The counter-offer can burn bridges....

"So, assuming the interview is successful and you are offered the job, what will you do if your current company counteroffer?"

I ask this before every single interview is booked.

The response is normally.....

"Nothing will change - I am so over them now"

"No amount of money will help me love that job / company more"

"I will still struggle with the hours / commute / weekends"

"I still think I will feel undervalued, too little too late"

Then the interview takes place taking the time of busy directors, sometimes on more than one occasion. Work is put in by the company to prepare an attractive offer involving other departments.

The offer is put to the candidate ..... the response is "I need to think it over" then the following day. "My company have made me an offer I cannot refuse"

THE PITFALLS OF STAYING WHERE YOU ARE

If your main reason for leaving is the work culture. No amount of pay hike, compensations, and training opportunities is worth staying if the work environment is not right for you. Also If he only offer is an increase in salary. On balance, your future career growth is at least as important, if not more so, than short term financial gain.

If you do not have a good relationship with your manager your intent to resign may create resentment and a lack of trust even if you choose to stay. Eventually, you could be passed over for promotions or training opportunities if your manager feels you aren’t fully committed to a long-term career at the company.

Finally if he reason the employer is counter-offering is just to avoid the hassle of finding a replacement for you this will not be a solution with longevity. You are simply being asked to stay just to cut down on hiring costs and not because they value and appreciate you, it might be best to head for the exit.

SO HOW SHOULD YOU HANDLE A COUNTER OFFER?

1) Compare the offer with your new job offer.

Examine the counter-offer, and compare it with the offer from your prospective employer. Look at more than just the salary and benefits. Consider which company will help you to develop your career in the long term. Where can you develop most? Which offers more opportunities for progression? Also consider which company best aligns with your values; company culture and vision is an important factor as it can affect how engaged, motivated and happy you are at work.

2) Speak to your Recruitment Consultant

We have been through this process plenty of times before with other candidates and will give you their professional opinion on what else you need to consider. It’s in their interest to help you make the right decision, as their client will be looking for candidates who want to stay long term and progress within their company, not to leave after a few months and go back to their old employer.

3) Revisit your reasons for leaving.

Remind yourself why you looked for a new job in the first place and assess whether the counter-offer will give you everything you need.

4) Trust your gut!

WARNING - ACCEPTING A CO CAN BURN BRIDGES!!!!

Sometimes the company have put in so much effort and time to get to offer stage (and asked the counter offer question!) that this simply irks the hirer(s) - they feel the whole process was simply so you could get a better offer out of your company. They feel let down and disappointed and they will remember.

They may not be so quick to offer an interview the next time round and if they do and its you or another candidate people have long memories.