provide guidance during the first few months. This support system can answer questions, offer feedback, and help the new employee navigate challenges unique to relocating couples. Schedule regular check-ins to assess progress, address concerns, and provide opportunities for ongoing learning and development.

Investing in training on your company's relocation management software, project management tools, and compliance requirements ensures the employee is fully equipped to perform their duties. Encourage participation in industry webinars, workshops, or certification programs to foster continuous growth. By prioritizing a structured, supportive onboarding process, you increase retention, boost productivity, and reinforce your organization's commitment to employee success”both for the new hire and the couples they support.

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