Moving to a competitor

Question

So recently I just made an internal transfer to a role which Im hoping to transition into in the future. However, my current company isn’t that great in that particular sector of consulting and is actually trying to grow its presence. It’s a laggard in the local scene.

I am only about a month plus into the role and just doing BD work at the moment while they are sourcing for clients. I was intending to move to a competitor which is better in the field but they prefer to hire experienced candidate. I do not have much experience to offer in relation to the role as I just moved but overall have more than 3 years experience in other area of consulting which is transferable. it’s the technical aspect which I feel I’m lacking.

Moreover the competitor requires a professional reference from a supervisor and a peer. Since my current company is the first employer i worked after graduating, it will be awkward to request from them.

Any advice anyone can offer? Am in the Big 4 consulting btw.

Answer 1

Hi there,

It sounds like you're doing well! Essentially, you should keep performing well in your current role + working hard while you simultaneously keep the door open for new opportunities.

Make sure to keep a pulse on how well the company is doing - if they haven't won any work for a long time and you're still in BD, then you definitely need to jump ship. If not, then get the experience!

Answer 2

"Moreover the competitor requires a professional reference from a supervisor and a peer."

This is very akward. I would apply without this, as it shouldn't be expected that one flags its own employer that is trying to move to the competition.

Regarding your situation, it can be a blessing (the company grows in that segment and you quickly become one of the most experienced people there) or a curse (the company is unsuccessful in the segment and after one year you don't have relevant experience in the field and that will reflect on how you answer on the behavioral interview).

So, if they have strong people trying to develop the business, stay. Otherwise, move.