You made the decision to take a new job. You went through the lengthy process of carefully considering the new career opportunity and the reasons for leaving. You are clear on the next chapter and submitted your resignation. And then, your current employer extends a counteroffer.
The unexpected offer may be generous in compensation or include a promotion. Now, you are second-guessing your decision to resign.
Resigning your current position is not a decision made lightly, so as you contemplate the counteroffer, be sure to prioritize your personal and professional growth over short-term financial gains. Here are some tips to navigate the counteroffer process with clarity, conviction, and a clear vision for your future success.
Scrutinize the Counteroffer
Approach the counter with a critical eye and question your employer’s motivations. The timing of a counteroffer is often a telling sign of your employer’s priorities. If the improved compensation, responsibilities, or other concessions were not offered proactively to address your needs and keep you engaged before you resigned, it begs the question: “Why now?” Some employers are more reactive than proactive when it comes to employee retention, waiting until the threat of losing a valuable team member becomes imminent to take meaningful action.
This raises concerns about the authenticity of the counteroffer. Is it a genuine reflection of your employer’s recognition of your worth and a commitment to your professional development? Or is it a short-term solution to address the immediate risk of your departure, with no guarantee of long-term follow through?
Next, gauge the sincerity of the proposed changes. Even if your employer claims to have been planning changes to your role or compensation, does the proposal seem sincere? Has leadership demonstrated a history of following through on such promises, or is this a one-off attempt to appease you? Consider whether the proposed improvements are truly aligned with the company’s broader strategic priorities and values, or if they are simply a last-ditch attempt to retain you in the moment.
Here are 10 compelling reasons why a counteroffer may not be worth the risk:
1. Undermining Your True Worth
When your employer offers to adjust your salary after a resignation, it may lead you to question your value and worth, potentially undermining your confidence.
2. Perpetuating Disengagement
Even if a counteroffer seems to resolve your reasons for leaving, the fundamental factors contributing to your dissatisfaction may remain unaddressed. Whether it’s a strained relationship with your manager, a lack of growth opportunities, or a misalignment with the company culture, these issues will continue to fester and erode your job satisfaction.
3. Damaging Reputation and Credibility
Accepting a counteroffer after resigning can be perceived by your employer as an act of opportunism. Your commitment and trustworthiness may come into question, as your employer wonders whether you will continue to shop around for better offers.
4. Straining Relationships with Colleagues
News of your counteroffer acceptance is likely to spread throughout the organization, potentially leading to resentment and strained relationships with your colleagues. They may view your situation as unfair, Forbes reported, particularly if they feel their own contributions and loyalty have not been recognized or rewarded to the same degree.
5. Missing Opportunities for Growth and Development
By staying put in a role that no longer aligns with your long-term aspirations, you risk stifling your professional growth and development. The excitement and challenge of a new job, along with the exposure to different industries, technologies, or business practices, can be invaluable in shaping your career trajectory.
6. Impacting Future Compensation Adjustments
Keep in mind that the compensation boost you receive through a counteroffer may come at a cost. When annual increases come around, you may find your employer is less generous, having already made a significant adjustment to retain you.
7. Feeling “Bought” and Disconnected
Accepting a counteroffer can leave you with a lingering sense of being “bought” or acting as a “mercenary,” where your loyalty is perceived as driven by money rather than a genuine commitment to the job or the team. This can lead to you becoming disconnected from your colleagues, as managers and team members may never fully trust that you won’t leave at the next opportunity.
8. Being Targeted for Future Cuts
You may inadvertently price yourself out of the company by accepting a counteroffer. When it comes time to reduce headcount or trim costs, you could find yourself at the top of the list for potential layoffs or termination, because your inflated compensation makes you an easy target.
9. Facing a Stall Tactic
Employers may use a counteroffer as a delay tactic to buy themselves time to find your replacement, rather than make a genuine effort to retain you long-term.
10. Burning Bridges with the Prospective Employer
Consider the potential damage to your relationship with the prospective employer who made you an offer. By reneging on that to accept a counteroffer, you risk closing the door on future opportunities with that company or within their network.
Still Contemplating a Counter? Things to Consider.
There are some rare instances when a counteroffer is worth taking. But we can’t emphasize this enough: Be wary when weighing the reasons to stay.
Recognizing the Motivation. Reflect on your history with the company. Has your employer consistently recognized and rewarded your work? If they have a track record of valuing your contributions, the counteroffer might be genuine. Or are they extending a counteroffer as a knee-jerk reaction to your resignation? Recognize the motivation as you consider the counteroffer.
Looking Beyond the Money. If the counteroffer includes a significant increase in salary, weigh that against the long-term implications for your career trajectory and personal development. While attractive, monetary incentives can be short-lived in their ability to satisfy if other core aspects of your job are lacking.
Taking the Emotion Out of It. Deciding whether to accept a counter often involves strong emotions, especially for high performers who have strong bonds with their current teams and managers. These relationships can cloud judgment, making it harder to stay objective. It’s imperative to maintain a clear perspective and take the emotion out of the equation to determine what will serve your professional growth and personal fulfillment.
Seeking Support in Considering the Counter. Impartial advice can provide valuable perspectives that help balance your instincts and intuition. Reach out to trusted colleagues, friends, mentors, and sponsors — those who understand your professional aspirations and personal values. These individuals can offer unbiased insights based on their experiences and knowledge of your industry.
Your recruiter, despite having a stake in your decision, can offer useful guidance. An expert recruiter aims to facilitate a lasting match, knowing that a premature departure reflects poorly on their judgment and could tarnish their professional reputation. This incentivizes them to help you make the best choice that promises enduring satisfaction and growth.
Stay Focused on Long-Term Career Growth
Navigating a resignation and career transition can be difficult, especially when faced with a tempting counteroffer from your current employer. While it’s flattering to feel valued and sought after, it’s critical to approach the situation with a clear head and a long-term perspective. No matter how generous, a counteroffer rarely addresses the fundamental reasons that led to your resignation.
Instead of being swayed, trust the instincts and reflections that inspired your job search and stay true to your carefully considered career goals and aspirations.
Learn how Alliance Resource Group can help plan your next career steps.
