How to relocate: Melbourne to London, Adam Withers

Can you tell us how you found your role?

I found my role through working with Hattie Whillans and the team at Frazer Jones. Despite spending a great deal of time exploring roles in the market and submitting a number of applications myself, I was very fortunate that Hattie identified the perfect opportunity for me and supported me to secure the right role.

What was your job search experience like? And how does it differ to Australian processes?

I found it to be far more challenging than I anticipated. At the time of searching for my next role the market was very competitive, with fewer jobs available and an increasing number of candidates in market. As a newcomer to London, it was the first time that I wasn’t able to rely on my network to identify and secure my next role.

What was the interview process like?

The interview process was seamless. I had two rounds of virtual interviews and a final in-person interview. The interviews took place over two weeks, so the process was efficient and I had an offer within the fortnight. It was beneficial to meet my future manager and Director in person and to experience the office environment to get a feel for the culture of the organisation, which ultimately influenced my choice between competing offers.

How did you make yourself stand out?

Ultimately, I showcased the diverse experience I have obtained across the organisations and sectors I have worked in, this in turn helped me to demonstrate my agility and ability to add value in different situations and environments. I also took the time to really understand the role, the organisation and the current context the business is operating in.

What are the biggest challenges you have faced relocating to London?

The biggest challenge has been needing to rebuild my network, both personally and professionally. I’ve always found my network has enabled me to access great people and to have wonderful experiences. While it is exciting to be meeting new people and having new experiences in London, I certainly miss the great, established relationships and friendships that I have built back in Australia.

What do you love about living in London?

Primarily, London’s proximity to Europe, which gives me the ability to travel as often as I can to new cities and countries to experience the history, culture, environment and food. However, there is also so much on offer here in London from a sporting, music, history, cultural and culinary perspective, which means you can always find something exciting to do.

What us the biggest difference between your Australian city vs. London?

Home for me in Australia is Melbourne, so aside from the lack of good coffee options in London, it is not too dissimilar to Melbourne. London’s larger size and scale, the higher number of people and the amount of time it takes to travel around the city would be the key differences.

What was your experience like with Frazer Jones?

I genuinely cannot praise Frazer Jones enough. Of all the recruitment agencies I dealt with during my job search, Frazer Jones significantly outperformed its competitors by providing a far better candidate experience. Hattie and the team really took the time to get to know me, to understand my career experience and to fully grasp what I was looking for in my next role. The team were thoughtful in the roles they presented to me and for Frazer Jones it wasn’t about placing me into any role for a quick outcome, it was about identifying and securing the right role. I wouldn’t have the job I have today without the effort and support of the team at Frazer Jones.

Any words of advice or wisdom for new commers?

Be patient. London is a far bigger job market to navigate than any Australian city and it takes time to crack it. Know what it is that you want in your next role, do your research and ensure that you tailor your applications and CV for each role to really get noticed.