Category Archives: Blog

Most relocation packages focus on giving employees higher salaries, bigger allowances, and other monetary perks designed to get employees interested to move to and work in another country.

Although these elements will definitely pique the interest of most employees, many of them still have other matters to think about, particularly if they have families.

Employees who are offered the chance to relocate abroad will go through the stressful and emotionally laden experience of uprooting their family, leaving behind their loved ones, and moving to a new country.

With this in mind, employees with families given a chance to take up a position overseas may need more than just financial assistance.

Giving Expat Families a Lending Hand

If you have employees moving abroad, a provider of relocation services in Singapore shares below six steps you can take to help their families make a smooth transition:

1. Include your employee’s family in key discussions.

The needs of an employed family man differ from those of a single employee.

Consequently, the needs of one family can vary from those of another.

If you want to be more proactive in supporting your employees’ families during an overseas international relocation, you must consider the members’ specific concerns and needs.

It is, therefore, crucial to know about the needs of your employee’s family. Take the time to schedule at least one meeting with them to find out their concerns and expectations.

Use the information you get to customise your relocation package, moving timeline, and services you want to provide to the employee’s family.

2. Double-check your relocation package.

Sufficient financial support is crucial in ensuring your employees’ and their families’ smooth transition.

If you already have a relocation package, you need to review it to ensure it can also support some of the crucial needs of your employee’s spouse or family based on your discussions.

For instance, if visa processing for the employee’s family is not included in the relocation package, find out if your company can cover it. Also, check if you can provide financial assistance to help the spouse look for a new job.

Additionally, find out if you can include educational support for the children. If this is not feasible, figure out which fees you can cover in the short term.

Extending financial support to your employee’s family can make the entire relocation process less stressful and more pleasant for them.

3. Create a moving timetable that works for the family.

A moving schedule can help individual and group relocations go smoothly and become less chaotic. As such, help your employee and their family to create one.

Work with your employee and their family to create a moving timeline that they can follow.

Ideally, everyone should start planning at least six months before their target departure.

This timetable should cover all processes involved in an international move, including sorting their belongings, packing, cancelling utility services, and obtaining all documents from their children’s schools to formalise the transfer.

Make sure you work with your employee and their family to create realistic timelines they can stick with.

Also, consider providing additional assistance to ensure your employee and their families follow the timetable. Offer to help with packing or enlist the services of relocation companies in Mumbai that can take care of this process.

4. Have the employees join the pre-departure training.

If you only provide pre-departure training to your employees, it’s time to change this strategy and include their families in this vital part of the pre-move process.

To ensure families benefit from this program, include the following topics:

• Area orientation
• Information and tips on living in their new environment
• Selecting schools for children
• Managing culture shock
• Tips for socialising in a foreign setting
• Career opportunities for the employee’s spouse

During the orientation, encourage the participants to ask questions and voice their concerns so that an expert can address them properly.

The best expatriate programs extend their pre-departure orientation to the employees’ families. Because of this, expand the scope of this service.

5. Help families look for a good school for the children.

The unhampered education of their children is the top concern of families when they move abroad.

When parents are not sure they can find a good school for their children, they will have a major issue to worry about, and a massive hurdle to overcome.

Regardless of which stage of the move your employee and their family are in, provide school search service for their children. Look for ones near their home if they already have one.

Also, provide your employee with as much information as possible about the schools to help them make the right decision.

6. Provide healthcare assistance to families.

To ensure everyone relocating is in good health, offer a medical assessment for the international staff and their families before their departure, and also annually throughout their assignment.

Doing so ensures any medical issues are identified quickly and can be managed or prevented from worsening.

Also, ensure your employee and their family have access to healthcare in their new home. They should have comprehensive coverage so that they won’t have to worry about anything when they need medical assistance.

Although an international assignment holds plenty of promises to an employee, it can be full of challenges, too. Follow these steps and you can help your staff and their family experience a stress-free and successful move to any country.

Get more tips for a successful international relocation on our Blog page.

Even though most countries are multi-cultural today, culture shock is a real phenomenon. People in different places tend to have different languages, beliefs, eating habits, taste in music, tradition, customs, and values.

Every country has its own culture. You may experience a contemporary culture in the US and a much conservative culture in China.

Once you move to a foreign land you are subjected to unfamiliarity around you. Things are no more what they used to be back home. It can be bewildering to do simple things.

This situation when you are disoriented and trying to adapt to a new environment is when you will experience culture shock!

What is Culture Shock?

After an overseas international relocation, you may often feel disoriented, vulnerable and anxious in unfamiliar surroundings. You may also get frustrated as the social norms you were used to are no more relevant. This struggle to adapt to a new environment is called a culture shock.

How can you overcome it?

Learn about the new place.

Try to quickly read up about the new place you shifted to online on blogs, magazines, newspapers and books etc. You can start to adapt to the new place this way.

Get familiar with your neighborhood

Once you unpack, start exploring nearby areas, Look for places where you can spend your evenings meeting new people. Interact with them, this will expose you to the local community. Through locals, you can know more about the place such as history, festivals, events etc.

Also, look for places where you can buy daily household goods, where you can have breakfast, do your laundry, take a haircut etc. this will help you settle in.

Learn the local language

Perhaps the most important thing to do when you relocate is to learn the local language and its accent. Get a translation book. Learn the basic phrases eg. Learn how to ask directions, communicate with street vendors, ask for help etc. Doing this will help you come closer to the locals even become friends with them.

Make your space at home like the one before

Decorate and furnish your home in such a way that it reminds you of your older place. Light up your place that way. If you’re into reading, then have a book shelf built the same way as you did. All these things will make you less homesick.

Push yourself to make new friends

If you have local friends, then nothing like it. You should try to see the place through their eyes. They can also easily answer all the questions you have about their culture and might share some more insights too.

Engage in a routine

Spend your time doing something productive. Make it a routine. Take a course or join a club. Go swimming, play tennis or join music or art class. This is again a great way to meet new people with common interests and make friends.

Join a Club

This is a great way to find people of the same interest. Once you join the club a meetup can be easily be arranged where like-minded people can engage and get along with each other. You’ll find all sorts of clubs like a book club, trekking club, etc. Look out for meetups in and near your city.

Join the expat community

This is probably the first thing an expat should do to reunite with others who are going through or have gone through a similar situation. Although, meeting people from the same country may go against you embracing the new culture. But, if you’re really frustrated with this major change, then you should go ahead meeting them.

These are a few ways to overcome culture shock.

Choose Writer Relocations for stress-free Orientation Services. 
For 63 years, Writer Relocations has been helping all types of businesses move safely and without stress.That simply means that with our move planning, specialty moving services, and packing acumen, you are assured fuss-free moves.

You deserve the experience and expertise of Move Advisors for Area Orientation Services at Writer Relocations. Why would you think of settling for less?

Speak to a Pre-move Orientation Services Expert from Writer Relocations today.

If you have your own experiences in dealing with culture shock, do let us know in the comments section below.

Relocating an office is probably more complicated than moving homes. There are many things to consider to ensure a successful move, including office furnishings, supplies, and even the employees that must be organised and settled.

Whether your business is moving across the region or abroad, a poorly managed office move can be a huge headache, not just for you, but also your employees and even your clients. This is especially true if you choose to do office relocations during peak season.

To ensure a successful business relocation during peak season, here are five tips you must remember.

1. Start planning your relocation early

Time is a critical factor when moving your business during peak season, so you must act early. Advanced planning can eliminate the unnecessary hassle and help streamline logistics.

If you put off attending things, even the tiniest details, until the last minute, you may end up running out of time for organising the move, or paying more for removal companies.

But if you have a detailed relocation plan outlining how and when each task must be performed, and how much every aspect of the move will cost, you can significantly save money and time. Most importantly, it will ensure a smooth office move.

Give yourself three to six months to put together a clear and concise relocation plan. Evaluate the things that should be moved and decide on the items that can be securely eliminated and donated. Though some establishments can accept used office furniture, you can’t assume they can coordinate rush pick-ups to suit your moving schedule. The same is true when securing the disposal of electronic devices.

2. Find a removal company and book a date ASAP

Relocating your office during the peak moving season means movers are in demand. Make sure to choose a reliable mover and pick a moving date that works best for you.

Getting an office removal company on board early will also ensure that there will be no hidden or extra costs to pay. For instance, you may pay more if the movers charge extra for packing and moving delicate office equipment. Though it might be worth paying extra to ensure the safety of the item, you still need to factor these things into your cost assessment so you can include them in your budget.

Do not risk working with mediocre removal companies. Instead, prioritise finding the best and schedule your move date early.

3. Take inventory of all items

Taking inventory is a must when relocating. You need to include all the equipment and supplies you have on your business premises. Compile all files and papers you will need in the future and make a list of those as well. You don’t want to lose anything relevant, so create a detailed list and take this seriously.

Having a list of all equipment, documents and supplies will also guide the relocation company in providing you with a reliable quote. More importantly, it will help ensure that nothing will get lost or damaged during transit.

4. Delegate moving tasks

An office relocation is not a solo endeavour, but rather an entire company’s affair. Assign tasks to employees or teams. For instance, ask a number of your workers to complete the inventory while the others purchase packing materials or other items you need for your move.

As for tasks that need proficiency, delegate them to competent workers. For instance, let the IT department deal with tech-related matters, and those in the administrative sector can prepare all the necessary documentation.

Delegating jobs will reduce your workload and guarantee an organised move. It will also ease employee tension because they are involved in the relocation process and know firsthand what is taking place.

Make sure to be clear and loud about everyone’s tasks, including the deadlines. As you assign tasks, it would also be great to get input from your employees regarding the changes they want for their new space, and make an effort to acknowledge staff needs in planning and designing your new business location.

5. Be mindful of essential documents and deadlines

Generally, vendors will require different documents and set varying timelines. Make sure to keep a list of each one’s specific requirements because failing to meet the deadline or missing paperwork can hold up timelines and relocation services.

Moreover, most key actions can only be taken after completing preparatory steps, so make sure that everyone adheres to the expected timeline milestones to keep the office move running smoothly.

Moving a business, regardless of whether it is a small or large one, is not easy since it involves handling numerous supplies, bulky and fragile equipment, and essential documentation. But if you plan well and aim to include your employees throughout the relocation process, you’ll be back in business in no time.

At Writer Relocations, we can minimise the stress by tackling your move because it is our area of expertise. Our experienced packers and movers can relocate your business, supplies, equipment, and people hassle-free. From planning the office shifting process to managing the office move, you can trust us. Get in touch with us today to learn more about our high-quality corporate relocation services.

Today’s quick access to information makes it possible for people to discover and learn more about foreign countries and cultures. It is now easier to know the best country to go to if you want to experience living in another place or seek greener pastures or both.

Whatever your reason is, if you’re considering a move, research is key to ensure you choose the ideal country to go to.

Your destination should allow you to work in the industry you want. It also pays to know beforehand the living costs you can expect and how far your money will go in your possible new home.

Lastly, you also have to ensure that you’ll have access to good-quality services and facilities, including healthcare, education, and transportation, so you are assured you’ll have everything you need to have a pleasant and safe lifestyle in your new home.

As the leading destination services provider and international moving company, we recommend prioritising these factors so that you can find the best country where you can have a better life and experience success in your career.

Most Recommended Destinations for Expats to Live and Work In

Based on our research, we have compiled below a list of the five best countries to live and work in:

1. Canada

The second largest country in the world has always been a popular destination for expats, particularly those with families, looking for a more comfortable life and better career opportunities.

Canada provides free universal healthcare, which is one of the best and most inclusive in the world, to all permanent residents and dependents.

For years, Canada has been one of the top countries to receive a state education. Public secondary education is also free for all permanent residents and their families.

Most people living here are also happy with their work-life balance. There are sufficient career opportunities that can help fuel your professional growth and advancement.

Canada is one of the most liberal and progressive nations. Because of this, it is an excellent place to live in regardless of your background.

The cost of living in Canada is also fairly reasonable, with certain cities having lower rates than others.

Lastly, the country is one of the greenest worldwide and has low levels of air pollution. There is a high degree of public safety here as well.

These factors make Canada one of the best places to move to and live in.

2. Germany

Constantly on the top ten list of countries with the highest gross domestic product or GDP, Germany is the ideal destination for professionals who want to work abroad.

The country is one of the biggest business and commercial hubs in Europe, meaning there are plenty of employment opportunities for both locals and expats.

Germany also has an enriching and welcoming culture and incomparable work-life balance, with employees working around 27 hours every week on average.

Working and living in Germany also means you’ll have access to first-rate healthcare and substantial paid leaves.

The cost of living in Germany can be higher than what you’re used to. However, you will find that prices are more reasonable here than in many other European nations.

If you want to work and live in a country that offers the perfect balance of innovation and tradition, Germany is your best option.

3. Norway

In 2017, Norway was ranked as the happiest country in the world. Although it hasn’t taken back this title, it is still always in Condé Nast’s top 10 list every year.

Because of this reason, putting Norway on your list of destinations is a great idea.

The country’s healthcare system is undoubtedly one of the best in the world, which is why it ranks high in long life expectancy worldwide. Education at all levels is also highly competitive here.

Norway also stands out as one of the countries with low income inequality. Although the cost of living here may be a bit higher, you can expect a good quality of life regardless of what you’re earning.

At present, Norway is working towards expanding hydropower, digital services, and tourism, which means foreign expertise is constantly in demand.

Norway is also progressive and welcoming of foreigners, which means you can expect a safe, comfortable, and quiet life here.

4. Switzerland

The alpine country of Switzerland offers a high standard of living coupled with exciting employment packages and a high standard of living.

On average, unemployment here is low, making it one of the ideal destinations for expats.

Like the other European countries on this list, the cost of living here may be higher than you might expect. However, the high average income ensures you can live comfortably here on your earnings.

Switzerland also upholds the best standards in healthcare, which is crucial for your wellness and overall feeling of safety and security in a foreign country.

The country is also competitive in terms of the quality of education at all levels.

Switzerland is also one of the most beautiful countries in the world, replete with stunning lakes, mountains, and other natural attractions. It is a great place for nature-lovers to live in.

5. United Arab Emirates

The UAE has always been a favourite destination for people from different parts of the world seeking greener pastures.

But aside from the high income and ideal work-life balance, this country is full of employment opportunities that you will likely get a job you like and experience career advancement throughout your stay here.

The UAE is also known for its openness to diverse cultures and views, making it the ideal place for expats looking for a new home overseas.

The cost of living in the UAE is reasonable and you can live comfortably here on your income. It also provides good working environments, suitable accommodations, and different options for raising children.

As a well-established relocation company in Dubai, we can attest to the fact that these reasons make the UAE a popular destination for expats from different parts of the world.

We hope that with this list, you can narrow down your options for countries to move to.

You can also get in touch with our team if you need advice or more information to decide where you can live and work abroad.

Relocating an office is probably more complicated than moving homes. There are many things to consider to ensure a successful move, including office furnishings, supplies, and even the employees that must be organised and settled.

Whether your business is moving across the region or abroad, a poorly managed office move can be a huge headache, not just for you, but also your employees and even your clients. This is especially true if you choose to do office relocations during peak season.

To ensure a successful business relocation during peak season, here are five tips you must remember.

1. Start planning your relocation early

Time is a critical factor when moving your business during peak season, so you must act early. Advanced planning can eliminate the unnecessary hassle and help streamline logistics.

If you put off attending things, even the tiniest details, until the last minute, you may end up running out of time for organising the move, or paying more for removal companies.

But if you have a detailed relocation plan outlining how and when each task must be performed, and how much every aspect of the move will cost, you can significantly save money and time. Most importantly, it will ensure a smooth office move.

Give yourself three to six months to put together a clear and concise relocation plan. Evaluate the things that should be moved and decide on the items that can be securely eliminated and donated. Though some establishments can accept used office furniture, you can’t assume they can coordinate rush pick-ups to suit your moving schedule. The same is true when securing the disposal of electronic devices.

2. Find a removal company and book a date ASAP

Relocating your office during the peak moving season means movers are in demand. Make sure to choose a reliable mover and pick a moving date that works best for you.

Getting an office removal company on board early will also ensure that there will be no hidden or extra costs to pay. For instance, you may pay more if the movers charge extra for packing and moving delicate office equipment. Though it might be worth paying extra to ensure the safety of the item, you still need to factor these things into your cost assessment so you can include them in your budget.

Do not risk working with mediocre removal companies. Instead, prioritise finding the best and schedule your move date early.

3. Take inventory of all items

Taking inventory is a must when relocating. You need to include all the equipment and supplies you have on your business premises. Compile all files and papers you will need in the future and make a list of those as well. You don’t want to lose anything relevant, so create a detailed list and take this seriously.

Having a list of all equipment, documents and supplies will also guide the relocation company in providing you with a reliable quote. More importantly, it will help ensure that nothing will get lost or damaged during transit.

4. Delegate moving tasks

An office relocation is not a solo endeavour, but rather an entire company’s affair. Assign tasks to employees or teams. For instance, ask a number of your workers to complete the inventory while the others purchase packing materials or other items you need for your move.

As for tasks that need proficiency, delegate them to competent workers. For instance, let the IT department deal with tech-related matters, and those in the administrative sector can prepare all the necessary documentation.

Delegating jobs will reduce your workload and guarantee an organised move. It will also ease employee tension because they are involved in the relocation process and know firsthand what is taking place.

Make sure to be clear and loud about everyone’s tasks, including the deadlines. As you assign tasks, it would also be great to get input from your employees regarding the changes they want for their new space, and make an effort to acknowledge staff needs in planning and designing your new business location.

5. Be mindful of essential documents and deadlines

Generally, vendors will require different documents and set varying timelines. Make sure to keep a list of each one’s specific requirements because failing to meet the deadline or missing paperwork can hold up timelines and relocation services.

Moreover, most key actions can only be taken after completing preparatory steps, so make sure that everyone adheres to the expected timeline milestones to keep the office move running smoothly.

Moving a business, regardless of whether it is a small or large one, is not easy since it involves handling numerous supplies, bulky and fragile equipment, and essential documentation. But if you plan well and aim to include your employees throughout the relocation process, you’ll be back in business in no time.

At Writer Relocations, we can minimise the stress by tackling your move because it is our area of expertise. Our experienced packers and movers can relocate your business, supplies, equipment, and people hassle-free. From planning the office shifting process to managing the office move, you can trust us. Get in touch with us today to learn more about our high-quality corporate relocation services.