OUR COMMUNITY

THE CHALLENGES OF BLACK IMMIGRATION

By Kershia Johnson, CIPD

IF YOU’VE MOVED TO THE U.S. FOR WORK in HR from another country, my story is testament that taking a bold chance on your career can be worth it after all! After moving to Chicago from the United Kingdom in 2018, I was worried about the possibility of starting my HR career from the beginning. Even though my last role was as an Employee Relations Specialist for a large global retailer, I wondered if my experience and European certifications* would serve me in the United States.

Deep down I worried that I would have a difficult time acclimating to the move. Despite my nationality being

British, culturally, I was raised Jamaican, with my mother being first-generation Afro-Caribbean from descents who migrated from Jamaica to the U.K. as part of the Windrush generation. It was challenging to connect with fellow Black

Chicagoans in the beginning and I felt like I did not belong here, and I did not fit in. Some people may not understand that Black people here in Chicago and back home are completely different, and at the time of my move, it was challenging to adapt to the American English language, foods, and other cultural nuances.

Once I got my footing, I made some friends and ultimately, I have been able to live and work as my authentic self. At first, looking for work in Chicago was challenging. There were a few things that required me to adjust as I began my search. The laws in the U.S are different in every state, and while some of the employment laws are somewhat similar to the U.K., they are known by entirely different names. There were aspects of HR that were unfamiliar to me including workers comp, health insurance (as it’s free in the U.K.), and FMLA.

In the U.K, background checks are typically only conducted for government-funded positions or roles where individuals work with vulnerable people. In the states, In the states, as a foreign national, with every job change I have to undergo a National and International background check. This can sometimes be problematic, as international checks can typically take up to 8 weeks to complete, therefore prolonging when notice can be given to a current employer.

My first role was as an HR Generalist, and while it was my step in the door, I wasn’t satisfied until I could obtain a position that was as challenging as the position I held in the U.K. I eventually found Black In HR, and after working with their amazing career coaches, I now work as a Global HR Business Partner for a renowned sports company.

I would like to share some tips on transitioning overseas as a Black professional. Although my experience is based on me moving from the U.K, this information applies to anyone in the world who is thinking of relocating to the USA:

Make sure your immigration paperwork is intact, and plan for the costs of the transition, which will range from $3,000 - $5,000 to get started. This excludes moving costs and any need for legal representation.

Begin to build your network with professionals in the city you’re moving to before your move. Online groups like Black In HR, can be a major asset when you want to hit the ground running.

Find a credible person or company that offers resume and coaching services. Professional customs may be very different from what you are used to, and local coaches are in a better position to help you get accustomed to a new culture.

Make sure you understand the difference in pay frequency. I was pleasantly surprised when I was paid biweekly instead of monthly like in the U.K.

Lastly, be optimistic, learn as much as you can about the new culture, and enjoy the journey!

Although my experience is based on me moving from the U.K, this information applies to anyone in the world who is thinking of relocating to the USA.

Despite some of the challenges I mentioned earlier, such as paying for healthcare and the cost of living being higher, the United States has tons more opportunities, higher salaries and great foods to explore.

If the USA is one of your options, I highly recommend taking a chance! u

*CIPD is equivalent to SHRM and is recognized in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Global American Organizations.