Hi Everyone,
I got an offer to join Bain in Mumbai post my MBA. I wanted to know if it would be possible to move to the London office in 1-year post joining? I will be joining Bain in May'23, should I speak to HR before joining or wait till I join and speak to HR 4-5 months post-joining?
My family will be moving to the UK in the next 3-4 months. Just for context, I did my undergrad in the UK and also have some work experience in London before moving back to India.
Thanks
Hi there,
Look, it's certainly not easy, but it is do-able. You're going to struggle to do it within just a year and in a direction that is hard (UK to India much easier than India to UK). Ultimately, timing + situation matters.
I've transferred a few times within companies and have the following advice:
1) Build a stellar reputation - do good work, work hard, and be known as "the guy/gal" for xx
2) Build your network - network agressively (yes, networking doesn't end once you've gotten the job offer). Make sure you're known by and have allies in people who make decisions such as staffing managers, Partners (specifically those responsible for recruiting/resources and who are heads of industry/function verticals), etc.
2) b). When I say network "aggressively" please don't be needy/annoying :) There's nothing worse than someone who is obviously working the room or trying to please!
3) Look out for opportunities - as mentioned in this Q&A already, look for office transfers, short-term projects, ambassadorships, etc.)
4) Practice patience and be flexible - how long have you tried for? This might take a year. And you need to be ready to go at the flip of a coin.
Bide your time, keep pushing, be smart, and you'll get there!
Hi there,
Congrats on the offer!
With Bains's more local staffing model and rules, this might be a bit tricker than let's say in McKinsey, however, it is possible.
Two things to consider:
All the best!
Florian
Typically, you need to have a minimum tenure (1-2 years) in the firm before you can be considered for a move to a different office. Also every office typically follow their own recruitment cycle and process. The only way you might be able to pull it off is if there is direct reference from somebody senior (principal / partner) in the London office who can potentially initiate this. Not sure, if you discussed your family relocation during the interviews ? . My advice would be to have a chat with Hr and understand from them the options and if the firm can consider it. If not, join the firm - try and see if you can network with somebody from London office who can support you with the move
good luck !
As others have suggested waiting is your best bet. The London office is extremely competitive and it is not easy for the team to immediately transfer you there before you have joined (especially if you need visa sponsorship).
Waiting allows you to build credibility and a good reputation which will serve you well when you need partner support to transfer over to the London office.
Best,
Udayan
Unlikely to happen in your first year. I would bring that closer to the 1 year mark.
you will need at least 1 yr of seniority and then you can apply. Yet then is not guaranteed, but chances are usually high.
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