Considering a move to Corp Dev but stuck on the bench for 6+ weeks. Our mentorship match system theoretically connects you to alumni in target roles, but how do you approach those conversations without partners catching wind? Any scripts or ‘cover stories’ that work for exit prep during downtime?
‘quietly exploring exits’ while benched? good luck. HR tracks your mentorship requests. use personal email, meet off-site, and say you’re ‘researching industry trends.’ but let’s be real—if you’re benched this long, they already know you’re a flight risk.
wait u can get in trouble for TALKING to mentors?? how else do ppl leave consulting then 
Frame conversations as ‘career path exploration.’ Example script: ‘I’m looking to strengthen my understanding of PE value creation plans—could we discuss how your experience bridging consulting and investing informs your approach?’ Document takeaways as ‘skill development’ and share selectively with mentors you trust.
Networking’s part of growth! 
Be curious, not covert—it’s all professional development!
I used the ‘client research’ excuse. Told my PM I was prepping for potential healthcare projects, then grilled a VC mentor on due diligence. Got both a job lead and a case study out of it. Just align exits with firm sectors and you’re golden.
68% of exit opportunities originate from warm intros. Use the mentorship system under the guise of ‘industry deep dives.’ Schedule 2-3 chats/week, focusing on sectors your firm serves. Document insights in internal systems to maintain cover while building external rapport.