25 Lessons Learnt

Celebrating 25 Years of Global Recruitment Adventures

After 25 years helping accountants and finance professionals relocate to all corners of the world — from Sydney to San Francisco, from Belfast to Bermuda — we’ve gathered a few pearls of wisdom along the way. Here are 25 of our favourite lessons (sometimes learned the hard way!) that shape how we work with candidates and clients across the globe.

🌍 1. Talent has no borders.

Great professionals come from every corner of the world. The most exciting hires often come with a passport full of stamps and a unique perspective shaped by culture and experience.

✈️ 2. Relocating for work is life changing.

It’s not just a job move — it’s a leap of faith, a new beginning, and often the best story people end up telling at dinner parties.

👂 3. Relationships matter more than transactions.

We’re not in the business of “filling roles.” We build bridges, listen to hopes and hesitations, and stay in touch long after the move.

🎯 4. Career goals are personal.

Some chase sunshine, others chase seniority. We always ask why — because that shapes the where and what next.

🕰️ 5. Timing is everything.

Even the perfect candidate or opportunity can fall flat if the timing’s off. Momentum (and diary management) matter!

💬 6. A well-prepared candidate inspires confidence.

Knowing the job, the firm, the culture, and the time zone (!) shows serious intent. We always encourage practice interviews — ideally using the same platform as the real one.

💻 7. Use the same tool as the interview.

Zoom, Teams, Meets — whatever the firm uses, we help candidates rehearse on that exact platform. It reduces nerves and tech hiccups on the day.

🕰️ 8. Always quote both time zones.

The candidate, the client, and yes — often us — are in three different time zones. Clarity saves chaos.

🚪 9. Everyone should be able to access the virtual interview room.

We’ve learnt the hard way that if we’re the host, but we’re not in the meeting — no one gets in! Now we always check that link access is client- and candidate-friendly.

🌐 10. Global mobility is changing fast.

From digital nomad visas to hybrid work and 4-day weeks, the world of work is in motion — and we’re riding the wave with it.

📣 11. Communication builds trust.

We’ve found 90% of issues can be avoided with proactive, transparent communication. No assumptions. No guesswork.

📊 12. Market trends are wildly different by region.

What works in the Cayman Islands won’t fly in Canada. Local insight is the secret weapon.

🏢 13. The Big Four hire locally.

Yes, they’re global. But each office has its own quirks, culture, and style. We make sure candidates understand what makes each location tick.

💌 14. Candidates remember the little touches.

A follow-up call. A relocation checklist. A friendly check-in a month after they land. It all adds up.

🧳 15. Some don’t realise what a “relocation” really means.

Until they’re trying to open a bank account in a new language or figure out if their dog needs a pet passport. We help prep them early.

🧠 16. AI is helpful — but it won’t build trust.

We use the tools, but we lead with human connection. No algorithm can replace empathy.

 

🎢 17. Emotions run high.

Excitement, fear, second thoughts, culture shock — we’ve seen it all. Supporting candidates emotionally is part of the job.

🤹 18. Flexibility is key.

Plans change. Flights get delayed. Offers get adjusted. We adapt, every time.

🌞 19. People really do want the sunnier climate.

Yes, the salary and progression matter — but so does that beach view on your lunch break.

🕵️ 20. LinkedIn isn’t everything. 

Some of the best candidates aren’t actively looking. We know where to find them — and how to engage them.

🧭 21. Clients appreciate insight.

Salary benchmarks, visa timelines, cultural expectations — sharing knowledge builds trust and repeat business.

🧩 22. One size does not fit all.

Templates are nice. But every placement is bespoke — tailored to the person, the team, the culture, and the dream.

🚨 23. It’s rarely “just one interview.”

International moves often involve multiple stages. We guide candidates every step of the way, so they don’t get lost in the process.

🥳 24. Celebrate the wins — big and small.

From visa approvals to first days on the job to 5-year work anniversaries abroad — we never stop cheering people on.

🫶 25. We’re not just changing jobs. We’re Improving Lives.

And that, 25 years in, still feels just as rewarding as the very first placement.

 

 

Here’s to the next 25 years of making global dreams come true. 🌎✨
Whether you’re hiring across borders or considering a career move overseas — we’re here to guide, support, and celebrate with you.