If you’re working in office support jobs in London, chances are you’re well acquainted with the daily commute. Love it or hate it, the commute is an experience that is central to your workday when you work in London.
We asked some of our candidates to share their stories of navigating London to get to work. From unexpected delays to funny encounters, here’s what they had to say.
Train delays
For Amina, the commute from Croydon to central London is a daily challenge. “I don’t think there’s been a week where my train hasn’t been delayed at least once,” she laughs. “I’ve had to get used to standing on the platform, staring at the sign that keeps pushing the train time back.”
Amina works in a busy admin role and, like many in office support jobs in London, relies heavily on the trains to get her into the city. “You just have to factor in extra time,” she adds, “but there have been days where I’ve had to explain to my boss that I’m late because the train was cancelled - again! They get it, they have the same issue.”
Creative commutes
Jack shared how he’s had to get creative with his commute. “I live in Hackney, and on a good day, it takes me about 40 minutes to get to work,” he says. “But on a bad day, I have to find alternative routes, which has led me to some weird and wonderful journeys.” He’s become an expert in navigating London’s transport alternatives. “One time, I ended up taking a bus, then a Tube, and then finally a riverboat across the Thames. It took me two hours, but I got to work with a good story to tell! I felt like I saw a lot of London that day!”
Enjoyable walks
Not everyone’s commute is full of chaos! Maria, who works as an EA, lives close enough to walk to her office. “I used to take the bus, but when the weather’s nice, I love walking to work,” she says. “It’s my time to relax and clear my head before the busy day starts.” Maria finds her walks a great way to start the day. “I feel lucky that I can avoid the hustle and bustle of the trains. It’s one of the best parts of my day. Part of my route takes me along the South Bank and there’s always something interesting going on. I love how it changes with the seasons.”
Bustling Tube rides
Olu experiences the packed morning Tube rides many Londoners are familiar with. “I get on at Stratford, so by the time the train gets to me, it’s already packed,” he says. “There are days when I’m literally wedged between two people, trying to balance my coffee in one hand and hold onto the pole with the other! It’s all part of the London experience, isn’t it? You just learn to go with the flow. It’s always funny when the train suddenly jerks, and you can spot who was nodding off while standing!”
Cycling successes
Sarah decided to ditch the Tube altogether and start cycling to work. “I was tired of the overcrowding and summer heat, so I got myself a bike,” she explains. “Now, I cycle from Islington to the office in the City. It’s quicker, and I get some exercise in too. It’s become a favourite part of the day, so I’m still doing it now the weather has changed. It’s great to get fresh air and avoid the stress of public transport. Plus, I get to work feeling energised and no longer need to squeeze in going to the gym when I get home.”
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