London Career Kickstart: Relocation & Job Tips

 

Navigating Daily Life in London

 

London is a bustling city, home to nearly 10 million people! While it can feel overwhelming at first, it has been voted top in human capital, beating Tokyo and Riyadh, in the Oxford Economics’ latest Global Cities Index (CityA.M. source)! London is a place to live, with rich cultural diversity and a thriving business hub that offers incredible opportunities.

 

Accommodation

Finding suitable accommodation is a top priority when you arrive. The housing market is very competitive—you may want to consider a short-term rental initially. Consider your budget, preferred location, and transportation options when searching for a place to live.

• Understand London’s zones: popular areas for professionals include Central London, Canary Wharf, and Shoreditch. Central London is within zones 1-2 in TFL (Transport for London) terms. Londoners distinguish the North from South, the West from East London,… Explore neighbourhoods like Clapham, Fulham, Hackney, Islington,… to find what suits you best based on your tastes. Which vibe are you?
• Budget for bills: utilities and council tax are often not included in the advertised rent (per week or month). Expect to pay less in house shares, which are also great for newcomers, and those further out of the centre!
• Use reputable websites: check SpareRoom, Rightmove, OpenRent, and Zoopla for listings, as well as calling local estate agencies, which do not charge any fee to tenants anymore. Avoid scams by attending viewings in person.
• Prepare your paperwork: gather the right documents (right to rent, tenant references), and sign a tenancy agreement with a protected deposit scheme (TDS).

 

Getting Around London Without Breaking the Bank

London has an extensive network of buses, trains, and the iconic Underground (the Tube). To save on travel costs:  

Use your contactless credit/debit card or the Oyster card: the Oyster card is a TFL rechargeable smart card, on which we can add concessions or travelcards (weekly or monthly passes).

If you’re under 30, get a Railcard (16-25 or 26-30) to save at least 1/3 off train tickets, to get around Greater London and the country. You will save the cost of the card, £30, in just a few trips! Link it to your Oyster card (ask an agent at a tube station) for additional savings on the Tube when travelling off-peak.

Fares are higher during peak hours. When possible, plan your journeys outside of rush hours to save money, usually after 9:30am and after 7pm.

Pay as you go if working from home or with a hybrid working schedule. If commuting 5 days a week or more, it might be worth checking the travelcards to spend less overall.  

With London's streets filled with history and charm, it’s a great idea to be on foot or by bike.  Invest in a bike or use bike-sharing services. Wear a helmet and check for local cycling courses to boost confidence, some Boroughs and councils offer free sessions. The Cycle to Work scheme offers tax benefits, check with your employer.

The add-victor’s fav: the Overground and the DLR, both above ground, the Elisabeth Line, the newest addition to the Tube network, stopping at Bond Street, a few minutes walk from the office, and last but not least, the Thames Clippers for a nice river trip!

 

Navigating Professional Etiquette in London

 

London’s business culture values professionalism, respect, and efficiency.

First of, dress appropriately. Follow your company’s dress code and opt for slightly more formal attire for important meetings.

Be punctual and organised. Arriving on time for your appointments shows respect for others' time and demonstrates your commitment to your work. Plan your commute to allow for unexpected delays.

Lastly, embrace diversity. London is a multicultural city, it’s an opportunity to learn from others’ backgrounds and foster a welcoming and inclusive work environment.

 

Networking and Cultivating Business Connections

 

Building professional relationships is key to building a successful career in London. Cultivating connections can only nurture your career growth and development. Here’s how:

• Attend industry events: look out for conferences, seminars, and workshops related to your field of interest. Ask colleagues about the best events, conferences or summits to attend, and stay updated with newsletters,… show your interest and make a positive impression from day 1.
• Prepare your ‘elevator pitch’ to introduce yourself and make a memorable impression: sport is often the number one topic catalyser for engaging in a new conversation, according to our candidates! You’ve got a story, use it!
• Join professional associations and bodies: memberships may be paid by your company! These often host networking events and provide resources for professional development. Consider volunteering to expand your network.
• Utilise online platforms: use LinkedIn to connect with professionals in your industry. Build a strong profile, engage with relevant content, and seek mentorship opportunities.
• Join networking groups: London has various networking groups and meetups catering to different interests (entrepreneurship, sustainability,…). Find groups that align with your goals and meet like-minded professionals.

Remember, networking is a two-way street. Be genuine, show interest in others, and offer help or support when possible. Building authentic relationships is key to long-term success in the London business community.

We once read…

“The opposite of networking is NOT working”

 

Exploring Leisure Activities & Sports in London

 

London offers a wide range of leisure activities and sports. Whether you're interested in exploring cultural attractions, participating in sports, or hobbies, the city has something for everyone.

If you’re new to the city, make some time to visit museums. London is home to world-class museums and art galleries, including the iconic British Museum, Tate Modern, and the National Gallery.

London is surprisingly green. Enjoy its beautiful large parks and green spaces like Hyde Park, Regent's Park (and Primrose Hill for a view), Greenwich Park or Richmond Park. These green oases provide a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Try out different sports, from football and cricket to tennis and rowing, there's a sport for every interest! Join a local sports club or participate in recreational leagues to stay active and make new friends. Go Mammoth is a recreational sports leagues in the UK offering many sports fixtures across London. Prefer to stay put? Watch live sport on the screen in pubs or get a seat in the stadium. From Premier League to Non-League football, Cricket matches, rugby, The London Marathon, and Wimbledon,… some major sports events are happening in London, it’s a big part of the London cultural scene, so don’t miss it!   

Attend cultural events and festivals, there's always something happening in the city. TimeOut London is a great place to stay updated.

Last but not least, explore the food scene. London is a melting pot of international cuisines. Visit local delicacies, food markets, and try different restaurants…

 

London offers endless opportunities for leisure, recreation, and for career growth. The main advice is to enjoy the city's vibrant lifestyle and make the most of your free time by exploring its cultural offerings and engaging in activities that bring you joy.