What You Need To Know About Oxford’s Work Opportunities
Firstly, if you are going into Oxford actively looking for employment, then you are certainly going to the right place. Oxford is not only one of the UK’s most major tourism hotspots, but it is also one of the largest business hubs in the south of England. This means that there are many employers looking to hire talented and highly driven people.
Of course, Oxford is best known for Oxford University and Oxford Brookes University, meaning the education sector is one of the most integral parts of the city’s makeup. But apart from this, there are plenty of notable jobs in politics, science, law, and the creative industry. Of course, Oxford marked the beginnings of artists like JRR Tolkien, CS Lewis, Hugh Grant and even one of Britain’s most popular bands, Radiohead. If none of that is your cup of tea, however, then Oxford’s reputation with tourists means there are plenty of retail and hospitality jobs to get your teeth into and begin your progression.
What You Need To Consider If You Are Starting Your Own Business
If you are moving to Oxford and hoping to kickstart your own business, then this is also perfectly achievable. The most important means of doing this will be through extensive research of the local area, rival businesses and potential custom. In short, you should go beyond just this guide if you want to be successful. As mentioned previously, Oxford is one of England’s key business hubs, which means that there will almost definitely be competition. Look at what this opposition is doing, what they are achieving, where they might be failing, and then learn how you can set your own business apart from them.
Oxford might be a pretty and reputable place to base your business, but that does not mean it is necessarily the right place. Who is your target market? For instance, will the people or businesses of Oxford take to your services better than places like London, Cardiff or Glasgow? If the answer is yes, then that’s great, but you will also need to learn exactly how those people should be marketed to.
In other words, don’t just assume the business will come to you. In order to be successful, you need to put in the hard grafts and be prepared to collaborate with people who know what they are doing in that area. Look at your marketing scheme, aim to work with a web design agency in Oxford, and ensure your content and outreach is hitting all the right areas. Apart from this, when you are all set up and ready to go, make sure to keep integrating with the local business community. Also, remember that the Oxford chamber of commerce can be incredibly helpful to connect with others, boost interest in your company and drive investment to the door of the city.
What You Need To Know About Living In Oxford
When it comes to living in Oxford, the first thing you need to work out is where exactly you will be renting or buying. There are a lot of places to live in Oxford, all of which boast beautiful architecture, luscious surroundings and friendly communities. Below are just a few to help you get an idea:
Botley
If you are working in the city and are looking for a residential suburb to put your feet up at the end of the day, then Botley could be the perfect option for you. Located on the Seacourt Stream, which runs off the famous River Thames, Botley is a quiet, small town, but with easy and convenient links into the centre. It has some well-regarded schools and a plethora of open, green spaces for walks and activities.
- Average house price in Botley – £517,358
- Average rental price in Botley – £1,483
Jericho
Alternatively, Jericho is one of the most popular and trendy places to live in Oxford, with a perfect balance between a rural and urban lifestyle. It is filled with old, Victorian houses, with trendy shopping centres, bars and restaurants, and a real buzz about the place. It can be a prime area for any young professional looking to get integrated into the town and make connections.
- Average house price in Jericho – £1,124,824
- Average rental price in Jericho – £2,050
Headington
If you are looking for something like Jericho, but don’t want to fork out too much cash for rent, then Headington is also worth looking into. This is an eastern suburb which is home to the Oxford Brookes University, giving the town a vibrant, youthful energy despite the traditional, old architecture which surrounds you. It is also sat upon the top of Headington hill, which will give you a beautiful view of the city below.
- Average house price in Headington – £473,160
- Average rental price in Headington – £1,641
Whilst none of the living costs are necessarily cheap, Oxford is still a top place to live in the UK due to the stunning landscapes, bustling communities and ambitious businesses. You are sure to find some beautiful flats or houses that can accommodate you and allow you to easily slip into the heart of the city.
What You Need To Do To Make The Most Out Of Oxford
Whilst you are living in Oxford, then you want to make the most out of the city. If you are into sports, then there are many local clubs you can get involved in. Oxford University itself has grounds and venues which can be rented out when students are taking a break from studying. This could be good for your business, especially if you are looking to make connections or build the engagement of your employees. Renting out a ground for an afternoon of cricket can be a great way to have some fun, whilst also being practical for the development of long-lasting relationships.
There are also many places to visit if you want to soak in the local culture and ambience. If you are a keen fisherman, then the Trout Inn is an absolute must. With a myriad of fish replicas on the wall and a fast flowing river just on the doorstep, it is full of atmosphere, joyful chatter and, of course, fantastic locally sourced food. If you are a keen walker and worry you might miss the great, green outdoors, then the Meadow near Oxford University is a beautiful and scenic spot to take a stroll and lose yourself for a few hours. There is even a swimming spot to take a dip in when the weather is warm.
How To Become One With The City
If you want to truly become one with Oxford, then make sure to get yourself integrated into the local community. There are often community based events that are put on by the Oxford Council, such as the recent jubilee street parties, or sometimes there are other, more bizarre events like the Oxford Tortoise Race. This is a traditional race that involves Oxford’s most beloved pet: the tortoise. It might sound a bit out there, but it’s a lot of fun and a great way to meet some new people and, well, tortoises.
As well as this, local pubs and bars are an easy way to become involved in the community and have a drink with a few new friends. If you are a creative type, then you can’t get much better than The Eagle And Child, which is where JRR Tolkien and CS Lewis met to discuss what would become infamous pieces of twentieth-century writing. Try to be inventive with what bars and pubs you investigate. Research does not have to be done solely by scrolling through the internet. For instance, the famous author Philip Pullman set ‘His Dark Materials’ in Oxford, and there are a myriad of beautiful, scenic places that are mentioned in the books which you can explore and get to know in the flesh.
Making acquaintances, both in and outside of work, is important and easily done within the walls of this city. You should make sure to give yourself a 50/50 work-to-life balance if you want your business and personal life to truly flourish and succeed. But there’s no doubt Oxford can provide that. Whatever you choose to do and wherever you choose to go, Oxford is a gorgeous, unique city which is just waiting to bring your dreams to life.
