On Transition program at MBB (after being fired)

Hi there!

Happy to provide a perspective on these questions:

1. What are the things that I need to discuss with them? Especially something that most people overlook

Be honest with them and use this as an opportunity to reflect on your goals and where you want to go. Being fired can also be a career opportunity if it enables you to recalibrate and me more aligned with your aspirations. 

2.Should I expect regular catchup (e.g weekly) with them during my transition program?

It depends on the firm and the office. Weekly sounds about right. Twice per month is more typical.

3. Currently, they are giving me 2 months transition period (100% salary). I am thinking to negotiate with them by asking for either 4 months (50% sallary) or 3 months (100% sallary). Which one should I pursue?

It depends on what you want to optimise for. 

Basically, as far as I understand it, you want more time to have a smoother transition. So then the first option is better than the first because it involves the same total compensation. So what you're negotiating with them is the timeline not the actual compensation (whereas the second option involves negotiating both).

4. On the negotiation part, I am thinking to give several reasons such as market condition, my background and personal issue which make 2 months might not be enough. Any other negotiation strategies that I should aware of?

Check out ‘Never Split The Difference’. You might find it super useful.

Best,
Cristian

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Hi, 

I'm sorry to hear about your situation, and I understand that this is a challenging time for you. Here are some recommendations regarding your upcoming meeting with a career service representative and the negotiation for your transition period:

Discuss with the Career Service Representative:

• Career Transition Support: Discuss the specific resources and support that the career service center can provide during your job search. This may include resume and cover letter reviews, interview coaching, networking assistance, and access to job listings.
• Personalized Action Plan: Work with the representative to create a personalized action plan for your job search. Identify your career goals, target companies or industries, and strategies for reaching out to potential employers.
• Networking Guidance: Seek advice on effective networking strategies, including leveraging your professional network, attending industry events, and utilizing online platforms like LinkedIn.
• Skill Enhancement: If there are specific skills or certifications that can enhance your job prospects, inquire about opportunities to acquire or strengthen them during your transition period.
• Emotional Support: Discuss any emotional or psychological support that the career service center may offer to help you cope with the stress and challenges of your transition.

Expectation of Regular Catch-Ups:

• Clarify with the career service representative about the frequency and structure of catch-up meetings. While weekly catch-ups may be helpful during the early stages of your transition, it's essential to establish a clear schedule that works for both parties. Regular communication can help you stay on track and receive ongoing support.

Negotiating Transition Period:

• Before negotiating for a longer transition period, consider your financial needs, job prospects, and the job market's current conditions. A 100% salary for 2 months is a generous offer, and extending it to 4 months at 50% or 3 months at 100% would significantly impact your finances.
• If you believe that a longer transition period is necessary, emphasize your reasons clearly and professionally. Highlight any unique circumstances or challenges that make a longer period more reasonable.
• Be open to compromise. It's possible that your employer may be willing to extend the transition period to some extent, even if it's not for the full duration you're requesting. Be prepared to negotiate based on their response.

Negotiation Strategies:

• Present a well-reasoned case: Clearly articulate your reasons for requesting an extended transition period, focusing on factors that are both reasonable and relevant to your situation.
• Demonstrate value: Emphasize the value you bring to the organization during the extended period, such as assisting with knowledge transfer or training a replacement.
• Be professional and respectful: Approach the negotiation with professionalism and a positive attitude. Maintain open and constructive communication with your employer.

Remember that negotiation is a two-way process, and your employer's decision may be influenced by various factors. Be prepared for different outcomes, and remain flexible in your approach. The career service representative can also provide guidance on negotiation strategies and help you navigate this process.

All the best

Marvin

Hi there,

1. What are the things that I need to discuss with them? Especially something that most people overlook

Just make sure you're getting all of their materials and support. Follow their instructions and guidance, follow-up with questions, and put in the work to allow them to help you.

2.Should I expect regular catchup (e.g weekly) with them during my transition program? I am sure it will be discussed but I want to ensure that I got what I entitle

They will tell you…

That said, feel free to “push” to get more if you feel they are not doing a enough. Also, please take the word “entitled” out here. In reality, you are not “entitled” to anything. Enter this humbly and with appreciation (most firms don't do what MBB do when firing)

3. Currently, they are giving me 2 months transition period (100% salary). I am thinking to negotiate with them by asking for either 4 months (50% sallary) or 3 months (100% sallary). Which one should I pursue?

I believe you asked this earlier. They are very unlikely to let you tell them how to fire you. 4 months at 50% is more likely to be accepted than 3 months at 100% (but, if you feel strongly, you are allowed to try)

4. On the negotiation part, I am thinking to give several reasons such as market condition, my background and personal issue which make 2 months might not be enough. Any other negotiation strategies that I should aware of?

In general, this makes sense. The most important things is HOW you do this. As in, the wording you choose. In what order. And how you respond to their counter - be prepared for the whole scenario, not just your initial ask. That's the key with negotiations.