Hey there,

The reality of corporate life is you will have to navigate these kind of challenges in your career. My advice would be to have patience and keep in touch with your mentor and director, periodically share your career aspirations and voice out your concerns. 

Thanks 

Sorry, I don't have a crystal ball nor a magic wand. The only people who really know the answer (or that can give you more clarity) are your mentor, the responsible director or maybe the staffing manager. You have to approach them. 

Regarding how… just be direct. You want to have client and project exposure. Just ask the question and ask to be staffed.

Hi there,

This is a tough situation!

Now, you started in July and it's still July, so I wouldn't panic just yet. They need a project to put you on - these things take time.

The best way to get put on a project is to continue being (politely) vocal. Let your mentor, staffing manager, development manager, etc. know you're excited to get staffed. Keep getting to know and meet people (especially project leads, etc.) at events so that they know who you are and think to staff you.

It's a bit of a waiting game, but keep at it and you'll get staffed!

Hi there,

1) Any advice on how should I ask my mentor what the director has in mind regarding my development plan?

You may actually ask the director (or direct manager above you) in a polite way. It is important you don’t show you “pretend” something given you just joined and show genuine curiosity for what could happen in the next months – this will let the director/manager open up on his/her vision.

2) When also should I expect to be plotted on actual engagement?

I don’t think you can get an answer from us on this ;) However, when you will have the above conversation with your director/manager, he should be able to tell you.

Best,

Francesco

Hello,

My advice would be to be open and direct with your mentor and director. You mentioned that you joined the team in July, so you have only been there for a few weeks. Given that projects take time to staff up, it's perfectly normal to be on BD for a little while initially. If you feel that there is an issue beyond this standard timing question, I would recommend having a conversation about it with your mentor and see what they suggest. If this issue continues to persist for longer (e.g. over a month), I would recommend directly talking to the director.

Hi there, 

I would suggest you use the mentor as somebody who can provide guidance, but eventually you'll need to actually develop a joint development plan with the Director yourself. 

Try and set up a meeting with them. Be open about your aspirations and align with them on what would be necessary to close that gap. 

Best,

Cristian