Dear J.T. and Dale: I have a sticky situation. I recently took a job that required me to relocate several states away. My past executive relocations always have been handled by the companies themselves. This time, I’ve been asked to present receipts for reimbursement. I was told they don’t have a relocation specialist, even though this is an international corporation. The only thing they asked to approve was the actual cost for the packing and moving of my household goods. Meanwhile, I have expenses for travel to the new location and temporary housing, as well as storage costs and a trip back to my old city to finalize the sale of my home. I want to start off on the right foot but I don’t want to feel taken advantage of either. – Jeff J.T.: Go to the new employer and ask for an itemized list of what expenses they cover. If they don’t have one, then you can introduce an itemized list covering all your costs associated with the move and say: “These are all the expenses that have been approved for me by former employers. Please let me know if these are also covered under your policy.” After which, you’ll collect receipts for each one and submit them at one time.

That way, you’re open and accommodating, asking rather than telling. You’re working together to do what’s right and fair, and that’s exactly what every decent company wants in an employee. You’ll make a great first impression.