You're faced with a tempting counteroffer. How can you decline while maintaining professionalism?

Thank the employer for the counteroffer and express your appreciation for their support. Politely state that you have decided to pursue a new opportunity that better aligns with your career goals.

When you get a counteroffer, take a moment to think about why you wanted to leave in the first place. If those reasons still matter, they need real answers, not just a quick fix. Focus on what will help you grow and be happy in your career, and don’t be afraid to share what you need. Remember, it’s about choosing what’s right for your future, not just what sounds good right now.

Old adage in recruitment is "X% of people leave within 6 months of accepting a counter offer", and obviously we don't have the exact statistics, but it does happen a lot, because most of the time people's reasons for leaving are Cultural / Professional Development related, and the reason for staying is due to Money!

Dear [Manager's Name], I want to sincerely thank you for the generous counteroffer and the confidence you’ve shown in me. I have given it thoughtful consideration, but after careful reflection, I have decided to move forward with my new opportunity. This decision was not easy, as I have truly enjoyed working here and appreciate the support and opportunities you’ve provided. However, I feel that this next step aligns more closely with my long-term personal and professional goals. I’m committed to ensuring a smooth transition and will do everything I can to wrap up my responsibilities. Thank you again for your understanding and support.

When declining a counteroffer, express gratitude for the opportunity and acknowledge the employer's efforts, then clearly state your decision to move on, keeping the focus on your professional growth. Maintain a respectful tone to preserve the relationship.

Do it in writing if you feel that this is easier to convey what you want to say. Even if you are going to do it in person, write it down first so you know what you are going to say. Be honest about the positive and negative reasons, but remember to not unnecessarily burn bridges, as you never know where you'll be in the future, or who you will come across again in the future!

When communicating your decision, schedule a conversation with your manager. For example, you might say, "I truly appreciate the counteroffer, but after careful consideration, I've decided to pursue the new opportunity. I value the time and experience gained here and hope we can keep in touch for future possibilities." This keeps the tone respectful and professional while clearly stating your decision.

I would say it’s really important to thank your employer for their counteroffer, even if you decide to move on. Recognising what you’ve learned during your time there shows your professionalism and keeps the door open for future connections. A simple thank you for their support can go a long way in preserving a positive relationship, which might just lead to valuable references or opportunities later on. It's all about leaving on good terms!

100% pick out some learning and development that you have had during your time with them (if you can!!), and thank them for the time, opportunity and development, as your time with them is why you got this next role / job. If they are a good manager / company / person, they will understand and respect your decision, and not take it personally.

I would say it’s vital to establish clear boundaries after sharing your decision, so everyone can move forward comfortably. Politely let your employer know that your choice is final and that you want to focus on making your transition as smooth as possible. This respectful approach not only helps you avoid any awkward conversations but also shows that you value both your time and theirs. Keeping things clear and professional can make the process much easier for everyone involved.

Just be clear each way, if there is something that they can "put on the table" that would sway your decision towards accepting a counter offer, then be clear and direct with what that is. If it is 100% a no, then yes you have to be clear in writing about your decision, your end date / notice etc, and again thank for their time. Be concise as makes it more matter of fact

I believe offering to help with the transition process can really ease the impact of your departure. Whether it's training a replacement or documenting processes, your willingness to assist reflects positively on your professional character. It also provides a constructive way to conclude your time with the company, reinforcing a positive image and leaving on good terms. Your thoughtful approach to declining the counteroffer and aiding in the transition will be remembered long after you've moved on.

Give notice, offer to help with the hiring / training process, give constructive feedback around the role / company etc and why you are leaving, and even recommend the excellent recruiter that found you your new role!

Offering to assist with the transition process can help ease the impact of your departure. Whether it's training a replacement or documenting key processes, your willingness to help reflects well on your professional character. This approach not only allows you to wrap up your time at the company positively but also helps maintain a good relationship. Your professional handling of the counteroffer and your support during the transition will leave a lasting impression, even after you've moved on.