“I found my mentoring session with André very helpful, particularly because I came into it with very little understanding of commercial banking. My background is in life sciences and healthcare, and most of my career exploration so far has focused on consulting. Although I had become interested in commercial banking, I had not previously explored the area in any depth. I therefore needed a clear starting point and an honest conversation about what I should understand before deciding whether to pursue it.
André helped me establish that starting point. The session gave me a clearer way to think about commercial banking, how it differs from consulting, and what I still need to learn. Before the conversation, I was looking at opportunities and wondering whether I should begin applying alongside consulting applications. Afterwards, I understood that I needed to take a step back and make a more informed decision about whether the work genuinely interests me.
One of the most valuable aspects of the session was how it helped me recognise the gaps in my current understanding. I knew that I was new to banking, but I did not necessarily know which questions I needed to answer for myself. André’s guidance helped me think more clearly about where I am now, what I am missing, and what I should begin doing next. Having that direction was useful because it made the process feel more manageable. Rather than treating banking as a broad and unfamiliar industry, I now have a clearer starting point for learning about it.
A particularly helpful message was that I should first develop a better understanding of commercial banking and assess whether I actually like the work. I took away a sensible sequence: understand the area, decide whether it appeals to me, and then, if it does, commit to learning and preparing for applications. If I discover that the work does not suit my interests, I should be willing to recognise that and focus my efforts elsewhere. That advice sounds straightforward, but it was an important perspective for me at this stage.
The conversation made me realise that I should not rush into applying for commercial banking roles simply because I have found programmes that look interesting. Before the session, I was at risk of moving too quickly from curiosity to applications without having a strong enough understanding of the career itself. André helped me see the value of being more deliberate. I would rather make a considered application based on a genuine interest in the work than spend time applying to positions I cannot yet explain my motivation for pursuing.
Another important takeaway was recognising how substantial the differences between banking and consulting can be. Because consulting has been my main focus, it had become my reference point when thinking about other careers. The session helped me realise that I cannot assume banking will involve similar work, suit the same preferences, or require exactly the same preparation. I need to understand banking on its own terms rather than view it mainly as another option alongside consulting.
I also appreciated that the session was useful even though I did not finish it with a final career decision. At this exploratory stage, greater clarity about what I do not yet know is meaningful progress. I now feel better equipped to evaluate my interest, identify what I need to learn, and decide whether commercial banking deserves a more focused place in my career plans.
Overall, André was very helpful, and the session met an important need for me as someone starting with limited knowledge of the field. Its greatest value was giving me direction and encouraging a more thoughtful approach to my next steps. I left with a clearer understanding of my knowledge gaps, a more realistic perspective on the difference between banking and consulting, and a better sense of how to move forward before committing to applications.”
Based on the most helpful WSO content, extending probation periods is not unheard of, though the practices can vary significantly across industries and even more so from one country to another. In the context of the finance and consulting sectors, which are highly performance-driven, probation extensions can occur for several reasons. Here are a few insights that might shed light on why this happens:
Performance Evaluation: Sometimes, an extension is given because the company believes the employee shows potential but hasn't fully met the expectations set for the initial probation period. This extra time allows for further assessment of the employee's capabilities and fit within the company.
Economic or Organizational Changes: External factors such as economic downturns or internal restructuring within the company can lead to probation extensions. These are less about the individual's performance and more about the company buying time to make informed decisions regarding staffing.
Regulatory and Contractual Aspects: In some countries, labor laws and contractual agreements might influence the decision to extend probation periods. Companies might use extensions as a flexible approach to navigate these regulations while assessing workforce needs.
Training and Development Needs: If the role requires highly specialized skills or if the employee needs more time for training, a probation extension can provide the necessary timeframe for this development to occur.
While it might seem unusual, especially if you haven't encountered it in your experience or heard of it happening in other firms, it's not necessarily a negative reflection on the employees or the company. It's important to communicate openly with HR or management to understand the specific reasons behind such decisions in your firm.
In the context of a T2 consultancy in Germany, it's also worth considering any local labor laws or cultural practices that might influence this approach to probation periods. Networking with peers within your industry or even discussing this in professional forums could provide additional insights and help you navigate this situation more effectively.
Sources: Strangest thing you've seen/heard at work?, Strangest thing you've seen/heard at work?, How To Quit Your Job (And Still Win), Fired but pretending to be employed - Background check
Not a good sign
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