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Centre Val de Loire Professional mobility Preparing your mobility Territories Tours

Moving to the Centre Val de Loire: a land of art and history

Moving to the Centre Val de Loire: a land of art and history

Moving to the Centre Val de Loire means taking advantage of the magnificent châteaux of the Loire and a great heritage of art and history. Characterised by its gentle way of life and its dynamic employment area, the Centre Val de Loire region will undoubtedly seduce you! 

Why the Centre Val de Loire?

Based on a compilation from public dataand supplemented by feedback from newcomers supported by the platform, the "Bien-vivre" tool offers numerical data on 11 criteria. According to the Bien-Vivre tooltool, the Centre Val de Loire region has a number of assets that attract more and more mobile people. Living in this region allows people to reconcile their professional and personal lives while enjoying a pleasant living environment and a more serene life.

Ideally located 1 hour south of Paris, the Centre Val de Loire region combines quality of life and a dynamic economic area. The region owes its reputation to the quality of its land and its rich cultural heritage. Its varied and preserved landscapes as well as the richness of its history contribute to the attractiveness of the region, particularly in terms of tourism.

The labour market, employment and income

In the Centre-Val de Loire, there are three employment areas: in the north of the region, the labour market is driven by trade with the Paris basin. The Loire axis, with Orléans and Tours, is the most dynamic area in the region. Finally, the last employment area is located in Berry.

The region attracts international companies, in particular thanks to its location as a crossroads in the region and its proximity to the capital. The leaders in IT and logistics offer many jobs to be filled each year. Orléans is also the leading pharmaceutical centre in France. The Centre Val de Loire is also the 1stThe Centre Val de Loire is also France's and Europe's leading cereal-growing region.

Quality of life

The environment

What would the region be without telling you aboutits many châteaux and vineyards? Its environment, in the heart of the land, allows you to spend a weekend visiting its famous châteaux, cycling along the paths of the Loire. The cradle of the Kingdom of France, the Centre-Val de Loire is home to some of the most prestigious châteaux in France: Chambord, the château of François I, Chenonceau, Chantilly, Villandry and its gardens, the Clos Lucé, where Leonardo da Vinci lived...

The Centre Val de Loire is also the 3rd largest wine-producing region in France, and the 1st for white wines (Chinon, Touraine...) Historically, the departments of the Centre-Val de Loire were formed from three historical provinces: Orléanais (Loiret, Eure-et-Loir, Loir-et-Cher); Berry (Cher and Indre) and Touraine (Indre-et-Loire). Its historical and cultural heritage welcomes an average of 9 million tourists every year. The medium-sized towns and local centres play a major role in the balance of the region and preserve this quality environment.

The Loire Valley has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000. Along the Loire, you will find a variety of landscapes, as well as a rich biodiversity throughout the area, which is shared with the Pays de la Loire region.

Education and health

In terms of education, student life is lively. The Universities of Orléans and Tours have the most students. 

The region is also ideal for families: there are many dedicated infrastructures, such as more than 300 crèches and childcare centres, and many secondary schools. The health sector is also very well established, with major hospitals and a good density of general practitioners. It has also invested in multidisciplinary health centres and health centres. and in Health Centres.

The community

The region is festive throughout the year. Concerts, shows and festivals are organised all year round. The most famous of these is the Printemps de Bourges, an annual musical event. The international music festival of Sully sur Loire and Orléans Jazz keep the inhabitants of the region dancing. Orléans also has a Zénith which hosts numerous concerts and shows.

 Discover Sophie and Sybille, Switch Up ambassadors in Tours. They will be delighted to welcome you in their beautiful city.

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Services and security

For the services, important transport networks facilitate the life of the inhabitants: motorways, numerous trains and well-developed urban networks. Obviously, its location plays a role in this developed rail and road network.
In terms of commercial services, the cities of Tours and Orléans offer a wide range of shopping facilities, but also small local shops such as supermarkets and bakeries.

Housing

Characterised by its gentle way of life, newcomers to the Centre Val de Loire will be able to take advantage of numerous properties at attractive prices . The property market in the Centre-Val de Loire region is favourable to people who wish to settle there. There is a wide range of accommodation on offer.

It should be noted, however, that the two capital cities, Tours and Orléans, saw property prices rise by an average of 5% and 3% respectively in 2020. This increase is favoured by the Covid 19. The cities of Châteauroux, Blois, Bourges or Chartres seem more attractive in terms of prices.

Are you moving to the Centre Val de Loire?

Switch Up can help you set up your business in the Loire Valley.

The 5 cities where to settle in Centre Val de Loire

If you've decided to move to the Centre Val de Loire, all that's left to do is take action! To help you, here is a selection of 5 towns where it is good to live in the region, to help you find your ideal place to live!

Towers

It is impossible to talk about the Centre Val de Loire region without mentioning the beautiful city of Tours. This city benefits from a strategic position on the French territory, at 1h20 of TGV of Paris and at the doors of the West. Its strong economic dynamism attracts many French people who choose to settle in Tours every year. A town on a human scale, enjoying its proximity to Paris, Tours is attracting more and more families looking for a place to settle. However, the demand is still high and properties are going quickly. The property market in Tours remains accessible.

It is an ideal place to live with your family, with a pleasant environment and a dynamic lifestyle. In Tours, life is gentler and Tourangeaux take the time to have lunch in the city centre brasseries. In terms of urban planning, the city is distinguished first and foremost by the old buildings in the old part of Tours, including several half-timbered houses, and by its large green spaces.

Only an hour and a half from Paris on average, Orléans is above all a city with a green environment. It is the perfect balance between town and country.

From the centre of Orleans, walk or cycle along the Loire and you will be in the heart of true nature in less than 15 minutes. The city offers a privileged gateway to the Loire and more generally to the cultural and tourist assets of the wider region.

One immediately thinks of the chateaux of the Loire Valley (Chambord, Cheverny, Chenonceau...) which can be visited by car, by bike or on foot...

Blois

Moving to Blois means taking advantage of all the benefits of a big city, without the drawbacks: culture, sports, leisure, nature, shops... all within walking distance, without traffic or parking problems.

You will appreciateits remarkable living environment, its natural landscapes, its banks of the Loire, its architectural and natural heritage, its parks... Between Tours and Orléans, it benefits from an ideal position: between Paris and the Pays de la Loire.

Reassuring in terms of tranquillity and living environment, cities of this size attract a good number of families. Prices are of course very affordable.

 Bourges attracts newcomers for its authenticity and calm. Many French families move here every year. Often described as an extremely charming and engaging town, it has an exceptional heritage, notably with its pretty historic centre, lined with timber-framed houses that are still visible. Bourges Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its parks and gardens allow you to live in the city, but with greenery and fresh air, ideal for families for example.

The city hosts a beautiful music festival: the Printemps de Bourges. The inhabitants are particularly welcoming andthe town has a feeling of security. The advantages of a medium-sized town are also numerous: comprehensive sports facilities but also a strong community life. Rents are also very affordable.

Châteauroux

In the heart of the Berry province, Châteauroux is rich inhistorical heritage. The city is a real treasure of the region. Its pleasant living environment is oriented towards nature.

Living in Châteauroux means above all taking advantage of the dynamism of a town on a human scale. Festivals, open-air walks, gourmet markets in the Berry region... The living environment is really pleasant.

Located in the Centre-Val de Loire region and the Indre department, Châteauroux is a crossroads between Tours, Bourges, Poitiers, Limoges and Orléans: these cities are all between 1 and 2 hours away by car. This is an important criterion that confirms the agglomeration's openness on a national scale.

Special mention for the Indre et Loire department, with its Switch Up by Tours Loire Valley platform . Tours Loire Valley relies on networked hospitality thanks to its many hosts. They make it easier for newcomers to settle in and integrate in Touraine.

So, have you decided? The Centre Val de Loire region is for you?

Switch Upwill support you in your installation through our local network of Ambassadors. Our ambassadors will be happy to help you with administrative procedures, finding accommodation, schools, discovering the area or integrating. Our ambassadors from Tours will be able to share with you all the information you need to settle in the Centre Val de Loire!

Categories
Candidate experience Professional mobility Preparing your mobility

The accompanying spouse, undergone or chosen mobility?

The accompanying spouse, undergone or chosen mobility?

Your spouse has accepted a position in a new city and as a result you have to move too. Whether you have been forced to move or have chosen to do so, it will in any case bring you probable questions, and perhaps even fears.

You will have to go through the famous change curve. The mobility of the accompanying spouse can be difficult. We explain...

The mobility of the accompanying spouse: an observation.

According to a study by expat communication 92% of accompanying spouses are women. In order to draw up a typical profile of the accompanying spouse in mobility, we can also base ourselves on age. Thus, 59% of accompanying spouses are between 30 and 44 years old. However, one might think that young working people are more likely to be mobile, but only 8% of accompanying spouses are under 30.

Prior to departure, 73% of accompanying spouses have a full-time job. Spouses are mostly looking for a job when their partner starts a new job.

Most of the spouses will return to work in the same line as their previous position. The other part retrain, mostly in teaching-related jobs. 30% decide to take the plunge and become entrepreneurs or self-employed.

In ¼ of the cases, finding a new job is quick, the average being around 5 months.

Regarding the mobility decision, 90% of women state that the mobility decision is a joint one. When the decision to move is more likely to be motivated by one of the couple, 70% of men say they have made the decision to move, compared to 52% of women. 

The feeling of sacrifice is still very much present among accompanyingspouses who sometimes put aside their own aspirations at the time of departure, whether they are personal or professional. A total of 33% of accompanying spouses admit to having sacrificed their own career to put their spouse's career first.

3 tips to make it work

♦ Anticipation

Anticipating mobility is an essential element of good preparation. It allows the couple or family members to take mobility into consideration. Thus, they will feel more serene as they approach it. Communication is the key: listen to the different points of view. Indeed, the wishes of the mobile employee may not be those of his or her spouse. You can make a list of pros and cons. Also think of a list of positive things that this mobility can bring to both of you. You should also think about the fact that the partner who follows the other is the one who is most at a loss: how will this affect his or her work?

For example, for some people it will be better to leave their job when their spouse takes up work elsewhere. This way, you will not be separated and can continue your research on the spot. Others prefer to finish their contract from a distance while they find a new job. You also have the option of taking unpaid leave, parental leave or a contractual separation. This will prevent you from resigning, which can complicate the transition between your previous professional life and that of today and tomorrow. For smooth mobility, the couple must listen to each other and support each other: the support of their partner is essential.

♦ Location

Where are you going to live? Perhaps in a big city for a promotion, or on the contrary in a provincial town to move away. But what does your partner want? Make sure you communicate your choice of new region. If your partner is looking for work, the employment area will be an essential criterion for him/her.

In addition, most mobile people are looking for a better quality of life, with a quality of life and an environment environment. You may have to compromise between your different aspirations. It's a long-term project that requires thought, organisation and input from everyone involved if you're moving as a family.

Our Bien Vivre tool allows to value regions on job ads thanks to 11 differentcriteria that are essential in the process of choosing a new region. For example education could be an important factor if you are moving with your children.

Want to know more about Bien Vivre?

See our dedicated page.

♦ Accompaniment

Being accompanied in the mobility process is an unavoidable solution for a successful arrival. In the context of the mobility imposed on the accompanying spouse, it allows for a contact person.

Having someone on the spot, a local resident, a contact person, makes it easier to settle in and integrate.
Switch Up offers unique and personalised support through its network of ambassadors. They support you in your mobility on different topics such as housing search, registering your children at school, administrative procedures but also in the job search for the accompanying spouse.

This can be a real advantage: if you get caught up in packing or organising your day-to-day life once you are there, the help of an ambassador will be welcome.

Psychology of mobility of the accompanying spouse

♦ All change is grief

The grieving process is about all losses experienced in the course of life. It also concerns professional mobility, moving and changing jobs.

The different stages of mourning can be compared to the different phases of expatriation, which we can generalise to the phases of changing residence. 

The "grief curve" is the natural process that the person in question goes through when faced with a sudden change in their professional and/or personal life. Of course, the process will be different for everyone, and will take a different time, but will also produce different reactions.

Moving house, changing region or city is often a heartbreaker: 76% of French people see it as a major source of stress. These are moments of uncertainty and uncertainty. It is not easy to close the door on your past. There is inevitably a destabilisation of people on the move. "You have to deconstruct one place in order to reconstruct another.

The arrival without a job is also a source of stress because in addition to the search, which can be long, there is also a new environment to get used to, new things to learn depending on the region.

The first stage is shock, or denial of change. Then comes a new situation, awareness. 

And it is at this point, usually at the bottom of the curve, and once the fear or discomfort is felt, that the transformation takes place and allows the person to accept and adapt to the change (in this case the move or change of region). 

The last stage of the process is involvement, integration, and also serenity. It is the completion of the change process. The accompanying spouse will have achieved mobility and integration.

♦ Testimony of an expatriate

Here is the audio testimony of Gabrielle R., who accompanied her spouse to New Caledonia for several years. She talks about the phases she went through and how this expatriation experience allowed her to find new aspirations.

By calling on Switch Up, you can make the accompanying spouse's mobility a success. Thanks to our local ambassadors, finding accommodation and social integration will be easier. 

Categories
Professional mobility New Aquitaine Preparing your mobility Territories

Settling in New Aquitaine: in the heart of the vineyards, near the dunes

Settling in New Aquitaine, in the heart of the vineyards, near the dunes

Miles of beach, the proximity of the Pyrenees, acres of nature.... New Aquitaine opens its doors to you and invites you to come and settle in the region. Discover the region from all angles (employment, quality of life, housing, income...) Moving to New Aquitaine means living between dunes and vineyards!

Why New Aquitaine?

Our 'Living Well' tool is based on public data on regional on regional well-being. It is also supplemented by feedback from newcomers supported by the platform. Thus, it provides you with figures on 11 predefined criteria. According to Bien-VivreAccording to Bien-Vivre, New Aquitaine is attractive to many people on the move, especially those from the Paris region. Moving to New Aquitaine allows you to reconcile your professional and personal life. And in addition, to benefit from a pleasant living environment and a more serene life. The growth of its population, particularly marked on the coast, makes it one of the most attractive areas in France. The region is ahead of the Ile-de-France and Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur in terms of demographic dynamism.

The labour market, employment and income

The Nouvelle-Aquitaine region has twelve departments. It is characterised by the preponderance of its agricultural and forestry employment (1st European agricultural region). It is positioned in the agri-food, aeronautics and space, wood and paper industries.

Its economy is therefore based on agriculture and viticulturewith the vineyards of Bordeaux and Cognac. Its industrial sector is notably very efficient. There are also powerful aeronautical, space and pharmaceutical industries.

Niort is the fourth largest financial centre in France. The city is known for its numerous mutual insurance companies. The Gironde, with Bordeaux, concentrates a majority of the active population and therefore of employment. The Atlantic Pyrenees, with the city of Pau, is not to be outdone. The department is closely followed by Charente Maritime, notably with the dynamic employment area of La Rochelle. Moreover, the regional council of New Aquitaine is the one that invests the most in innovation and research. The region's research potential is based on its 5 universities (Bordeaux, Limoges, La Rochelle, Pau and Poitiers) and its Grandes Écoles.

Quality of life

The environment

Having both the mountains and the ocean nearby is a luxury that many French people do not have, except for the people of Aquitaine! The proximity of the Pyrenees and the ocean offers the possibility to go for a picnic on the beach after a day's work. You can also put on your skis for a few hours of skiing in the Pyrenees. This makes life softer and contributes to the exceptional quality of life in New Aquitaine. Life is less stressful, more peaceful. 

Aquitaine is the largest beach in Europe (with 250 km of sand). It is also the cradle of surfing in Europe, notably in Biarritz and Anglet. The Aquitaine coast has some of the most famous seaside resorts such as Arcachon, Biarritz or Royan.

And what would New Aquitaine be without telling you about its capital, Bordeaux? A large provincial city, it is attracting more and more new talent. Its pleasant living environment is combined with great professional opportunities.

In Charente-Maritime, you will be able to go from the Atlantic coast to the vineyards of the hinterland. Not forgetting its dynamic towns such as Royan, La Rochelle, or its small villages full of charm.

For a total disconnection, the Corrèze, the Dordogne or the Landes are territories that allow you to live close to nature and in an incredible living environment. The cities of Poitiers, Limoges and Niort allow you to live in medium-sized cities where the employment pool is also dynamic.

Education and health

The region is a major student centre, with several universities and grandes écoles*.

The 22 members of the Club des Grandes Écoles de Bordeaux Aquitaine are: Arts et Métiers Paristech Bordeaux, Bordeaux Sciences Agro, CESI Bordeaux, CESI Pau-Assat, EBABX, EISTI, ENM, ENSAP, ENSC, ENSCBP, ENSEIRB MATMECA, ENSGTI, ENSTBB, ESTIA, Groupe ESC Pau, IAE Bordeaux, IAE Pau-Bayonne, IPB, IEP, INSEEC, ISA BTP, KEDGE.

New Aquitaine is the third region in France in terms of education. In terms of health, the region is also well rated. This is due to the number of doctors present in relation to the number of inhabitants. Despite a marked difference between the different departments, the region has been able to find solutions to compensate for the low medical density. Examples include telemedicine and the delegation of certain consultations to pharmacists. 

The community

 The Aquitaine region produces products of exceptional quality: AOC meats, poultry, cheeses, vegetables. All of this cooked into delicious culinary specialities: the Aquitaine people have reason to be proud of their gastronomy. It is also the region of Jurançon, Bergerac, Bordeaux, Saint Emilion. Enough to delight wine lovers! It is around this gastronomy that you will be able to meet the neo-Aquitains.

First and foremost defined as inhabitants of the South West of France, they are epicureans and like to share.
Sport reinforces this feeling of belonging: rugby, football, water sports... Discover Sophie, Switch Up ambassador in La Rochelle . She will be delighted to welcome you in her beautiful city.

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Services and security

New Aquitaine is a region of transit between the Paris basin and the Iberian peninsula. This situation explains the development of major road axes. In addition, the Paris-Bordeaux-Toulouse-Spain high-speed line makes it possible to travel from Paris to Bordeaux in just 2 hours. 

Services are developed in the major cities such as Bordeaux, La Rochelle, Pau, Limoges. It is also a region where you feel safe!

Housing

Already very popular with many urbanites, the Bordeaux metropolis seems to be attracting even more customers since the deconfinement.

Moreover, Bordeaux remains the preferred city for executives wishing to leave Paris, according to the 2018 edition of the Cadremploi study

The Basque Country is also booming, having experienced an intense recovery. Local demand is also returning in the Landes. In Bergerac, in the Dordogne, demand has also exploded. But despite these increased demands following the confinements, property in New Aquitaine remains much more affordable than in the Paris region. The coast, Bordeaux and La Rochelle will still be more expensive than Limoges, Poitiers or towns less close to the sea. 

Attracting more and more people on the move, the Aquitaine region combines many sought-after criteria and makes its charm work. Its environment, its dynamic employment area, but also its quality of life make it the ideal region to settle down in !

The 5 cities where to settle in New Aquitaine

If you've been seduced by New Aquitaine, all that's left to do is to move there. To help you find your ideal place to live, Switch Up has put together a selection of 5 cities where life is good in the region! Many cities in the region offer a very pleasant living environment and therefore allow you to settle serenely in New Aquitaine.

Bordeaux

Thecapital of the Gironde and Aquitaine regions, Bordeaux is attracting more and more newcomers. It is a city on a human scale, it is airy and allows you to breathe! Life here is gentler and more peaceful than in other large cities in France. It's a lively city, particularly dynamic, where you can discover beautiful exhibitions or go and watch a football or rugby match with friends. Student life is very pleasant. The sea is easily accessible from Bordeaux and the city is lined with green spaces. Strolls along the Garonne River, passing in front of the Hôtel de Vie, testify to the quality of life in Bordeaux.

Accessible in only 2 hours from Paris, Bordeaux is perfectly situated for work, but also for a weekend away! Sectors such as services recruit a large number of employees in Bordeaux. This is particularly true for personal services and digital professions.

Limoges is a city on a human scale, characterised by its gentle way of life. Appreciated for its safety, the medium-sized city is known for its art and history. Visit its porcelain workshops and museums and stroll through the historic heart of the city, but also the surrounding area in a greener setting. It is a real little corner of paradise to live in with your family. Limoges also stands out from an economic point of view. Indeed, its unemployment rate is much lower than the national average. The cost of real estate is also lower than in its neighbours Poitiers and Bordeaux.

Poitiers

Poitiers is strategically located in the heart of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, 1 hour 15 minutes from Paris and 1 hour from Bordeaux! The city offers newcomers a warm welcome, diversity and mobility. As for the environment, the air quality is enviable. What makes Poitiers so special are its parks, especially the Parc de Blossac, its gardens and its small animal park, which will delight the youngest.Real estate is affordable and the unemployment rate is below the national average. The ideal location and quality of life of this beautiful French city attracts many people on the move; workers, researchers and students. Poitiers is therefore "the place to be" to realize all your projects!

Are you moving to New Aquitaine?

Be accompanied by Switch Up during your installation on the Aquitaine territory.

Often praised for its quality of life, Pau is a city that offers the economic and cultural advantages of a big city. But without the inconvenience of traffic jams or the cost of housing. Its location is ideal, at the foot of the Pyrenees, near Spain and just over two hours from Bordeaux. Accommodation is always affordable. It is a dynamic city, and the centre is very pleasant, surrounded by green spaces. Described as a lively but also quiet city, Pau offers many different activities, especially sports, where you feel relatively safe.

The pace of this town is in the image of the Béarn region: peaceful, local, values. In terms of employment, the digital and sustainable development sectors are to be found. It is the cradle of major companies in the aeronautics, chemical and food industries. 

La Rochelle

Living in La Rochelle means enjoying superb architecture and a town on a human scale. Everything is within walking distance, and there is of course the proximity of the sea and the good weather. The city centre is very attractive with its small shops, restaurants, and the feeling that people take time to live. The coastal paths and the walks and bike rides La Rochelle is the third largest city in France, with a population of over 1 million. La Rochelle is the 3rd city in the ranking of villages and cities where it is good to live. A major tourist destination, La Rochelle also stands out for its employment opportunities, its university, and its economic and commercial dynamism .

So, have you decided? The Aquitaine region is for you? Switch Upaccompanies you in your installation thanks to our local network of Ambassadors. Our Breton ambassadors will be delighted to welcome you, whether you are looking for administrative procedures, accommodation, schools, or to discover a new neighbourhood. Our Aquitaine ambassadors will be able to share their best practices with you, they are experts in the issue of moving to New Aquitaine.

Categories
Professional mobility Preparing your mobility Cities

Data calculation Living well

How are the territories rated?

Where people live is important for their well-being. The territorial quality of life is shaped by a multitude of factors (from educational provision to health, for example). The dimensions of this territorial quality of life are unique to each individual and change as our lives change. Our Living Well tool aims to enable candidates to work in the territory where it is good for them to live.

1 - Calculating the data

The ranking of territories, especially in the press, is a recurrent subject. It allows to highlight a specific criterion but it is difficult to have an overall view on their advantages and disadvantages, and this, as objectively as possible.

Each criterion is based on different scores in order to build a set of "Good Living" indicators that are comparable between territories. This benchmark is therefore built on a panel of indicators all coming from official sources:

Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development

Unions for the collection of social security and unemployment contributionsfamily allowances

Unions for the collection of social security and unemployment contributionsfamily allowances

BRRISE - Well-being, attractiveness of rural areas and socio-spatial inequalities

Our repository is also participatory as it is incremented by the feedback of the newcomers we support via our Switch Up platform.

2 - The scoring method includes 11 criteria

Income

Income is an important element of individual well-being as it enables people to meet their basic needs and other important life goals. It is also associated with quality of life, perceived social status and social connections.

Health

There are also strong regional disparities in health, which are partly explained by unequal access to health services. explained by unequal access to health services. However, access to health care is an important issue, especially in sparsely populated areas or for people with specific pathologies (long-term) or special needs (young children, the very elderly, etc.).

Security

Personal safety is the extent to which people feel safe in their daily lives. Objective data is of course used in the calculation of this criterion, but it is supplemented by the subjective feedback of our newcomers. As the feeling of safety is very personal, this criterion is a combination of both objective and comparable data and the feelings of local residents. This criterion should be analysed at the level of the catchment area in order to be interpreted as accurately as possible

Environment

The quality of the local environment has important effects on the well-being of future generations and residents. future generations and the inhabitants. Various aspects of environmental quality need to be included, such as water, waste, facilities, etc. They can be very different in the same area and certainly require a more local look at the catchment area.

Education

Education has many links to the attractiveness of the territory, such as employment and civic engagement. Moreover, it has been proven that education also has important long-term social effects on a territory that affect the overall productivity of places, reduce crime rates and increase the participation of the population in community life. For some regions, the industrial mix and a strong human capital base are strong drivers of attractiveness and competitiveness for employers.

Quality of life

Subjective well-being reflects the way people evaluate their lives. This criterion includes evaluations of life as a whole (usually referred to as 'life satisfaction'), evaluations of particular areas of life (e.g. 'satisfaction with time available for leisure'), feelings and emotions, as well as measures of how well we feel we are aligned with the goals we wish to achieve in life. This criterion is therefore the aggregation of several subjective measures.

Employment

Employment is another dimension of well-being that can have a significant impact on people's material conditions. Moreover, having a job helps people to maintain and develop their skills, and this affects other dimensions of well-being, such as health, connections and life satisfaction. Unequal access to employment is a major factor in interregional inequalities.

Civic engagement

Many of the policies that most directly affect people's lives are adopted at local level. The rate of participation of the local community in decision-making is an indication of the degree of trust that the community has in their representatives and an indicator of the participation of citizens in the political process but also more generally in their involvement in their local life.

Access to services

Accessibility of services is one of the key dimensions of well-being, affecting how people get what they need to satisfy their wants and needs. people get what they need to satisfy their wants and needs. Measuring service accessibility allows a better understanding of inequalities within communities and disparities between territories. If access to basic services (water, sanitation, electricity...) is a priori identical throughout the French national territory, access to advanced services (transport, health, ICT, daily shopping...) may be different from one territory to another.

Housing

In measuring well-being, housing is an important dimension. Adequate housing is one of the most basic human needs. Moreover, housing costs are often the largest component of household income. Housing is also strongly related to other dimensions of well-being, such as health, income and life satisfaction.

Community

Good interpersonal relationships, support from social networks and general trust in others and institutions are seen as important sources of individual well-being and social cohesion. Community is an additional resource to material and cultural resources, but can also improve the performance of institutions and serve the common good.

Categories
Professional mobility Preparing your mobility Cities

Seriously, you live in Ancenis?

Seriously, do you live in Ancenis?

When you start a business, you have to present your project many, many times.

My name is Gabrielle, I created Switch Up and my start-up often leads me to talk about employment and the attractiveness of territories.
Originally from Lille, I often illustrate my remarks with examples from the Great North but also with examples from my territory today, since I live in Ancenis... and there... I often get the following answer:

"Living in Ancenis? Seriously?"

At Switch Up, we make outlying territories rhyme with Attractiveness, we put the spotlight on local people especially when they are welcoming and we love to highlight your rack selfies.

So, I claim it loud and clear: You can have been brought up on chicory gratins and love Breton Fest-Noz.
You can dance the Rigodon in February and love living in La Roche Sur Yon.
But also love Abbey beers and live in St Gilles Croix de Vie.
Also rhyme with Estaminet and Plage de Porcé.
And finally know the secret of the Ch'tis fricadelle and know how to appreciate Ancenis Malvoisie wine

Yes...You can be a "Digital Entrepreneur" and live among the flowers.

In short, you'll have understood: I love the Ch'tis and the Pays d'Ancenis!
So it's too good an opportunity to share with you this beautiful infographic on the Pays d'Ancenis
to make you want to come and live in Ancenis, work there and settle there...

Categories
Ambassadors Preparing your mobility Rennes Accompanied testimony Territories

Au revoir, Paris: 5 questions to ask yourself before moving to another city.

Au revoir, Paris: The 5 big questions to ask yourself before changing cities.

Marie, 42 years old, Switch Up ambassadorambassador, tells us why she and her husband, well established professionally, made the choice to leave Paris with their three children. And why the choice of destination was not so simple, not to mention certain prejudices coming from the people around them... She will tell us about her experience and the different questions to ask before moving to another city.

The main questions to ask yourself before moving to another city

I have beenlivingin Paris for about fifteen years and it was clear that our life was no longer satisfying us. 

Our flat had become too small for our growing family, and we no longer wanted to endure the traffic jams, the aggressiveness, the stress, the pollution... the difficulty of getting out of Paris, even if only for a day or a weekend.

As much as we loved our city, it became urgent to move to improve our quality of life and regain our family balance.

Our criteria for making this change

The most important thing is that we needed space in our home: a bedroom for each child and an office for us parents (who are independent and therefore often work from home). We also wanted a less urban area, and a garden, why not? Having the possibility of going away for the weekend easily is a real plus. A healthy environment for the children, shops and schools nearby so that we don't have to use the car every time we travel, were also important criteria.

Also to fit in with our professional lives, the accommodation had to be within reasonable distance of Paris. After all, we would still have regular obligations there. With these criteria, obviously the perfect solution did not exist.

In accepting the compromises, 2 main options seemed to emerge...

1

Moving away from the centre of Paris but staying in the Paris region This was a way to gain in quality of life. But, while not changing too much our habits of Parisian life to which we were attached (professional environment, cultural outings, friends...)

2

Moving to the provinces It was a fresh start, with a better chance of meeting all our criteria. In addition, we were certain of gaining more space for a smaller budget. The only constraint was that we had to stay within reasonable distance of Paris...

The province often came up in our discussions. But, apart from the radical change of life, we were also sensitive to the critical view of our social circle and friends on this choice. For many people, leaving Paris meant leaving to bury themselves. "You're crazy, leaving Paris, but what's the big idea?", "And what are you going to do about the job?

We therefore had to overcome these preconceived ideas, which are nevertheless very present in the collective unconscious (or conscious?) of Paris. The exchange between us, weighing the pros and cons, was a very important step. Making lists, naming our deepest desires while remaining objective about the consequences, especially professional ones.

Before changing your life, the 5 big questions to ask yourself:

  1. Is my desire an escape or a life project?
  2. Identify my needs! What kind of lifestyle do I want to have?
  3. What are the limits to life change?
  4. Does my partner have the same desires as me? What do the children think?
  5. Am I ready to live away from my loved ones?

In the end, the balance tipped in favour of the province. In the end, we listened to ourselves: we wanted to make a real change and and give a new impetus to our lives ! After reflection, Rennes came out on top in our choice, notably for its optimal geographical location: 1 hour and 25 minutes from Paris thanks to the LGV and "only" 50 minutes from the sea!

Why choose Rennes?

1

Pleasant city, young, relaxed atmosphere.

2

Optimal geographical position.

2

The labour market is dynamic.

A few months later, it was on!

Today, we are very well settled in Rennes, integrated, and do not regret our choice at all, thanks to a new family and professional balance. We are proud to have had the courage to change our habits to meet our desires and essential needs.  

Long live mobility!

You can read Marie's testimony and the main questions to ask yourself when moving to another city. Are you moving for professional reasons? Would you like to be helped in your move and welcomed in your new home? Call on our ambassadors! They can help you discover the city. But also to find the house of your dreams, to carry out your administrativeprocedures... For more information, contact us or find us on www.switch-up.fr

This article was written by Marie J., who is at your service to assist you in your move to Rennes.

RENNES
Categories
Professional mobility Preparing your mobility

How do I choose my electricity subscription after moving?

Choosing an electricity subscription after moving house

Moving house takes a lot of time. Sometimes you don't have time to do all the things you'd like to do before the big day, especially when it comes to electricity or gas. But don't worry, you can still change your electricity subscription after your move. Here are some tips and tricks to help you make the switch. We'll help you choose your electricity subscription after your move.

Which electricity subscription should I choose?

It's not always easy to make sense of all the different electricity contracts that suppliers offer. Here are some tips for choosing the best subscription for your new home.

♦ Estimate your consumption on the websites of EDF, Engie, ekWateur and all other suppliers.

The first step in taking out a new electricity subscription is to estimate your consumption. The site fournisseur-énergie indicates that you can estimate your consumption on the sites of many suppliers such as EDF or Engie by clicking here.

Estimating your consumption is an important step because it allows you to better target your research. The estimate takes into account many factors such as the age of your home, your type of heating (electric or gas), your household appliances, etc.

♦ Electricity subscription comparisons.

Once you have seen your estimated consumption, you can look at the electricity subscriptions.

There are many subscription offers. Choose a subscription that meets your needs and is cost-effective. You can also consider factors such as the supplier's carbon footprint. This is a key factor if you want to be more environmentally friendly.

To help you make your choice, Fournisseur Énergie recommends using an electricity subscription comparator. They show you comparisons of different electricity subscriptions and suppliers. They are very useful for clarification and to simplify your search.

Things to remember for your move.

You can of course change your offer after your move. However, there are certain steps that must be taken before you move.

♦ Inform your supplier of your move.

When you move house, it is necessary to inform your electricity supplier. Your electricity contract is specific to your home as it meets its specific needs. According to the Energy Supplier's moving guide, your supplier will ask you totake out a contract for your new home if you want to stay with them.

At the same time, it will terminate the electricity contract for your old home. Indicate the date of your move so that the supplier can terminate your contract on that specific date. They will also make a request for the connection.

The electricity offers are without obligation. You can therefore take out an electricity subscription before you move and change it once you are settled.

♦ Commissioning.

You need to be connected if you want to have electricity in your new home. You must request this from your supplier after you have taken out your electricity subscription for your new home.

Commissioning is a costly operation. It takes several days for a standard connection. We therefore advise you to make your request at least two weeks before your move. If you would like to know more about commissioning, click here.

Although it is possible to change your electricity subscription after you move, don't forget to request a commissioning beforehand! Otherwise you risk being left without electricity.

Here are our tips for choosing your electricity subscription after a move. Are you moving for professional reasons? Would you like to be helped with your mobility and welcomed in your new home? Call on our ambassadors ! They will be able to help you with your administrativeprocedures , including those for electricity!... To find out more, contact us or visit www.switch-up.fr

Let's make an appointment!

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Categories
Professional mobility Preparing your mobility

The 5 steps to follow to live your mobility serenely

The 5 steps to follow to live your mobility serenely

Successful mobility is prepared mobility. Indeed, moving requires time and energy. So, optimise your move by following the 5 steps to follow in order to live your move with peace of mind

5 steps to a smooth move

1. Project yourself into your future home.

Housing visits are scheduled. Now is the time to plan. Where will I put this pedestal table? How will I arrange my sofa and TV unit? Questions that may seem trivial to you... but you should think about them when you visit the home you want to move into. This will make it easier for you to fill your boxes and sort out the contents! If you're moving to a bigger place, also start identifying the furniture you'll need, and if you have to buy it on the internet, have it delivered directly to your new home (or to the nearest relay point).

2. Anticipate the boxes.

What a great transition! Of course, we all go through it. Now it's up to you to make sure that everything goes smoothly. Here are some tips:

  • Organise your time several weeks in advance so that you can do a little each day. This way, you will experience it less painfully and hurriedly. No stress!  
  • Sort the items by room to save time when unpacking. One colour per piece and a few stickers will make your life easier!
  • Sort it out! There's no need to take old clothes with you because you might be able to put them back. Sell them, give them away or put them in the containers for the most needy. Not only will you free up space, but you'll also make people happy! 

3. Cancel your old subscriptions.

This is probably the most tedious and worrying part of moving house... There is always the fear of forgetting a subscription and being left with bills you don't even know about. If you're organised, you probably have a file of your bills. So grab your phone or computer and cancel them with a few clicks. For the less organised, here are the basics:

  • Cancelling your lease : You must send a letter by registered mail with acknowledgement of receipt or hand-delivered. Think about the notice period, which can vary from one month to three. You could end up paying double rent for several months.
  • Water : To cancel your water contract, contact them at least two weeks before you leave your home. In addition, remember to take a meter reading on the day to avoid unpleasant surprises.
  • Home insurance : Once your move-in date is set, contact your insurer to inform them of your change of address. If you are cancelling, remember to send a letter with acknowledgement of receipt so that your request is taken into account.
  • Energy : To cancel your contract, contact your electricity and/or gas supplier to inform them of your upcoming move. Nothing could be easier, they will take care of cancelling your contract.
  • Internet : You can cancel your subscription or simply change your address in your contract. For a cancellation, a letter by post with acknowledgement of receipt will suffice. But beware, you may be charged a cancellation fee!
  • Waste: Contact your local council!

4. Subscribe to new contracts.

To avoid spending your first evenings with candles and taking cold showers, think about subscribing to your new contracts. Don't wait until you're settled in to do this, you may need to start at least two weeks in advance. If you don't have enough time, or if you are afraid of making a mistake, get some help! There are now platforms that do the subscriptions for you, so take advantage of them! For example: Hopenergie.com Hopenergie.com allows you to compare the offers from electricity and gas suppliers. This will allow you to choose the one that suits you best for a comfortable and serene home.

The Green Touch: You can also find out about local energy offers for better resource sharing and more responsible consumption.

5. Prepare for the day in advance.

Are youmoving across France or to the next village? In all cases, you need to plan your move. Plan ahead so that everything is ready on the day of your departure/installation. Be careful, whether you use a removal company or hire a lorry, you need to plan for several days or weeks to ensure that everyone is available. You should also anticipate the cleaning and any repairs that may need to be done before leaving your home. This way, you won't find yourself with any surprises when you check out. 

Here are our 5 steps to follow to live your move with peace of mind. Are you moving as part of a professional move? Would you like to be helped with your move and welcomed in your new home? Call on our ambassadors! They can help you discover the city. But also to find the house of your dreams, to carry out your administrativeprocedures... For more information, contact us or find us on www.switch-up.fr

Categories
Candidate experience Professional mobility Preparing your mobility

Key figures to remember: geographical mobility and candidate experience

Key figures to remember: geographical mobility & candidate experience

In August & September 2020, we conducted a study on candidate mobility. This study was conducted among 50 French recruitment agencies. Between mobility to take up an interesting position and the desire to move to the provinces post-Covid, here are the key figures to remember concerning mobility and the candidate experience.

Candidate mobility, an update on the situation.

Across all the firms we surveyed, here are some key figures to remember regarding employee mobility and the candidate experience. An average of 20% of candidates move to another region to take up a new position. All recruiters are faced with candidate mobility. This may involve mobility: Paris - Region / Region - Paris / Region - Region.

While studies show that 80% of Parisian executives want to leave ParisThe firms surveyed confirm this trend. They are receiving more applications from employees who want to move to the regions. "More and more candidates are looking to move and want a change of life," confirmed several recruiters. A large pool of candidates is therefore available. It is therefore necessary to know how to approach them and accompany them in their change of life!

Measuring the suitability of applicants to move.

Many recruiters have lost a candidate in the process because the process involved moving.

Catherine was to join a company in the Vendée. Everything was going well but at the last moment she turned down the job. She was afraid of not fitting in with the local culture and not finding accommodation.

The reasons are often the same. In the case of a family, mobility does not only affect the future employee but also his or her spouse and children. The spouse has to find a new job, the children have to change schools. The whole social life has to be rebuilt in an unknown place... Thus, it is necessary to be able to quickly understand the motivation of a candidate to change region in order to pursue, or not, the process. If their motivation is still strong, they should be supported in their efforts.

♦ The methods

In order to validate that the candidate is motivated and aware of this change of life, the recruiters interviewed have several methods:

First, ask the candidate if they are mobile, and if so, in which regions.

"If the candidate says yes and is very mobile and/or mobile in the region concerned, the process continues. If they are resistant at first, the exchange does not continue."

Secondly, as the location of the job is indicated in the advertisement, the question does not arise. Recruiters do check that the candidate has taken note of the location of the post and that he or she is not closed to mobility 

"I ask them directly if they are interested in the city of the job."

Finally, some recruiters go further and make sure that the candidate has discussed mobility with his or her spouse. "I check that he has discussed it with his spouse and that she agrees. And they are right!

♦ The reasons for success

Most importantly, the qualification of a candidate's willingness to change region. This is obviously the key to success. If it is a question of moving closer to family, of a desire to improve one's living environment in a known region, candidates will go through with the process. Especially if it's a job in a big city.

Most of the time, candidates are willing to move to improve their living environment because they have children, for example, or because they are moving closer to their family.

For a very interesting job, some candidates are willing to move to a remote area. However, this is much more complicated. And yet, some cities that are not very attractive at first glance may have qualities! They will suit some candidates who might not have thought of them. Discussing the living environment and the advantages of these cities with candidates is a real strategy. It can trigger the candidate's motivation to take the job. 

♦ The reasons for failure

"I had placed a candidate in a regional city. A few days before taking up the post, he called me to say that he had to discuss it with his spouse. As a result, the spouse did not agree and the candidate did not take the job.

Another key figure to remember about employee mobility is that 44% would refuse a job if it meant moving.

If the candidate's motivation for mobility has not been sufficiently developed, there may indeed be failures at the end of the process. The same is true if the recruiter does not have any solutions to propose to the candidate to overcome these obstacles. These failures lead to a loss of time and money for the recruiter.

In cases where the job is not enough to make a positive decision, you need to go further. For example, present the living environment and the location of the job. This allows you to see with the candidate whether he or she can integrate into the region and live there permanently. Another solution may be to propose solutions and support for mobility (see below).

Do you want to set up an Onboarding process?

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Presentation of the living environment.

Take the time to talk to your clients about the area and its benefits and don't hesitate to write about it in your recruitment advertisements. This could attract new candidates who might not have applied without a description.

In the interview, talk to the candidate about the region. During the exchange you can get information about the candidate and connect them with the region to confirm their interest.

For example: a candidate did not necessarily think she would move to the Vendée. But by talking to her recruiter about local life, she finally became interested in the region and settled there. She took the job and is still there. For a job in a remote area, try to get information about daily life to share with the candidate.

Typical example

A recruiter told us about a position he had to fill near Mont Saint Michel. Few candidates applied. As for those with whom he spoke, he only talked to them about Mont Saint Michel. This did not really excite the candidates. 

The Mont Saint Michel is certainly very beautiful but to visit it during the holidays. Moreover, the candidate will not live directly on the Mont but in a nearby town. Not being able to talk about local life was a problem for this recruiter. The tourist information will not necessarily allow your candidates to project themselves into a life on the spot. Nor will it encourage them to be interested in the job.

If you don't know anything about the area, you can put them in touch with a local person. This person will share information with them and can tell them about life in the area. If there are commonalities between your candidate's interests and the area, you can be sure that this will be a good thing. The candidate will be grateful.

You have just read our key figures on mobility and the candidate experience. Are you recruiting candidates from other regions and want to make them feel welcome? Call on our ambassadors! They can help your new employee discover the city. But also to find the house of their dreams, to carry out their administrative procedures... To find out more, contact us or find us on www.switch-up.fr

This article was written by Cécile N. Cécile N., at your service to help you welcome and integrate your future talents.

Switch up
Categories
Professional mobility Preparing your mobility

Choose your neighbourhood in 5 steps.

New district

Choosing your new neighbourhood in 5 steps

Living, working or doing business in a new area is determined by a number of criteria, which should be carefully considered. Know why you want to move and then follow our 5 steps to choosing your new neighbourhood! All this by asking yourself the right questions: it will help you see things more clearly. 

Why am I moving to another region or neighbourhood?

More than 700,000 French people change region every year and more than one in two dream of doing the same within five years. The reasons for this are: a better balance between professional and family life and, often, a warmer climate. But beware: there is nothing trivial about such a project and, above all, each main reason often corresponds to a lifestyle and therefore a type of neighbourhood!

Working
Leaving Paris for a new professional start... Living environment, transport, rhythm: it is possible to win on almost every level. However, it is important not to over-idealise.

J'entreprends
Incubators, competitions, technical and financial support: the regions are vying with each other to attract entrepreneurs. They highlight their economic assets, their personalised support and a certain art of living.

Business
Rather than favouring a particular climate or region, some people are more interested in finding a place that matches their values and aspirations.

If you are looking for a new home in a city that you may not know inside out, we can help you.

Not sure which district to choose?

Let's make an appointment to discuss it.

5 steps to follow when choosing your new neighbourhood

♦ 1st step: define the typical portrait of your new neighbourhood (ideal!)

Before you head off, make a list of what is most important to you in terms of where you live. You will probably have to make compromises: put the most important criteria at the top of your list and eliminate any neighbourhoods that do not meet them. On the other hand, be prepared to put your lower priority expectations in brackets or you may never find a place to live. So what are the main questions to ask yourself?

Do you have children or are you planning to have children?

As a parent, one of the first things to do when looking at a neighbourhood is to find out which schools your children will attend. If you are single, proximity to a highly rated public high school or college will increase the resale value of your home.

How willing are you to commute?

If you plan to drive to work, it is best to live near an access road. If you plan to use public transport, look for areas with good transport links.

Do you want to live in a new district or in the historic centre?

The historic city centre areas have a lot of character but are often expensive and noisy. Buildings in these areas often require extensive and regular maintenance. Newer neighbourhoods are by definition more modern and environmentally friendly, but are usually far from the city centre.

What about your spouse?

Because moving house should be a team choice, don't hesitate to answer these first questions together and then compare your answers... For a new stage of life to be successful, all the parties involved must be in agreement with the life choices decided upon! This is all the more important if your partner decides to follow you in this adventure: at the beginning, he or she may not have a professional or personal activity equivalent to the one he or she is leaving.

It is essential that he/she likes your new life so that everyone is happy with the change. 

♦ 2nd step: target your search geographically

If you are moving to a new city, you should already have an idea of where you want to live. Identify the neighbourhoods closest to your expectations.

If you are moving to a new city, the first thing you need to do is to decide in which part of the city you want to live. For example, if your future workplace is in the south, start with the southern districts, etc. This is especially important in a large city.

However, it is not always easy to find a map with the different districts of a city. To help you, some cities provide access to their data and in particular their geographical data. For example, for new Nantes residents you will find the following map showing the different districts and their perimeters in the city of Nantes. A good start to delimit your search area!

♦ 3rd step: consult the locals to choose your neighbourhood

This survey phase should enable you to identify the 3 or 4 most interesting districts. Do your initial research on the internet and ask our Ambassadors for their objective recommendations! 

Choose an Ambassador who obviously has a lifestyle that suits you. It makes sense that you have different desires at 20 than at 50, and different needs when you move alone or with your family.

♦ Step 4: Visit the neighbourhoods and look for clues

Now it's time to get out there and walk around the areas you selected in the previous step. If you live too far away from your destination city to organise a scouting trip, you may want to ask one of our local residents to help you: he or she will be more efficient and thorough in his or her research and will save you valuable time in organising your orientation. Below is a list of tips and tricks to help you select your neighbourhood.

What was your first impression of the area?

Did the inhabitants seem friendly and happy? Were the shopkeepers friendly? Did you find the houses pretty and well maintained? You are going to live in your neighbourhood for many years, so it might as well be a source of positive energy! 

Meet the neighbours!

Ask them what they like best about their neighbourhood, but also what 2 or 3 things bother them the most. Are they aware of any upcoming development work? New buildings? Think about asking the town hall as well. They will give you a clearer idea of the possibilities for development in the neighbourhood...

Think about your daily life, the different moments of the day.

If you can't go to work without your morning espresso, you need a coffee shop nearby. If you have a dog, where do you walk it? If you love Italian food, is there a good pizzeria not too far away?...Are the roads congested during rush hour or after school? Are there a lot of people hanging around in the evening? 

The noise of the tram, the nearby hospital, trains or bars may be reassuring during the day but what about at bedtime? Go to school. Even if you don't have children, it's always instructive to see what the locals are like. A good way to get an opinion is to observe parents dropping their children off at school.

♦ Step 5: Make sure you can find accommodation that fits your wallet

You have chosen your neighbourhood. But can you afford to live there? Take the time to assess your financial situation and ask our teams for an idea of the price per m2 in the various districts.

You have just read our 5 steps to choose your new neighbourhood! Are you afraid you won't be able to manage everything on your own? You don't know your new city and don't know how to choose your neighbourhood? Call on our ambassadors! They can help you discover the city. But also to find the house of your dreams, to carry out the administrative steps... They can help you in your choice by advising you on the choice of the ideal district for you. To find out more, contact us or visit www.switch-up.fr