Visiting the Manhattan office wasn’t just a change of scenery, it was a chance to connect, support, and grow. From onboarding new team members to strengthening cross-team relationships, this trip blended professional impact with personal development. Supporting New Team Members One of my main goals was to help Don settle into his new role on the Business Support team. I focused on making his onboarding smooth and effective, giving him the confidence and clarity to hit the ground running. I also became a consistent point of contact for the three new Research Executives during their first week. I answered questions, offered guidance, and made sure they felt supported from day one. Raising the Profile of Business Support While in Manhattan, I took the opportunity to raise the visibility of Business Support across the US team. By being present and engaged, I helped others better understand the value we bring and how we contribute to wider business goals. Strengthening Relationships Face-to-Face There’s something powerful about meeting colleagues in person. Face-to-face interactions helped strengthen relationships and made communication feel more natural and open. I also spent time with the Research team, exploring ways we can collaborate more effectively. These conversations were energising and helped uncover new opportunities for Business Support to add value. Embracing Team Culture The team culture in Manhattan stood out. From casual pizza lunches to relaxed wine nights, the US team made me feel incredibly welcome. These moments weren’t just fun — they helped build trust and camaraderie that will last well beyond the trip. Exploring New York City Outside of work, I embraced the full New York experience. I saw Six the Musical, my first solo theatre outing, and it was absolutely brilliant. I also visited The Edge at Hudson Yards, taking in breathtaking views from 100 floors up. And of course, I walked through Times Square and enjoyed a slice of authentic New York pizza. Stepping Outside My Comfort Zone This trip was full of firsts: -My first time in the US -My first solo flight -My first solo theatre experience It was exciting, a little nerve-wracking, but ultimately incredibly rewarding. I returned feeling more confident, more connected, and more inspired. Final Reflections Visiting the Manhattan office was more than just a work trip, it was a meaningful experience that blended professional impact with personal growth. I supported new team members, strengthened cross-team relationships, and helped raise the visibility of Business Support in a new region. At the same time, I embraced new challenges and came back with fresh energy and perspective. This journey reminded me that connection, collaboration, and courage are at the heart of what we do. Sometimes, the most powerful outcomes come from simply showing up, being present, and saying “yes.” If you’d like to find out more about our culture at HRW, click here. Apply Now!