How soon to tell mentor that you are leaving the firm?

Background: I work at a middle market investment bank (less than 500 people nationwide). Joined out of college, been here for nearly 3 years. I'm leaving the firm next summer to join a start up PE shop. Yes, I will make less money in the near term, sure I will have less prestige, more uncertainty, all that jazz. Not important to me.

I am having drinks with my mentor in a few weeks. This guy is the reason I joined the firm and partially why I have remained so long. I don't want to just up and leave without giving him a heads up. I would also like his mentorship, guidance, opinions, and potential investment moving forward. But I dont want to tip off people in the firm too soon about my move (especially because I still want my bonus).

How soon do I tell my mentor? in a few weeks when we sit down or next year (before I tell anyone else but close to my departure date)

3 Comments
 
Best Response

Definitely closer to your planned departure date if you do no want to to get screwed. He is not your best friend or college roommate. He is your mentor who has a business obligation to let other people know if someone is leaving and could impact the business. Even if you trust him, don't put him a situation where he has to keep a secret on your behalf.

 

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