“Are you willing to relocate?” question can be a deal-breaker for your interview. Have you ever thought of what to answer to this question? If you directly answer no, do you know if you can still get the job or do you really need to make a major life change in order to get the job you want? Read below and find out how to answer this tricky interview question.
If Your Answer is Yes: If you absolutely want to relocate, say yes. Don’t say yes just to impress the interviewer. Most recruiters expect that you answer yes to this question, even if they are not going to send you to another location. However, say yes only if you can stay true to your word. Maybe, the company is not planning to send you anywhere near soon but they may want to see, if you are open to changes. Also, some companies require international work experience in order to promote you to a managerial level so they may want to check, if you can move up the career ladder and fulfill this requirement. Answering yes shows that you want to be part of the company and you can accomplish the challenges that are thrown at you.
If Your Answer is Maybe: You are willing to relocate but under certain conditions. Maybe, you can relocate for a temporary assignment for 6 months to a year, but you don’t want to stay more than a year. Or you want to only relocate within the US and don’t want to relocate internationally. Therefore, if your answer is maybe, you can say that if this opportunity will enhance your career, you will consider it. Then, you can ask your questions about the relocation. Considering something is not a certain yes or no answer. Thus, it will give you enough room to evaluate the positives and negatives when you are faced with the relocation offer.
If Your Answer is No: If you don’t want to relocate or cannot relocate in under any circumstances, let the recruiter know stating your reasons. Make sure you have sensible reasons. Never say if you pay me more, I can change my decision or I only relocate if you let me choose the location. You can specify areas like Europe or West Coast but then, still you need to show a valid reason. For example, “I like the area where I live now but I would like to be a part of this company and if there is an opportunity for me to move to Europe, I would certainly consider it because I have family there.” Another answer is “Well, I would very much like to join this company but I cannot say anything about relocation right now because I have to talk it with my family first before making my decision.” Always try to leave the door open.
