Team falling apart?

My Team (BB, sector) has been historically small (13 people) but making good money as a lean and tight-knit team. The last year, churn was super bad ( 1 / quarter). On top, i learned that two people just reneged on offers to join our team and am aware that another 1-2 people are actively looking to move away.

Has anyone ever been in this position? Should I stick it out and get a boost to my „perceived seniority“? Leave the sinking ship? I like my team but the last months have truly been unsustainable. Every team member‘s holiday is getting completely destroyed, mood is shifting and you can tell everyone is on edge.

4 Comments
 

Navigating a situation where your team is experiencing high turnover can indeed be challenging and stressful. Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some considerations and steps you might want to take:

  1. Evaluate the Situation: Before making any decisions, try to understand the root causes of the high turnover. Is it due to management, compensation, work-life balance, or perhaps the overall direction of the business? Understanding the core issues can help you decide whether these are likely to be resolved in the near future.

  2. Consider Your Career Goals: Reflect on how this situation aligns with your long-term career objectives. If gaining perceived seniority in the short term can significantly benefit your career path, it might be worth enduring the current challenges. However, if the instability threatens your professional growth or well-being, looking elsewhere could be the smarter choice.

  3. Communicate with Management: If you haven't already, consider having an open discussion with your superiors about the current state of the team. Express your concerns and see if there are any plans to address the issues causing the high turnover. Their response (or lack thereof) can provide valuable insight into whether staying is a viable option.

  4. Assess the Market: Look into the job market for your sector and role. If opportunities are abundant and potentially offer a better work environment or career progression, it might be time to consider making a move. Conversely, if the market is tight, it could be worth staying and navigating through the current challenges.

  5. Network Internally and Externally: Start building or strengthening your network both within and outside your current organization. This can open up opportunities for internal transfers to more stable teams or external offers when the time is right.

  6. Prepare for Any Outcome: Regardless of your decision, ensure your resume is updated, and you're prepared for potential interviews. This readiness ensures you can act swiftly should an opportunity arise or circumstances worsen.

  7. Prioritize Your Well-being: Lastly, consider the impact of the current situation on your mental and physical health. No job is worth sacrificing your well-being. If the stress and workload are unsustainable, it might be time to prioritize your health and look for opportunities that offer a better balance.

In summary, while the prospect of increased seniority is appealing, it's crucial to weigh it against the sustainability of the current work environment, your career goals, and personal well-being. Sometimes, enduring short-term challenges can lead to long-term gains, but it's essential to ensure you're not staying on a sinking ship without a lifeline.

Sources: Watching others leave early is demoralizing - what do I do?, Stuck at Current Firm, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/private-equity/leave-pe-early-or-stick-it-out-2-years?customgpt=1, The Work Always Gets Done, Stupidly low bonus. Should I jump ship?

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

Never stay on a sinking ship. Even the captain drowns (to your point on trying to leverage the situation for a promo).

What's the reason for the turn in fortunes? Deal makers have left?

Get your CV and deal sheet updated and get it out to headhunters (Dartmouth etc). London hiringnis picking up now.

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