That is what conversations are made for :)

The way I would approach it would be simple. Request a conversation, explain the situation, tell them that if they decide on maintaining the date that is fine with you, but check if they would be kind enough to allow you to take that opportunity.

By the way, you may have a bit of leverage here. Not sure why you are starting so far away from your offer date. One option would be to ask if they can either anticipate or postpone - i.e., if they can't anticipate, it would be good for you to be able to take on that project until the end (and for that they would need to postpone).

(editiert)

Hi there,

Congrats on the offer!

Yes, absolutely you can have this conversation. Ask them for a call (much better discussed in person).

Try to ask for the delay for “personal” reasons. Say you are flexible and will ultiamtely do whatever they need.

If they ask for more details, say there is a project you need to finish and that it's really important for you as a professional to leave things finished. This can only be viewed positively (you don't quit/leave).

Don't frame it as you want to learn and it's interesting. Frame it as you believe in finishing projects and don't want to leave the client/firm hanging.

Hi there,

I don't think there is a risk of jeopardizing anything. Best case is you get what you ask for. Worst case is you start in May and you cut your next assignment with your current company short. I agree with the others that you should have this conversation as a call rather than via e-mail.

Also, make sure that you notify your current company sufficiently early about your upcoming departure to also not burn any bridges with anyone. If they staff you on such a long project, they are probably not yet aware of your plans to leave - this specifically applies to managers or partners on the project who might take your availabilty for granted in their planning.

Best of luck

Hi there,

Q: What is the best approach for requesting a delay in the entry date? 

I would call HR and ask about it over the phone. It is totally fine to ask, worst case they will say there is no option for it, however most companies are flexible in terms of the starting date.

Good luck!

Francesco

Hi there,

First of all, congratulations on the offer!

I would be happy to share my thoughts on your situation:

• First of all, it's important to communicate transparently with your future employer. Explain the situation clearly and professionally, highlighting why you think completing the current project is beneficial. Emphasize your commitment to the new role and how this experience will add value.
• Moreover, consider proposing a specific new start date, like July or August, as you mentioned. This shows that you are serious and have thought through your request. It's better than leaving the date open-ended.
• Lastly, be prepared for any outcome. While many firms are flexible, some might not be able to accommodate such requests due to their own planning and resource allocation.

If you would like a more detailed discussion on your specific situation, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

Hi there,

Congrats! Great position to be in! :-)

As the other coaches have pointed out, you are overthinking this a bit. 

Just call up your primary HR contact and explain the situation. If they say yes, that is great, If not, you would need to roll off the current project sooner. Not ideal but still with the new job lined up.

All the best,

Florian

Hi there!

I would absolutely not be worried about it. 

What you need to do is reach out to the firm that you'll be joining and be transparent with them. I'm sure they will be flexible about the starting date given your motivation.

Best of luck in the new role and hope you enjoy the coming project!
Cristian

Hey,

Yes, it's absolutely ok to postpone a starting date in consulting.
Just be straightforward about it with an HR and agree on the option which is best both for you and the firm.

Good luck in your new role!
Nick