How to Answer: Are you willing to relocate?

A job interview includes different questions related to the job profile, salary, and even relocation! Often we see interviewers asking the question, “Are you willing to relocate?” during a job interview if the applicant is from another place. They may ask about the availability to move during the initial screening process or further in the interview process.

This question most commonly arises in situations when a candidate, if hired, they would require to move between job sites or offices. It is a mandatory question for professions where relocation will be required. Some companies cover the relocation expenses of the candidate, while others have a relocation policy or a negotiable package. 

This is a tricky job interview question that requires a proper phrased answer. If the applicant has the flexibility to relocate, the response will work to their advantage in both getting the job and negotiating the job relocation package if carefully phrased. This question also helps to recruit managers narrow down candidates who are considered for hire. Mostly, candidates who are willing and enthusiastic about relocating to a new place for their job creates the best impression. When the recruiter questions the candidates about the willingness to relocate for a new job, they want to know about the concessions they’ll need to provide for the relocation. These concessions may include salary, benefits, relocation cost reimbursement, temporary housing, spousal assistance, signing bonuses, new home assistance, and cash allowance.

When this question arises, it is better to keep the following points in mind to answer it.  

• Be honest: Always be honest with yourself and the interviewer. If you have any doubts about whether you will be able to relocate, then that job might not be for you. 
• Capitalize on the opportunity: Use the willingness to relocate as a bright “selling point” in support of the candidacy. With the dramatic increase in telecommuting and remote work opportunities, people are less interested in relocating. Emphasizing one’s availability and enthusiasm for relocation will help you be apart from the other applicants.
• Never underestimate the power of “Maybe”: If you aren’t 100% positive about your willingness to relocate, it’s an excellent strategy to offer that you might consider the relocation. Be sincere in discussing concerns about relocation as you may have legitimate worries about the cost of living. Recruiting managers who are interested in you as a potential candidate will respond well and may also suggest accommodations.
• Practice answers: Keep in mind that the relocation question may be asked. Frame an answer ready in mind ahead of time and get someone to conduct a mock interview with that question in the list.
• Express interest: Create an excellent response to demonstrate your enthusiasm for joining the organization. Express your willingness to know more about the organization, the employer’s needs, expectations, and operations.

What Not to Say

Always avoid the following when answering the ‘are you willing to relocate’ question.

• Never say never: If you are not sure about relocation, try not to make it sound like that it would always be a ‘no.’ If there’s any possibility of you relocating in the future, mention that in the interview.
• Don’t give too many personal details: The interviewer doesn’t need to know every detail about why you are hesitant about relocating. Let them know about a “family obligation” or “present life situation” that may make relocation challenging.  
• Don’t criticize the present situation: If you are looking for a relocation because you want to escape to a new town sooner to avoid the present environment, don’t share it with the recruiter. Instead, highlight the opportunities that relocating would bring to you rather than letting them know about the multiple reasons you got out of town.

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