How to Become a Relocation Specialist in Maryland
- 1). Take an entry-level position in the human resources office of a large company with a Maryland office that offers employee relocation programs. Most often, a company’s HR department handles employee relocation assistance. In an entry-level position, you will learn the organization’s relocation policy and procedures, contract and build relationships with regional and national moving companies and corporate relocation vendors, such as Prudential, and handle administration tasks.
- 2). Become an expert on Maryland’s cities, geography, neighborhoods, school systems, culture, transportation and other factors that those relocating to Maryland may want to know. If you are not from Maryland, ask those who are from the area to give you information. Visit Maryland cities near your company’s offices to seek out desirable neighborhoods and get an understanding of the average cost of living and taxes in different Maryland regions.
- 3). Obtain designation as a certified relocation professional (CRP). You must meet eligibility criteria such as two years of corporate relocation experience or membership with the Worldwide Employee Relocation Council, also known as Worldwide ERC. Take and pass the CRP examination, held annually each May. Certification will establish your creditability as relocation specialists as a job seeker, with your employer and with those you are helping to relocate.
- 4). Join the Greater Washington Employee Relocation Council, which covers the Washington, D.C., and Maryland regions. As a corporate relocation specialist, you may not need to pay for membership. The GWERC holds membership meetings giving you the opportunity to network with peers, learn and discuss issues and trends regarding relocation in Maryland and share knowledge about industry standards.
- 5). Take a job with a professional relocation vendor. Companies may outsource relocation services with a corporate relocation vendor, rather than administer the program in-house. As an employee of the vendor, you will work with your client to handle various aspects of each employee’s move such as packing and moving, expenses reimbursement, rentals, assistance in selling the employee’s current home and assistance in purchasing a new home in Maryland.
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