Achieving work-life balance in Bournemouth
Finding the perfect work-life balance is something every City worker strives for, but few manage to achieve. However, it’s easier than many would have you believe - even when coping with the huge demands placed on you by the banking industry.
Boasting a comparatively tranquil way of life and a beautiful coastline among its many plus points, it may be that Bournemouth can offer you the perfect opportunity to get out of the rat race. Matt Davis finds out more.
Why leave the City?
Ciy-based bankers will often find that their job has become so stressful they are struggling to truly relax, even when outside of the workplace. If you are one of them, you probably won't need too much convincing as to the benefits of leaving the capital and starting afresh somewhere else.
But there are many other reasons to consider a relocation. It may be that you are about to start a family, or wish to get more for your money property-wise (without the extra hour’s commute) or even that you have hobbies and interests which are difficult to pursue in the capital.
With more and more financial organisations choosing to operate outside of London, it could well be time for you to think about your life goals – with Bournemouth offering the perfect route of escape.
What does Bournemouth have to offer?
JP Morgan - to name but one major bank - currently has 4,500 staff based at its Bournemouth offices, and this should give you some idea of the scale of employment in this Dorset town. But it’s when they’re not in the office that the employees really get to enjoy what Bournemouth has to offer.
For a start, and somewhat obviously, their overall quality of life is better than that of the average Londoner. The rate of pollution is much lower, as are the levels of crime, and there are not many towns in England that can boast such a beautiful sandy beach. The cost of living is also much lower than the capital’s, which, naturally, is reflected in the price of properties.
With a buzzing nightlife, as well as opportunities to partake in leisure activities that Londoners simply wouldn't be able to enjoy without a strenuous journey out of the capital (water sports being a good example), there is plenty to keep you occupied in your spare time.
For those either with, or planning to start, families, you will be pleased to hear that there is a high quality of public schooling education, and living nearer your place of work will mean you get to spend more time with your children – often the decisive factor behind a relocation.
In our experience, the kind of person looking to move from London to Bournemouth is in their mid-30s, married with young children, and striving for a better quality of life for both themselves their family. Normally, they have at least five years’ City experience and are simply tired of London life
On the downside?
When it comes to making a decision as big as this, it is impossible not to think about the negatives – you will need to weigh up the pros and cons, after all.
Most importantly, there has to be the right opportunity available, job-wise. Defining ‘the right opportunity’ will be a decision based on any number of factors, including:
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Will I get paid enough?
While achieving a work-life balance is all about how you spend your time away from the workplace, it is your job that is going to fund your recreational activities.
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How will my career progress?
Before committing to anything, you may need assurance that you will be remaining on the same career path you were in the City.
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What will I be getting out of my job?
Like most people, you may need to feel you are actually achieving something in your place of work. Genuine job satisfaction will have a positive affect on your life outside the office, too.
All of your concerns can be discussed with your Hays Banking consultant. We keep in regular contact with all the banks in the local area and can therefore answer any questions promptly.
Find out more…
You may be pleasantly surprised at the number of jobs and the level of salaries available in Bournemouth, and we would encourage you to get in contact with us if you have any questions.
It may be that you have questions about the town itself. If so, our consultants will be more than happy to recommend places to visit or activities which may be of interest to you.
If you require further information, please get in touch with us. Our contact details are:
Hays Banking
1st Floor, Suite 2
Richmond House
Richmond Hill
Bournemouth
Dorset
BH2 6EQ
t: 01202 789191
e: bournemouth.banking@hays.com
