Relocating questions

You would think in this economy that job seekers – or those holding onto their positions – would pretty much do anything for job security. Yet a study by outplacement firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas finds that more managers are refusing to relocate for a job.

Job promotions and the relocations that sometimes accompany them were traditionally viewed as steps up the corporate ladder. Whether it be dues paying or a true promotion, relocating was usually viewed as a positive career move. But the survey finds the opposite. Only fourteen percent of the job-seeking managers and executives surveyed relocated for a new job last year. That figure is down from 23% in 2000 and represents the lowest percentage recorded in the 17 years of this survey.

Experts are citing Sept. 11 as the most influential reason why people are sticking to their roots. People realize that there’s more to life than work and are seeking a greater work/life balance. Other factors include the growing probability of war and the economy. Regardless, the numbers are surprising the experts: “We are in the worst job market in over a decade, yet job seekers refuse to take the steps that most certainly would help them find a new job faster,” CEO John Challenger says.

What’s your opinion? Are you surprised by the results or do you think they represent only ultrahigh-level executives who can afford to be picky in this tough economy? What about telework? Do you think companies are embracing it quickly or not quick enough?

Telework always sounds like a great idea, and in many cases there is a lot of success, yet it may not be as prevalent as we think. How is telework being adopted at your company – if at all? How are you handling it as a manager? Drop me a line at mshaw@nww.com I’d be interested to hear your experience.