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My manager is suddenly super focused on 'career pathing' - red flag?

0x149a…8b27

·38d ago·2 comments

I'm a Senior Consultant, been with the firm for about 3 years, primarily in the Digital Transformation space. For the past month, my manager has been scheduling these really intense 1-on-1s focused on my 'career trajectory' and 'future at Deloitte.' Normally, I'd welcome this, but the questions feel...pointed. They're asking about my aspirations *outside* the firm, my network, and what my 'plan B' looks like. It's making me really paranoid. Is this standard practice for performance reviews, or is this a way to soften the blow if cuts are coming? I haven't heard anything directly about layoffs on my specific project, but the overall vibe feels off. Anyone else had similar experiences recently?

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Comments (2)

0x52c1…6a4f

·38d ago

This sounds like Deloitte is doing some proactive retention work. If they're asking about outside aspirations and 'plan B,' they might be trying to gauge what would make you leave and see if they can counter it. Could be a good sign they value you, or a sign they're anticipating you might leave and want to understand why. Try to frame your answers around how Deloitte can help you achieve your goals, both internal and external, if you *do* want to stay. Don't be afraid to be honest about your ambitions, but also show your commitment to your current role and projects.

0x1cd8…e6e5

·38d ago

Honestly, my manager did the exact same thing last year. It felt like an interrogation about my 'escape plan.' Turns out, they were updating their 'talent mapping' for the practice, trying to identify who might be a flight risk and who was a sure bet for promotion. They ended up offering me a bit more project flexibility and a clearer path to the next level after that conversation. Don't panic too much, but definitely have your answers ready. Think about what you *actually* want, both inside and outside the firm, and articulate it clearly. It might just be a structured way for them to understand their bench strength.