Work-oriented update

I wrote the basis for this for someone in the Chicago office. I realize that it captures a bunch of what I want to say, so why not share it more broadly?

I am really enjoying the city of São Paulo. I think my experiences in and enjoyment of Mexico City really helps. Yes, it is big, lots of concrete and less safe than the US, but life is so vibrant down here. I guess the tradeoffs work for me.

The office has been amazing at welcoming me and looking out for me. The ACs/CONs have all been great at including me in things and becoming friends (not just a tag-along). I have gelled quickly with the Spanish-speakers (Argentina, Peru, Columbia etc.) because I can integrate seamlessly into their scene. I am less comfortable with the Brazilians (by no fault of theirs, but because of the language) but they have been equally welcoming.

I've had limited exposure to partners, but the couple I have dealt with have been good. CM, the staffing partner, really impressed me with how considerate he was being to a transfer. He was quite busy and had appendicitis the 2nd week I was here so I didn't get to meet with him for a couple weeks. They were clearly looking for the right opportunity for me to maximize value add to our firm, the client and my experience. (I was a little surprised how much my interests were considered). Example: There's a project coming up in Chile and, although it would be easier for me, CM was leaning against it because of how far it would be from São Paulo and the office. After we spoke and I mentioned I like media and tech, it was less than 2 business days before I was working on a great project supporting an IT group at an interesting media company in Brazil!

I'm staffed in Rio de Janeiro which is a 40-minute flight from SP. CM spoke the partner and made it clear I was supposed to be able to make to the office on Fridays and that seems to be the intent. Most people in the office have been happy/surprised by my Portuguese, which makes the classes worth it all the more. Unfortunately, my internal bar is my level of Spanish, which is a bit unrealistic at this point. Working in the language will really help. I had a few client meetings over the last week and they've gone well - understanding the majority of them and actually getting into the conversation. Of course, every once in a while I have one where I either struggle to say something (before my AC steps in and graciously helps out) or where I miss more than I'd like to.