Counteroffers are accepted everyday. Why? Because money talks. The harsh truth is that this can backfire leaving candidates in an even worse position down the line (unemployed!). Be wary and look at this situation from all angles before considering one.
It’s much easier for employers to sweeten the pot to keep someone than to conduct an expensive search to replace them. And never mind the loss of intellectual property and cultural currency that is held by critical staff members.
Think about what goes through the Manager's head when someone gives notice.
“This is couldn't be a worse time. We've got a release next week”
“Everyone looks up to Joe. This is going to be bad for morale."
“My team is already stretched to the limit as is.”
“He was my go-to guy. The fact that I didn't see this coming is going to make me look bad.”
Now, this is what they will actually say to keep you there...
“Really? I didnt know that you were unsatisfied. What can I do to make it better for you?"
“There are great plans, we just haven't had a chance to tell you yet"
“Let's make your next raise effective now”
“You can't be serious !!! You are going to work for who?”
It's human nature for the manager to protect his best interests. And it’s also human nature for the candidate to want to stay since career change, like all ventures into the unknown, is tough.
Resigning will always be an uncomfortable process, but if you add a counteroffer to the table, it could get worse. Think about the following universal truths before engaging in a discussion about a counteroffer that may have short/ long term disadvantages for you.
- Any situation is suspect if an employee must receive an outside offer before the present employer will suggest a raise, promotion or better working conditions.
- No matter what the company says when making its counteroffer, you’ll always be a fidelity risk. Having once demonstrated your lack of loyalty (for whatever reason), you will lose your status as a team player and your place in the "inner circle".
- Counteroffers are usually nothing more than stall devices to give your employer time to replace you. Your reasons for wanting to leave will likely still exist. They’ll just be slightly more tolerable in the short term because of the raise, promotion or promises made to keep you.
- Counteroffers are only made in response to a threat to quit. Will you have to solicit an offer and threaten to quit every time you deserve a raise or promotion?
- Well-managed companies typically don’t make counteroffers. Their policies are fair and equitable on a consistent basis.
Comments