So You Want to Swap Your Teh Ais for a Cuppa? Working in London as a Malaysian
Ah, London! The bustling streets, the iconic landmarks (Big Ben chiming every hour, not every minute, FYI), and enough fish and chips to feed a small army (although, we all know our nasi lemak reigns supreme). But for many Malaysians, London beckons with the promise of exciting careers, new experiences, and maybe even a chance to finally snag a decent cup of teh tarik (though nothing beats home-brewed, let's be real).
So, you've got the Union Jack socks and a raincoat prepped for the inevitable drizzle. But how exactly do you turn that dream into a double-decker reality? Well, fret not, my fellow Malaysian because this guide is about to be your one-stop roti canai to working in London.
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| How To Work In London As A Malaysian |
Visa Versa: Your Ticket to the Big Smoke
First things first, you'll need a visa, my friend. It's like your magic portal to London life. There are a few options, but the most common for Malaysians is the Skilled Worker visa. Basically, you'll need a job offer from a licensed sponsor in the UK (think of them as your visa fairy godmothers/fathers). The job also needs to be on the government's "approved" list, so dust off that resume and get applying!
Tip: Take a sip of water, then continue fresh.
Top Tip: Network like crazy! Reach out to Malaysians already working in London, connect with companies on LinkedIn, and don't be afraid to put yourself out there.
Job Hunting Like a Boss (or Should We Say, Big Ben?)
London's a competitive beast, so you gotta bring your A-game. Here's how to make your Malaysian awesomeness shine:
QuickTip: Read line by line if it’s complex.
- Highlight your transferable skills: So you used to be a teh tarik master? Great! Emphasize your customer service skills, ability to work under pressure (because those queues can be brutal!), and attention to detail (those seven layers of teh tarik don't appear by magic).
- Ace the interview: Brush up on your interview skills. Research the company culture, prepare for common interview questions, and don't forget that oh-so-important British charm (a sprinkle of self-deprecating humor goes a long way).
Bonus points: Learn a few basic British slang terms to impress your interviewer. "Sorted" for good, "cheers" for thanks, and "having a right laugh" for a good time will have them thinking you're a true Brit (well, almost).
Packing for London: More Than Just Baju Batik
London's a city of four seasons in one day, so pack accordingly. Think layers, a sturdy umbrella (because it will rain, a lot), and comfortable shoes for navigating the never-ending Tube rides. Don't forget a few baju Batik for special occasions – you'll be representing Malaysia in style!
Tip: Read at your own pace, not too fast.
Pro Tip: Pack some familiar Malaysian snacks to stave off those inevitable cravings for home. Your flatmates will thank you (especially if you share!).
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FAQs: Your Malaysian in London Survival Guide
How to find a flat? London flats are like gold dust, so be prepared to act fast and maybe share a kitchen with a grumpy old git (don't worry, they're usually alright once you get to know them). Websites like Rightmove and SpareRoom are your best bet.
Tip: Read carefully — skimming skips meaning.
How to make friends? Londoners might seem a bit reserved at first, but don't be discouraged! Join clubs that interest you, strike up conversations with your flatmates, and don't be afraid to say hi to people on the Tube (although maybe not during rush hour). There's a whole world of friendly faces waiting to be discovered.
How to survive the commute? The Tube can be a beast, but it's also the lifeblood of London. Download a good travel app to navigate the labyrinthine lines, pack some headphones for your tunes, and maybe even a book for those inevitable delays (because they will happen).
How to not get lost? Google Maps will be your best friend, but London's a city best explored by getting lost (within reason, of course). You never know what hidden gems you might stumble upon!
How to cope with the weather? Embrace the grey skies, my friend. There's a reason why Londoners are the masters of the sarcasm – it helps! But fear not, there are plenty of sunny days too, perfect for exploring all those beautiful parks.
So there you have it! With a little planning, a lot of teh tarik spirit, and this handy guide, you
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