Quite a number of executive job seekers tell me they’re looking at transitioning to a new job that would require relocating, but are concerned in this shaky economy about picking up and moving without any written guarantees.
A Wall Street Journal Q&A with Toddi Gutner nicely covers this topic.
There’s some great advice here on contingency planning – getting some assurances in writing – without involving an actual contract, a word that makes employers very anxious these days.
According to Jo Bennett, a partner at executive search firm, Battalia Winston, it’s best to “avoid the word ‘contract’ as it brings to mind visions of lawyers scurrying around and can be somewhat off putting to the employer.”
Gutner suggests waiting until you’re actually offered the job (but before accepting, of course), so you’re in a power position to negotiate the “extras” before you say yes to the job.
“You might ask for a guarantee of your first year compensation, an exit package if separation occurs within a specific period of time, or even a move-back provision in your offer letter.”
