If you want me, you pay?

[LucyCielo]

I have been offered three jobs since sending a speculative cv to an agency (and having interviews which I thought would be good practice if nothing else). I have since learnt that despite personal knowledge and the advice offered on the agency website, the companies in question do not offer relocation. I'm struggling to think how I can accept any job offer since I have a flat which would have to be sold as well as rent on a place in the new location - aibu or is is the practice of firms not to offer any help to new employees?

Congratulations - you obviously have a great CV and interview well!

Re, relocation, it's highly variable and depends on lots of factors. Eg, how difficult it is to get your skills locally, how senior the role is, how long they are prepared to wait to get the right candidate etc.

It may be negotiable - even if they advertised the job, not expecting that they will have to pay relocation, they may now pay it in order to get you to accept the job. It will depend on their internal policies and on how much they want you.

You could state what you need in order to take the job and see what they come back with. Keep the discussion very positive and upbeat. State your need in terms of your skills, enthusiasm and how well you will do the job. (vs. saying that you can't afford to move without it for instance which is your issue not theirs.) Make it clear that you are the perfect person for the job.
Eg, "Thank you very much for the offer, I'm excited about the opportunity to work with you because (say something positive about teh position, company and offer). My skills and expertise of x,y and z make me confident that I will be able to deliver the results. I understand that the salary will be ABC. How much flexibility does the company have in providing relocation expenses?"
You should do your research first. Do you know how much it will cost and what you are looking for. A company may have a policy of not paying relocation at your level (and may not want to set a precedent) However, they might be prepared to give you a sign on bonus or other expenses which may cover your costs.
Don't push too hard unless you are willing to walk away.
It will help if your skills are in high demand and the fact that you have several offers puts you in a stronger position.
Good luck