Negotiating relocation

Someone mentioned companies not even paying for interview expenses and that reminded me of a funny experience about a year and half ago. A sports editor invited me to come interview for a great gig in his department and it was a drive so I didn't think much about it. Looking back on it, it was quite odd because it was the most non-interview interview ever. His bosses met with me and we had great talks. The SE had promised before I made the trip that my mileage would be reimbursed and any meals for the day trip. It took a couple of months before I got the mileage check and was floored when I realized it was a personal check cut from the SE's account. I honestly felt bad and considered not even cashing the check but a couple of people I know said I should. But either he was not supposed to be interviewing me for the position or that newspaper company doesn't pay interview experiences. No surprise that position was never filled.

 

Wow. That's pretty horrible. Classy move on the SE, though.

 

Yeah, I thought so, too. That's why I wasn't mad at him once I realized he had me over to interview for a job he clearly didn't have the clearance to hire for yet.

 

I'd say that moving expenses/allowance should be 6-7% of your salary.

 

The thing was, my previous two employers had paid for moving expenses. It was the least they could do, and since they couldn't, they weren't worth working for.

 

First job. $250 reimbursement. 600 miles. Needed every nickel.

Second job. $500 reimbursement. Took out a payday loan to pay for it. 600 miles.

Third job. $1,400. 150 miles.

Fourth job. $2,600. 150 miles back.

Fifth job. Up to $6,000 plus a month in a nice hotel. 250 miles. The move itself was $3500 and I think I stayed five nights before getting a place.