Archive
Archived ReloJournal Articles
April 2001 - Employers are Missing Out on ROI When Sending Employees on International AssignmentsMembers Only
Employers may spend an estimated $1 million or more apiece when they send employees across national borders for temporary work assignments. Yet they're likely to lose that investment when those employees return.
April 2001 - In Search of Corporate HousingMembers Only
Being the trusted intermediary in search of suitable accommodations for an uprooted employee is by no means an easy task. Operational, financial and policy parameters set by the employer form a basis to start the quest, but success may be measured by the transferee based on ease, lifestyle factors and personal preferences.
April 2001 - Industry AccoladesMembers Only
News and views on the up-and-coming in corporate relocation . . .
April 2001 - On the Road to SuccessMembers Only
The latest news from the household goods moving industry.
April 2001 - Real Estate UpdateMembers Only
News on who's who and what's new in relocation real estate . . .
April 2001 - Relocating to MunichMembers Only
Many of the international companies that decide to set up a subsidiary in Germany choose to do so in Munich and surrounds. One main reason is that Munich is Europe's largest information technology center.
April 2001 - San Jose Tops the Charts in Home Market ValuesMembers Only
Home market values in San Jose, California, are more than six times as high as those in New Orleans, Louisiana and San Antonio, Texas, according to data released by Runzheimer International, the Wisconsin-based management consulting firm.
August 2001 - Factors for Success in the Global MarketplaceMembers Only
Even the most competent and effective business person at home can be seriously undermined by the ubiquitous and unseen forces of cultural differences. The lack of cross-cultural understanding by business people in today's global economy results in increased time to get the job done right, poor job performance, decreased revenues and lost opportunities.
August 2001 - Focus on AustraliaMembers Only
Australia has one of the fastest-growing economies and one of the most stable political systems in the world.
August 2001 - Global Business Costs for World TravelersMembers Only
We have designed a new Microsoft Excel program that provides daily foreign living costs - hotels, meals, and miscellaneous charges - for 275 cities around the globe.
August 2001 - Helping Expats Get Ready for a Healthy AssignmentMembers Only
Of the many goals that expatriates, accompanying family members, and employers have for an international assignment, none is more important than having a safe and healthy experience both abroad and upon repatriation. In fact, the success of an entire assignment may depend on the health of the employee and family.
August 2001 - Industry AccoladesMembers Only
News and views on the up-and-coming in corporate relocation . . .
August 2001 - Real Estate UpdateMembers Only
News on who's who and what's new in relocation real estate . . .
February 2001 - Deducting Moving Expenses: A Refresher for 2000 Tax Returns Members Only
If the move qualifies, the basic moving costs are still deductible as long as you haven't already been reimbursed by your company or another party.
July 2001 - Demystifying the Cost of Living AllowanceMembers Only
One of the most common approaches to expatriate policies is to make certain that the expatriate is essentially no better or worse off financially than he would have been had he stayed home and not accepted the international assignment.
July 2001 - Industry AccoladesMembers Only
News and views on the up-and-coming in corporate relocation . . .
July 2001 - More of the Top Relocation Packages Go to Current Senior Executives Rather Than New HiresMembers Only
A Towers Perrin analysis of 363 proxy statements between 1998 and 2000 found that more than half of the top 50 corporate relocation packages, constituting expense amounts of $250,000 or more, went to senior executives inside organizations as opposed to new hires.
July 2001 - North America's Home Prices Are All Over the MapMembers Only
Purchasing an 8-room, 2,200 square foot home could cost your transferees as much as $746,500 in San Francisco and over $450,000 in Los Angeles. The same home is much easier on the wallet in Montreal ($125,000) and Dallas ($173,700), according to the latest quarterly home value analysis by Runzheimer International.
July 2001 - On the Road to SuccessMembers Only
The latest news from the household goods moving industry
July 2001 - Real Estate UpdateMembers Only
News on who's who and what's new in relocation real estate . . .
July 2001 - Recruiting Challenges Continue Despite Layoff WaveMembers Only
Jane Paradiso, business leader for recruiting solutions at Watson Wyatt Worldwide, says despite the swelling number of laid-off workers, employers face new recruiting challenges that, in some cases, will be even more difficult than they faced during booming economic times.
July 2001 - Word of Mouth is Best Recruiting MethodMembers Only
Employee referral programs (ERPs) are one of the most cost-effective recruiting methods available to find qualified candidates, according to a new survey released by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and Referral Networks.
June 2001 - Industry AccoladesMembers Only
News and views on the up-and-coming in corporate relocation . . .
June 2001 - Joining the Ranks of the EliteMembers Only
The life of an expatriate anywhere in the world is filled with personal highs and lows. There's the exhilaration of conquering challenges and discovering a new culture, the frustration of blundering into cultural differences we don't understand, and the loneliness in trying to find a new comfort zone far from our support network of family and friends.
June 2001 - Making Sense of Hypothetical TaxMembers Only
For the uninitiated, the world of international assignments appears to be a simple world.
June 2001 - On the Road to SuccessMembers Only
The latest news from the household goods moving industry
June 2001 - Pet Relocation: Moving the Feathered, Finned and Four-Legged Members of Your FamilyMembers Only
We've all heard the stories about pets being flown on commercial aircraft dying en route because of a lack of oxygen or extreme temperatures. Believe me, as professional shippers, we hear the concern oozing from every word as we discuss shipping arrangements with worried owners. So, let's take a moment to dispel this and other common "old wives tales."
June 2001 - Real Estate UpdateMembers Only
News on who's who and what's new in relocation real estate . . .
March 2001 - Industry AccoladesMembers Only
News and views on the up-and-coming in corporate relocation . . .
March 2001 - International Short-Term Assignments Bring Challenges for HRMembers Only
Less costly than full expatriate assignments, short-term assignments clearly continue to grow in popularity among multinationals, according to a recently released survey.
March 2001 - Managers Undecided About Viability of TelecommutingMembers Only
When it comes to permitting employees to work from home, executives are decidedly undecided suggest a new OfficeTeam survey. While more than one-third (36%) of the executives polled said they saw no difference in productivity levels between telecommuters and on-site workers.
March 2001 - Managing Expatriates in Stressful and Difficult SituationsMembers Only
The success of any expatriate assignment - in terms of work performance, achievement of company goals, career development, and family welfare - depends in large part on the support given to the expatriate by both home- and host-country managers.
March 2001 - On the Road to SuccessMembers Only
The latest news from the household goods moving industry.
March 2001 - Real Estate UpdateMembers Only
News on who's who and what's new in relocation real estate . . .
March 2001 - Survey Finds Non-Cash Compensation Benefits Can Swing IT CandidatesMembers Only
While most employers are cutting back on employee perks, the survey finds that the same rules do not necessarily apply for IT employees.
March 2001 - The "Coach Approach" Works Best For Managing PeopleMembers Only
How often have you wondered whether you are doing your job right? Whether you are performing to the company's standards? Or to your boss' expectations? And how often have you confronted your annual performance review only to learn there are improvements you could or should have made -- if only you had known.
May 2001 - Economy Impacting Employee TrasfersMembers Only
The nation's economy appears to be affecting the number of employee relocations expected this year by corporate America, according to a recent survey by Atlas Van Lines, the nation's third-larges carrier of household goods.
May 2001 - Industry AccoladesMembers Only
News and views on the up-and-coming in corporate relocation . . .
May 2001 - On the Road to SuccessMembers Only
The latest news from the household goods moving industry
May 2001 - Preparing for Layoffs: Tips for Creating Equitable Severance PackagesMembers Only
With the U.S. unemployment statistics reaching a 20-month high of 4.3 percent, employers and employees should prepare for the uncertain future. Global workplace consulting firm Drake Beam Morin (DBM) advises individuals and managers to know their rights when it comes to severance.
May 2001 - Real Estate UpdateMembers Only
News on who's who and what's new in relocation real estate . . .
May 2001 - Taking a Closer Look at the Expatriate SpouseMembers Only
While the expatriate wife often has the most difficult role in an overseas assignment, she generally receives the least support.
May 2001 - Taxing State of Property OwnershipMembers Only
Based on propety taxes calculated as a percent of home market value, homeowners in and around Rockford, Illinois pay a lot, according to a recent analysis by Runzheimer International, while those in Montgomery, Alabama pay relatively little.
October 2001 - Industry AccoladesMembers Only
News and views on the up-and-coming in corporate relocation.
October 2001 - On the Road to SuccessMembers Only
While cautioning stockholders that projected year-end revenues are not necessarily a sure thing, Atlas World Group CFO Howard Parker recently released numbers that reflect a positive year for the Group and its subsidiaries, which include Atlas Van Lines. Atlas traditionally releases year-end projections at the close of its high-volume summer season.
October 2001 - Real Estate UpdateMembers Only
The Prudential Real Estate Affiliates announced new growth for its network, including seven franchise renewals, one expansion, one acquisition and one affiliation. Renewals include...
September 2001 - 2001 Calendar of EventsMembers Only
September 2001 - December 2001 Calendar
September 2001 - Helping the Spouse or Partner Find a Job Makes for a Smoother RealocationMembers Only
When Bob Smith's company offered to move him from upstate New York to Texas to fill a position in top management, he was delighted - at least initially. Then he realized the relocation could have drawbacks. Although he would be climbing the corporate ladder - a professional goal of his - his wife also was a professional with a job she loved.
September 2001 - Industry AccoladesMembers Only
News and views on the up-and-coming in corporate relocation . . .
September 2001 - Real Estate UpdateMembers Only
News on who's who and what's new in relocation real estate . . .
September 2001 - Relocations: Lawsuits Now More CommonMembers Only
Today's programs have become increasingly sophisticated and extensive. And with the average cost of a move around $50,000, policies and legal issues need some scrutiny.
September 2001 - Schooling for Expat Children - A Primer for ParentsMembers Only
The education of their children is a major concern for expatriate families, as it is for most parents. Most people are familiar with the education choices in their home country, which eases the selection of a suitable school. However, few people are really familiar with the education options available in other countries.
September 2001 - The Labor Market: A New RealtyMembers Only
A new reality for the talent management game is emerging, with the power between employers and employees, over half of whom are in the job market, shifting continually.
April 1996 - Life Across the PondMembers Only
The first culture shock Americans experience when moving to the UK is that they experience culture shock at all! Since we share a common language with our cousins - the Brits - we assume the transition will be easy. Official figures prove otherwise; US to UK relocations (and vice versa) have one of the highest failure rates of all expatriate assignments.
April 1996 - The United Kingdom: A Cultural ProfileMembers Only
Many people liken the United Kingdom to the United States because of these two nations' historical links, but there actually are some subtle, yet important, differences between their cultures.
April 1996 - The US-to-UK English DictionaryMembers Only
So you think you speak English? A glance through this dictionary will surely cause you to have some doubts.
August 1996 - It's a Holiday - Celebration Dates Around the WorldMembers Only
Foreign holidays don't always coincide with those in the US. Here are just a few world celebration days expats and business travelers will want to keep in mind.
August 1996 - Pride of A Nation - A Cultural Profile of the French PeopleMembers Only
Understanding a country's customs and culture will help your expats appreciate why others communicate, negotiate or build business relationships the way they do.
August 1996 - Real Estate Agents Beware: Failure to DiscloseMembers Only
Agents found guilty of fraud - jury awards couple $30,000.
August 1996 - Vive la Difference -- Relocating to ParisMembers Only
Best known in American circles as a city of romance, Paris is also home to a growing number of US expatriates. Following is some helpful information for expats who are new to the city.
December 1995 - A Web to the WiseMembers Only
Want to know where to find the latest and most interesting industry sites on the Web? We'll show you. We are continually surfing the Net in search of the best the world has to offer. So stop by and see us often.
December 1995 - Confessions of a Former Transferee: How I Viewed the Appraisal ProcessMembers Only
Years ago, I accepted a job transfer to a new location, and the relocation process began. During the next several weeks, I suffered through endless inspections - by appraisers; realtors; radon, structural and termite experts - who looked through every closet and corner of my home. I reminded myself "this too, will pass," and that I'd soon be settled comfortably in my new home, relishing the challenges of my new job.
Then I got the call.
December 1995 - It's a Family AffairMembers Only
When his daughter became seriously ill last summer, Steve Sanders turned down a major job promotion so he could be by her side. It was a move that cost him thousands in lost perks and wages. There was no question Sanders' presence there was warranted; any caring parent would have done the same. But in a larger sense, his decision to let his career take a back seat mirrors an emerging trend in corporate America today - that of putting the family first.
December 1995 - On Assignment: When Spouses Can't AdjustMembers Only
The telephone beside my easy chair rang one dark winter afternoon, and I put my novel aside. The woman at the other end of the line said, "You don't know me, but . . ." and then she began to sob.
December 1996 - Expatriate Ranks Grow Despite High CostsMembers Only
Despite high costs, a majority (64%) of US and Canadian firms with international operations sent more employees to work abroad in the past two years, a trend that is likely to continue as business becomes even more globalized, according to a survey by international benefits consultant Foster Higgins.
December 1996 - Profiles in Culture -- Getting to Know the People of ShanghaiMembers Only
As China's financial and industrial center, Shanghai is not unlike New York City in that business plays a primary role in the city's mindset. But while Shanghai may appear more Westernized than most other regions of China, its culture is still very much Chinese. Following are some key themes that will help your expats develop an understanding of the Chinese culture:
December 1996 - Settling Down in ShanghaiMembers Only
Confucius once said "The benevolent like mountain better than river; the intelligent like river better than mountain." In many ways, this truth reflects both the city and the people of Shanghai. For while the mountain stands still, the river keeps moving -- and Shanghai has always been a city on the move.
December 1996 - UK Relocation Practices - How they Differ from North AmericaMembers Only
At first glance, relocation practices in the UK appear very similar to those in the US. But a closer look reveals some significant - and often costly - differences.
February 1996 - Assessing Expatriate SelectionMembers Only
Candidate selection is one of the most important activities an organization can perform.
February 1996 - Cross-Cultural Training and The Bottom LineMembers Only
Decision-making. Negotiations. Deadlines. Commitments. Another meeting this morning... finish that report this afternoon. Just another day at the office, right? Now take it overseas. Just as easy? Perhaps not.
February 1996 - Hallo and Welcome to DeutschlandMembers Only
Welcome to Deutschland, the land of beer and sausages, historic castles, and more than 80 million Germans. Situated in the middle of Europe, the country is surrounded by Austria, France, the Netherlands, Poland, the Czech Republic and Hungary - and Italy and Belgium are just a few hours away. Expats to this fine country will find that plenty of new opportunities and adventures await them
January 1996 - Australia: A Cultural ProfileMembers Only
One of the main themes of Australian culture is egalitarianism - the idea of equal rights for all. Although this is also true in the US, the value has a notably different slant in Australia. While Americans lean toward equal opportunity, Australians are more interested in equal results. They are also less apt to emphasize an attitude of strong self-reliance.
January 1996 - Moving Your Expat's Goods into AustraliaMembers Only
Australia is often described as the most beautiful place on earth and, although admittedly somewhat biased, I would be the first to agree. The size of the continental United States, the country boasts a diverse landscape - from tropical rainforest to barren desert, fertile valleys and alpine resorts, to endless miles of sandy beaches and of course, the Great Barrier Reef. In addition to the natural beauty with which it's been blessed, Australia is also home to a number of cosmopolitan cities that are attractions in themselves.
January 1996 - On the Move to the Land "Down Under"Members Only
When many Americans think of Australia, they envision a land of enchantment. A land where vast countrysides and cattle ranches coincide with rich forests and sprawling beaches. A place where a pioneering, innovative spirit is somehow at harmony with the friendly, laid-back personality of the people.
All of this is true, and Australia beckons people around the world to enjoy its natural beauties and leisurely lifestyle. But it is also a country with growing prowess as a business center for many global companies, and chances are good your expats will one day relocate there.
July 1996 - Bravo Brazil - A Cultural ProfileMembers Only
Understanding a new country's customs and culture will help your expats appreciate why others communicate, negotiate or build business relationships the way they do.
July 1996 - Bright Lights, Big City - A Look at Sao PauloMembers Only
Its size and population alone make Sao Paulo an intimidating place for some . . . others will embrace the vibrant lifestyle of one of the world's most dynamic cities.
July 1996 - From Briefcases to BaseballMembers Only
Men and women today want more time for themselves and their families - and they're willing to sacrifice pay and hours to get it, according to a survey by the staffing services firm Robert Half International.
July 1996 - International Candidate Selection: Improving Success, Limiting FailureMembers Only
Too often, selection of candidates for an international assignment is a reaction to an urgent need, a "gut" feeling about an employee, or an afterthought.
June 1996 - How to Move to Hong Kong - and Live to Tell About ItMembers Only
Relocating to Hong Kong without corporate assistance? Here's some helpful advice from an expat who's been there.
June 1996 - Taming the DragonMembers Only
Many expats to Hong Kong assume that because of the British presence there, the transition into the culture will be easier. Instead, they should be prepared for the hidden differences in attitude and culture they will encounter.
June 1996 - The Long Road HomeMembers Only
Due to the high costs of international relocation, companies today are paying more attention to overseas assignments. Often neglected in the "International Relocation Procedure Book," however, is the final phase of the assignment -- returning "home." Having experienced repatriation myself, I know that although it is challenging, there are also ways people can ease reentry shock and achieve a smoother transition to their home country
June 1996 - Where East Meets WestMembers Only
No one is quite sure how Hong Kong's 1997 reversion to Chinese rule will impact its current capitalistic business culture and democratic values. For now, perhaps the best way to understand Hong Kong is to think of it as a Chinese culture influenced by Western practices. Although its traditions and values are comparable to China's, Hong Kong Chinese are more individualistic and take more risks than their counterparts in most other Asian societies. Following are some key themes that will help your expats better understand the Hong Kong culture.
March 1996 - 10 Tips for Managing Life in AmericaMembers Only
Confucius once said that all people are the same, itâ??s just their habits that are different. Thatâ??s as true here in the US as it is anywhere else. Whether you are here as a visitor, on a long-term business assignment, or have decided to live here permanently, you will likely find that our way of life is different from yours. Here are a few firsthand tips on getting along in the US.
March 1996 - In the Land of the Red, White and Blue - Inside the American MindsetMembers Only
What makes us American? Here's a brief look at freedom, equal opportunity and other values we hold dear.
March 1996 - Living in the USAMembers Only
Access USA, Inc. welcomes Relocation Journal & Real Estate News to its list of publications printing this monthly column. Each month, we will answer questions regarding both immigration law and lifestyle issues.
March 1996 - On the Outside Looking In: Worldly Perspectives on American CultureMembers Only
What is it like to cross American borders for the first time? To enter a culture where "time is money?" Where competition is fierce and business informal? Where the pursuit of individual freedom forms the cornerstone of society?
We decided to find out. Our interviews with expatriates to the US reveal some interesting - albeit accurate - insights into the American culture. If you're American - and you're honest - you'll see yourself amid their comments.
May 1996 - Diversity Training is Based on a False PremiseMembers Only
Diversity training has become part of the fabric of American life. Increasingly, corporations and agencies spend millions trying to bring employees of various races together by stressing how different they are. Generally, these programs start from the premise that racial and ethnic groups differ in predictable ways in their values, work habits, management and communications styles, or approaches to problem solving. But there is strong evidence that stressing differences does little to improve race relations, and may even make them worse.
May 1996 - Rethinking American Management StrategiesMembers Only
Easily lost in all of the logistical work and strategizing that precede a foreign assignment is the fact that American expatriates often rely on a managerial mindset that, while tried and tested at home, will not work abroad.
May 1996 - South Africa - A World in One CountryMembers Only
South Africa! For the foreign visitor with a sense of adventure, the very name of this mysterious country conjures up vibrant images - of sun drenched beaches and cosmopolitan cities, vast jungle landscapes teeming with magnificent wildlife, modern technology and ancient tribal cultures. All of these exist here in the midst of a rich mosaic of races, creeds and ideologies.
May 1996 - South Africa: A Cultural ProfileMembers Only
Expatriates to South Africa will encounter a nation rich in cultural diversity. Although this country of 40 million people is predominantly black, its white population comprises the majority of the business community.
November 1996 - Did You Know? 10 Fast Facts About TorontoMembers Only
10 Fast Facts About Toronto
November 1996 - Northern Exposure - On the Move to TorontoMembers Only
Located on the scenic shores of Lake Ontario, Toronto is a modern, cosmopolitan city with a decidedly international flavor. Known as a "city of neighborhoods," its more than two million residents reflect 80 different ethnic groups and over 100 languages and dialects. This multicolored tapestry of life offers an intoxicating blend of customs, foods and cultures.
November 1996 - Profiles in Culture -- A Snapshot Look at the Canadian PeopleMembers Only
Canadians have long sought a way to verbalize their identity, and often define themselves more by what they are not, rather than by what they are. Nevertheless, following are some key themes that will help your expats develop an understanding of Canadian culture.
October 1996 - Managing Employee Mobility in a Challenging DecadeMembers Only
Global businesses need global executives, but increasing societal pressures are hindering employees’ ability -- and desire -- to be mobile
October 1996 - On the Move to the Land of the Rising SunMembers Only
Japan has been described by some as "the ultimate East-meets-West, 20th-century experience," and indeed, it is a land of contrasts. A place where ancient culture lives in harmony with modern technology . . . where quiet tradition rubs elbows with glitz and glamour . . . where cherry blossoms release their gentle fragrance in the shadow of cold steel skyscrapers.
October 1996 - Relocation -- Is it Worth it?Members Only
Developing a financial analysis of an employeeâ??s move helps both the employer and employee determine whether a relocation is really worth it.
October 1996 - Understanding the Japanese MindsetMembers Only
Understanding a country's customs and culture will help your expats appreciate why others communicate, negotiate or build business relationships the way they do.
October 2001 - A Work/Life Lens Helps Bring a Global Workforce Into FocusMembers Only
The issues that affect the workers in each country are a tangled skin of that society's views of children and families, their cultural norms, the governmental infrastructure, the legal system, even the political and economic climates.
October 2001 - Employers Going Beyond The Call of Duty for ReservistsMembers Only
As thousands of military reservists are being called for active duty in response to the events of September 11, many employers are planning to continue providing full medical benefits for reservists - above and beyond what is required. This is according to a Watson Wyatt survey of 51 employers representing approximately 500,000 full-time employees. The survey looked at how employers are making decisions to handle compensation and medical benefits for affected reservist employees and their families.
October 2001 - First Union National Bank Launches "Relocation Card" for Businesses and Employees Members Only
The First Union Relocation Card is a prepaid debit card designed to help companies manage their relocation expenses for employees. The card carries the VISA© symbol, enabling relocating employees to use the card to pay for moving expenses at more than 22 million VISA merchant locations worldwide, plus access cash at more than 643,000 ATMs in the VISA/Plus network.
September 1996 - 'Bite the Wax Tadpole' and Other International Marketing BlundersMembers Only
When General Motors introduced the Chevy Nova in South America, it was unaware that in Spanish 'no va' means 'it won't go.' The company later renamed the car to the Caribe in Spanish markets, and the naming snafu became a classic case study in college marketing textbooks. But as the following examples show, some students were either absent that day, or not paying attention:
September 1996 - On the Move to the Emerald Isle Members Only
The beauty of its countryside and the friendly warmth of its people make Ireland a welcome destination for US expats.
September 1996 - Reducing Home Sale Real Estate CostsMembers Only
A noted relocation cost management specialist gets into the "nuts and bolts" of lowering home sale program costs.