Hello guys,
I think the title already says it but how would you approach a realignment transfer request with your current and potential new MD. Is there a political note to it you need to be aware of or just communicate your reasons? Excited to hear from you guys!
Hi there,
It depends a bit on the culture of your firm, but in most cases, the key is to handle a realignment conversation with transparency and professionalism rather than framing it as dissatisfaction.
The best approach is to prepare a clear, positive rationale focused on your professional growth and fit. Explain that you’ve really valued your current experience but that your skills and long-term goals align more closely with the other practice or team. Emphasize what you hope to contribute there, not what you want to leave behind.
When speaking to your current MD, keep the tone respectful and appreciative. If they sense that you’ve thought this through and are not moving for personal or political reasons, they’re much more likely to support you. With the potential new MD, focus on enthusiasm, what you can bring to the team, and how this move would help the broader firm.
So yes, there’s always a bit of politics involved, but if you communicate early, stay diplomatic, and show that your motivation is growth and impact, it usually goes smoothly.
Do I understand correctly that you're asking how to align the inter office transfer process with the heads of each office?
If yes, then you need to ensure there is a push and a pull.
The 'pull', meaning the accepting office wanting you and there being a couple of Partners requesting you is critical. The 'push' is about the current office being willing to let you go, but typically if you have a good enough reason they don't try and discourage you.
Best,
Cristian
