u/Top_Individual_7461

I’m a graduate hire and still trying to understand corporate dynamics.

A senior on my team recently asked the PM for a project release to switch domains internally. Instead of a standard roll-off, they were met with subtle warnings that pushing to leave could land them on a PIP or tank their performance rating.

Hearing this honestly spooked me, so I want to know:

Is weaponizing PIPs common for release requests? Can a manager actually penalize you for wanting to switch accounts, or is it just a scare tactic to protect billability?

How does internal mobility actually work in reality? If companies advertise internal job postings, why does asking for a transfer treat you like a deserter?

As an early-career engineer, what’s the right protocol? How do you eventually leave a project without burning bridges or inviting retaliation?

(Ps: Used AI to elaborate my points)

I've joined IBM on March 26, and I've been on bench till this date. My question is can i look for a project on my own from IBM internal project portal for my specific band or i just blindly need to rely on my wfm and my people manager? Please can anyone answer this?

I've joined IBM on March 26, and I've been on bench till this date. My question is can i look for a project on my own from IBM internal project portal for my specific band or i just blindly need to rely on my wfm and my people manager? Please can anyone answer this?