Moving from Singapore to the US for work, Kwee Choo (KC) transitioned from BENEO’s Singapore office to the New Jersey office in March 2024. In this post, she shares her insightful experiences and valuable lessons from this significant move.
Curiosity paired with the desire for personal and professional growth
Armed with an illustrious career in the food industry, KC joined the BENEO family in 2018 as an Area Sales Manager. Over the past six years, she developed close bonds with her colleagues in Singapore and the regional sales network partners. It was a poignant moment for everyone when it was announced that she would be relocating to the US office as Product Manager.
“I have always considered myself a curious person, constantly eager to learn and grow. Therefore, when the opportunity to relocate was made available, I did not hesitate to apply for it as I have always wanted to expand my understanding of different markets, particularly the US one.”
Kwee Choo NG
She found reassurance in BENEO’s supportive environment, which fosters employee growth and career development. Having built strong rapport with management and colleagues across global offices also gave her confidence. “My desire for personal and professional growth made the decision to relocate easier. The company’s job security and the fact that I have no family dependents also played a key role,” she explains.
Adapting after moving from Singapore to the US: new challenges and daily life
When KC first arrived in New Jersey, she was met with a series of challenges. “The need to obtain a social security number, establish a credit rating, navigate a new tax system, and many other things, was overwhelming,” she recalls.
On a day-to-day basis, she had to get used to things like tipping and driving, which she did not do often in Singapore. In Singapore, she could find everything in one place and travel easily using public transport. In the US, however, she often needs to drive to multiple locations to gather all the ingredients for an Asian meal. However, it was a pleasant surprise that she was able to find Singaporean brands such as Spring Home roti prata, Bobo fish balls, and Prima Taste sauces, which provided a comforting taste of home.
The differences in BENEO’s work culture between Singapore and the US
After working in the US for a few months, KC noted a few differences between the US and Singapore offices. “In Singapore, we have monthly group meetings. Here, however, colleagues are spread across different locations in North and South America. Therefore, our regional sales meetings only happen twice a year. To get a better understanding of the market, I will join the commercial colleagues on their calls to discuss projects and address customer queries. I also regularly participate in calls with the Europe team to ensure alignment,” she explains.
Building personal connections has been another challenge with colleagues spread across the Americas. “In the Singapore office, we saw each other almost every week while the remote nature of the US team made it difficult to build personal connections with everyone. To get to know them better, I realized that informal interactions beyond work were essential. I began to participate in more casual gatherings. And found that I really enjoyed these opportunities to connect on a different level,” she says.
Business operations also differed significantly. “The US office has more direct customer interaction compared to the Asia Pacific region, where BENEO’s sales network partners manage local business,” she noted. “Handling a higher volume of customer inquiries from the sales team and the need for more frequent collaboration with colleagues at headquarters added a layer of complexity to my work. But I see this as an exciting opportunity to deepen my expertise and adapt quickly into my new role.”
Personal reflections on moving from Singapore to the US: building connections and practicing patience
Connecting with people outside of work proved invaluable for KC. “Engaging with neighbours, fellow countrymen, or interest groups can make a big difference,” she said. A prime example is her close bond with her neighbour, who provided comfort during a power outage by inviting her over and sharing stories over some tortillas. Additionally, she enjoys spending time with her neighbour’s son at the local park.
An avid hiker, KC has seamlessly integrated her passion into her new life. She joined a Facebook hiking group and has already embarked on one adventure to Hemlock Falls, one of the top 10 hiking routes in New Jersey. With many more hikes planned, she’s excited to discover more of the US during her free time.
Reflecting on her experience, KC emphasized the importance of open-mindedness and patience. “Frustrations are inevitable during the adjustment period,” she shared, “but it’s crucial to give yourself time to settle in.” She advised seeking guidance from colleagues who have experienced similar relocations. Consulting relocation services can also significantly smoothen the transition.
Conclusion: Outside the comfort zone is where the magic happens
KC’s journey from Singapore to New Jersey is a testament to the enriching experiences that come with stepping out of one’s comfort zone. Her willingness to embrace new challenges, adapt to different work cultures, and build meaningful relationships in a new environment underscores the value of resilience and open-mindedness. Her story aims to inspire anyone considering such a transition. This journey reminds us that, despite its challenges, it offers many opportunities for growth, learning, and unforgettable experiences.