So you’ve got a counter offer… what the heck do you do?

You’ll be sensing a theme here in these blogs. They’re all answering questions Job Seekers all over the world have asked themselves and no one making these decisions really knows what they’re doing - including me!

But I’m going to do my best to break down what I’d advise my best friend to do, after 9 years in recruitment!

When you go to hand in your resignation, your current employer makes a counteroffer. You're thinking, "What the bleeping heck do I do now?" Well don't worry, we're here to help you navigate this tricky situation with some straightforward, research-backed steps.

Understanding your Counteroffer

A counteroffer is an offer made by your current employer to persuade you to stay after you've announced your intention to leave. It might include a salary increase, additional benefits, or a new job title. While it can be flattering to receive a counteroffer, it's crucial to consider all aspects before making a decision.

Why Are They Making a Counteroffer?

Employers make counteroffers for various reasons. They might want to avoid the cost and inconvenience of finding a replacement, or they value your contributions and don't want to lose you. Understanding why your employer has made a counteroffer can provide valuable context for your decision.

Should I Accept the Counteroffer? The Pros and Cons.

Now this is the step I think people should spend the most time on - weighing up the Pros & Cons.

Accepting a counteroffer can seem attractive at first glance. After all, it might come with a higher salary, better benefits, or more challenging responsibilities. However, it's crucial to look beyond the immediate glamour of the counteroffer and consider the potential downsides.

Firstly, consider the reasons you wanted to leave in the first place. If you were unhappy with the company culture, management style, or your role, will these issues be addressed? A counteroffer might not change the fundamental aspects of your job that made you consider leaving.

Secondly, consider the implications for your relationship with your employer. Accepting a counteroffer after announcing your intention to leave might cause your employer to question your loyalty. This could potentially impact your future opportunities within the company.

Lastly, remember that a counteroffer is often a reactive measure from your employer. It's important to consider whether the changes promised in the counteroffer are sustainable in the long term, or just a quick fix to persuade you to stay.

Weighing these pros and cons can help you make an informed decision that aligns with your career goals and personal satisfaction.

Questions to Ask Yourself

Now you’ve got your Pros and Cons shaped up, its time to ask your self some hard truths.

Before accepting a counteroffer, it's crucial to take a step back and ask yourself some key questions. These questions can help you see beyond the immediate allure of the counteroffer and consider the long-term implications for your career and job satisfaction.

1. Why did you want to leave in the first place? Reflect on the reasons that led you to seek a new job. Was it due to a lack of growth opportunities, dissatisfaction with the company culture, issues with management, or a desire for a higher salary or better work-life balance? Understanding your motivations for leaving can help you assess whether a counteroffer will truly address your concerns.
2. Will a higher salary or better benefits address these issues? If your main reason for leaving was a higher salary or better benefits, a counteroffer might seem very attractive. However, if your reasons were more about job satisfaction, career growth, or issues with the company culture or management, it's important to consider whether these issues can be resolved with a counteroffer. Remember, no amount of money can compensate for a job where you're fundamentally unhappy.
3. How will your relationship with your employer and colleagues change if you stay? Accepting a counteroffer after you've announced your intention to leave can change the dynamics of your relationships at work. Your employer might question your loyalty, and your colleagues might view you differently. Consider whether you're comfortable with these potential changes and whether they might impact your job satisfaction and career progression.
4. Are the changes promised in the counteroffer sustainable? Sometimes, a counteroffer might include promises of changes in your role, responsibilities, or the workplace environment. It's important to consider whether these changes are realistic and sustainable in the long term, or just a quick fix to persuade you to stay.

By asking yourself these questions and reflecting on the answers, you can gain clarity and make a decision that aligns with your career goals and personal satisfaction.

And finally, how the heck do you break the news of your decision?

Whether you decide to accept or decline a counteroffer, it's essential to handle the situation professionally:

• If you accept the counteroffer: Thank your employer for the opportunity and discuss the next steps to implement the changes promised in the counteroffer.
• If you decline the counteroffer: Express your appreciation for the offer and reaffirm your decision to leave. Ensure the conversation is respectful and maintains the relationship for future professional interactions.

Remember, preserving positive relationships in your professional network is always beneficial, regardless of your decision.

The Wrap Up Navigating the world of counteroffers can be complex, but with careful consideration and self-reflection, you can make the decision that's right for you. Remember, it's not just about the money—it's about your career satisfaction and professional growth.

I hope you leave your predicament feeling that you made the right decision but I do need to share this because what would be the point of creating a mildly funny series for Linked In if I didn’t chuck it up with my blog too???? It would be wasted!

Please don’t let this put you off accepting the counteroffer if it feels right for you ??

Please enjoy my series on the 5 stages of Grief: Counter Offer Edition

Please message me if you’d like a sounding board re: a counter offer!