delaying FT start by a year due to mental health

Navigating this situation requires a thoughtful and strategic approach to ensure your mental health is prioritized while minimizing any potential risks to your offer. Based on the most helpful WSO content, here’s how you can handle this:

1. Assess Your Options Before Contacting HR:

   • Before reaching out to HR, consider whether there are alternative solutions that might allow you to start on time while addressing your mental health challenges. For example, could you reduce your courseload, seek professional support, or take a short leave of absence from school to focus on recovery?

2. Understand the Firm’s Policies:

   • Some firms, like Evercore, have been known to offer flexibility with start dates, even providing financial incentives for delays in certain cases. While this may not directly apply to your situation, it suggests that firms can be open to accommodating requests under the right circumstances. Research whether your firm has a precedent for deferring start dates or supporting employees in similar situations.

3. Frame Your Request Thoughtfully:

   • When you approach HR, be transparent but professional. Emphasize that you are committed to the firm and excited about the opportunity but need to prioritize your health to ensure you can perform at your best. Avoid oversharing personal details; instead, focus on how this decision will ultimately benefit both you and the firm.

   Example Script: > "I wanted to reach out regarding my start date. I’m incredibly excited to join the team and contribute to the firm’s success. However, due to some personal challenges, I believe that deferring my start date by a year would allow me to address these issues and ensure I’m fully prepared to give my best when I join. I wanted to explore whether this might be an option and discuss how we can work together to make this transition as smooth as possible."

4. Be Prepared for Potential Outcomes:

   • While many firms are understanding, there is always a risk that a request to delay could lead to complications, especially as a lateral hire. To mitigate this, ensure you have a backup plan in case the firm is unable to accommodate your request. This could include exploring other opportunities or considering a short-term role to bridge the gap.

5. Seek Support from Mentors or Trusted Contacts:

   • If you have a mentor or trusted contact within the firm, consider discussing your situation with them before approaching HR. They may provide valuable insights or advocate on your behalf.

6. Prioritize Your Mental Health:

   • Regardless of the outcome, your mental health should remain your top priority. If delaying your start date is essential for your well-being, it’s worth pursuing, even if it feels risky. Remember, your long-term success depends on your ability to perform at your best, which requires being in a good mental space.

Taking these steps can help you navigate this delicate situation while maintaining professionalism and protecting your future career prospects.

Sources: Minimum Time Before Lateralling?, PE Lateral Recruiting Advice/Stories/Help?, Overwhelmed here, words of wisdom would help, Evercore paying up to $25,000 to delay start date