What would it mean for me to request a move from the NYC office to the London office for a few years?
When I was younger, my dad’s job took us to London for two years, and I have fond memories of that time. Although I love NYC, the two cities have such distinct vibes. NYC feels more cramped and practical, while many parts of London showcase beautiful historical architecture (and let’s be honest, every big city has its share of grime—I’m not sure London could compete with NYC in that department).
I recently graduated and began working at a bulge bracket bank that has a notable presence in London, though it’s smaller than in the US. My team is split among NY, London, and Chicago, and I’ve seen colleagues take short assignments across the pond. I’m curious if I could position myself for a similar opportunity in the next few years, perhaps for a few months or up to a year.
Before making any decisions, I’d definitely plan a long PTO to visit and see how I feel about relocating. However, I’m aware that my childhood memories might be colored by nostalgia, and I would have to consider adult responsibilities and the distance from my family.
If anyone has insights or advice about the potential implications of making this move, I would really appreciate it. I’m thinking of this as a temporary experience—maybe a year or two at most—and I wouldn’t mention it to my team for a while since I just started. I’m mainly looking for input on whether this is a good idea or if I should rethink the whole thing.
One response
It’s great that you’re thinking ahead about your career and personal experiences! Moving from NYC to London for a couple of years could be an enriching opportunity, but there are definitely things to consider. Here are some implications and advice:
Career Opportunities: Being in the London office could provide you with exposure to different markets and clients, which could be very beneficial for your career. It may also help you build a more diverse professional network and gain invaluable international experience.
Cultural Differences: While you have fond memories of London, living there as an adult is different. Make sure you’re prepared for cultural nuances, from communication styles to workplace dynamics. Each city has its own professional etiquette, and the British emphasis on politeness might contrast with the more direct approach in NYC.
Cost of Living: London can be expensive, and the cost of living may not differ drastically from NYC. It’s crucial to understand your finances, including housing, transportation, and general expenses, to ensure you can maintain your lifestyle.
Professional Growth: London has a vibrant financial services sector, and moving there could open doors to new opportunities and experiences. Just make sure to keep your career advancements in mind and consider how a move could align with your long-term goals.
Social Life and Support Network: Moving far from family can be challenging, especially when facing the ups and downs of adult life. While London is a large and vibrant city, it’s essential to actively build a social network there. Joining clubs, groups, or professional associations can help ease the transition.
Timing: Given that you’ve just started your career, it makes sense to take some time to establish yourself before broaching the idea of moving. Gathering experience and insights will help you position yourself better when the time comes.
Trial Visits: As you mentioned, spending time in London vacationing can help solidify your interest in a longer-term move. It might also be worth exploring what it would be like to work there on a temporary basis—perhaps through a short project or rotational program.
In summary, don’t discount the idea of moving, but make sure to weigh the pros and cons carefully. Cultivating a plan and timing it well will give you the best chance of making it a positive experience when you eventually decide to bring it up with your team. Good luck!