On a PIP ending in 2 weeks, just got an internal lateral offer - Please Help!

I'm an analyst at a bulge bracket bank and am being managed out via a PIP due to a difficult relationship with a single senior on my team. My broader reputation at the firm is strong, and my performance reviews / work with other seniors have been positive.

As soon as the PIP was initiated, I began recruiting and have secured a verbal offer for an internal transfer to a different group. The new team is moving forward with HR to get the headcount approved, but I do not have a written offer yet.

My concern is that my PIP concludes in a few weeks, and I will likely be terminated before the transfer is finalized. The new team is unaware of the PIP.

What is the best way to manage this situation to ensure the internal transfer happens successfully? Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

6 Comments
 

To navigate this tricky situation effectively, here’s what you should do based on the most helpful WSO content:

  1. Discretion is Key: Avoid disclosing the PIP to the new team unless absolutely necessary. The new team’s perception of you should remain based on your broader reputation and positive performance reviews.

  2. Accelerate the Process: Work closely with HR and the new team to expedite the headcount approval and formalize the offer. Politely but persistently follow up with HR and the hiring manager to ensure the process moves as quickly as possible.

  3. Leverage Your Network: If you have strong relationships with senior members in the new group or other influential individuals at the firm, consider discreetly reaching out to them for support. Their backing could help push the transfer through faster.

  4. Stay Professional in Your Current Role: Even though you’re on a PIP, maintain professionalism and focus on delivering quality work. This will help preserve your reputation and avoid giving your current team any additional reasons to expedite your termination.

  5. Prepare for Contingencies: If the transfer isn’t finalized before the PIP ends, you may need to have a candid conversation with HR. Frame it as a desire to continue contributing to the firm in a different capacity, emphasizing your positive relationships and performance outside of the conflict with the senior.

  6. Exit Strategy: If termination becomes unavoidable, consider negotiating a short extension or transition period with HR to allow the transfer process to complete. Highlight the mutual benefit of retaining you within the firm.

By staying proactive, professional, and discreet, you can maximize your chances of successfully securing the internal transfer. Good luck!

Sources: Minimum Time Before Lateralling?, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/lateral-internally-from-st-ft-to-ibd-ft-bb-tips-story-and-advice?customgpt=1, JP Morgan Internal Mobility.. For Interns?, How To Pull Off An Internal Transfer, How To Pull Off An Internal Transfer

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

I don't actually know anyone in HR so should I email a general HR email or try to find someone in the directory from HR?

 

I wouldn’t just email a random person, I would try to spend time figuring someone who can help. If the new team is giving a verbal offer, see if someone on the new team knows of someone in HR you can talk to. If need be, you can find an analyst in HR and reach out via email or teams and mention you wanted to chat and discuss something.

 

Can I please DM you to discuss some details? Thanks for the advice so far - I have reached out to HR. 

 

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