Happy New Year, SCRC!

Let me begin by expressing what an honor it has been to serve this amazing, dynamic group of professionals this past year. Your enthusiasm for the role you play in the relocation process – whether it be in the workplace or at relocation services supplier, your willingness to be open and to share experiences with your fellow SCRC members, and your support for our charitable efforts throughout 2011 has been inspiring.

Many of us are looking forward to 2012 with a tremendous amount of anticipation. Economic factors driving the need for relocation assistance remain encouraging; it was recently noted by the ERC that the hiring outlook for the U.S. appears to be the most promising since 2008. Their research indicates 14 percent of employers intend to add staff this first quarter of 2012.We can also point to the projections of the serviced apartment industry as a beacon of optimism. One leading industry report showed that serviced apartments out-performed their hotel counterparts in all key areas in 2011. This speaks to increased hiring of workforce and more business travel for current employees.

Although the reasons for confidence going into 2012 may be evident, the ever-evolving state of the workplace will continue to create challenges for our industry. Technology advances offer greater opportunities for face-to-face meetings from a distance and telecommuting, thus reducing the necessity for relocation in some situations. There will always be a need for our expertise in the business world but this highlights the need to identify those companies and industries that cannot replicate the advantages and efficiencies of relocating an employee, even temporarily, through the use of technology. Even the renewed optimism of the serviced apartment industry can be a mixed blessing for both suppliers and those on the corporate side of relocation who require the use of a furnished short term product. Indeed, creativity will be a prerequisite trait this year in many of our dealings with relocation assignees and new hires in need of relocation services, but it is a challenge this group is eminently prepared to meet and overcome. Our collective earned experiences and wisdom are indelible tools by which we can adapt with the changing needs of the global workforce, and do so while providing a breadth of customized services at the highest of levels.

So, give us all you got, 2012 – both the good and the bad, the influx of new relocation needs and the challenges that come with it. The professional men and women of the SCRC boast the talent, intelligence, experience and assertiveness to make this a truly special year!

Leisa M. Ross
President
SCRC
2011-2012