Counter Offer
As a recruitment business, we understand the excitement and relief that comes with receiving a job offer from a company you want to work for. However, we also know that sometimes your current employer may counter-offer in an attempt to retain you. Handling counter offers can be tricky, but with the right approach, you can navigate them effectively. Here are some tips:
Assess Your Motivations
Consider why you were leaving your current job in the first place. Are those reasons resolved by the counteroffer, or are they still valid? Evaluate the Offer Objectively.
Compare the counteroffer with the new offer. Consider not just the salary, but also the benefits, career growth opportunities, company culture, and work-life balance. Think Long-Term.
Consider the long-term implications of accepting a counteroffer. Will staying in your current role help you achieve your career goals or is the new opportunity a better fit?
Understand the Employer’s Perspective
Employers often make counter offers because it's easier and cheaper to keep you than to hire someone new. It means they will retain your knowledge of the company, clients and processes.
It minimises the costs of hiring and training a replacement.
It avoids passing extra workload onto the rest of the team.
It also maintains employee morale and team relationships.
Be Prepared for Possible Outcomes
If you reject the counteroffer, be ready to leave the company on good terms. If you accept it, recognise that your employer might still be cautious about your future intentions.
Take Your Time
Don’t rush your decision. Take the time to consider all factors and discuss with trusted mentors, family, or friends.
Communicate Clearly
Once you’ve made your decision, communicate it clearly and professionally to both your current employer and the new one.
Trust Your Gut
After weighing all the factors, trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s worth considering why that might be.
Plan for the Future
If you accept the counteroffer, ensure that you have a plan for addressing the issues that made you consider leaving in the first place. If you reject it, focus on transitioning smoothly to your new role.
Handling a counteroffer requires careful thought and consideration of both your professional and personal goals.
