How to Handle a Counter Offer
You’ve done it.
After months of phone calls, networking events, resume submissions and interviews, you’ve finally received an exciting job offer. Congratulations! Giving your two week’s notice is going to be difficult, but you’re prepared – or so you think.
What will you do if your current employer counters?
It could happen. With unemployment rates ticking downward, employee retention is becoming more important than ever. Smart managers are doing whatever it takes to keep their best employees – including offering them raises and promotions.
So before you submit your resignation, make sure you’ve considered every scenario. Use these tips from PrideStaff to handle a counter offer the right way:
Think through the consequences.
Before you accept a counter offer, know the potential upsides and downsides. If you stay, you’ll earn more money and/or have challenging new responsibilities.
On the other hand, you’ll also be forced to prove yourself all over again to justify the promotion or the increase in pay. In addition, your relationship with your boss may be undermined, because he now knows that you’ll consider outside opportunities. Eventually, he may even resent you for “looking for greener pastures.”
Make sure you understand the real reasons you looked for a new opportunity. If you receive a raise or a promotion, will those reasons still exist – and will you find yourself dissatisfied again in the near future? If so, it’s probably best to move on.
Handle the situation with poise and confidence. Once you’re firm in your choice to resign:
- Draft a formal, written resignation. Deliver it in person and explain the reasons for your choice.
- Respectfully turn down the counter offer, if one is made. Be clear that, although you are flattered and have enjoyed contributing to the success of the company, your mind is made up.
- Stay in control. Keep your emotions in check and avoid arguing at all costs.
- Reassure your employer that you will do whatever you can to ensure a smooth transition for whoever replaces you.
- Be prepared for it to be your last day. In some cases, an employer may turn down your offer to stay on for two more weeks. If you are asked to clear out immediately, handle yourself professionally.
Contemplating a job change? PrideStaff can help.
If you’re currently working but are not happy in your job, it’s important to remember that you do have options.
Make PrideStaff one of those options. Our staffing specialists can help you examine your skills, interests and career goals. We can conduct a confidential job search on your behalf while you continue working.
With offices across the nation, and a wide range of administrative, professional , IT and light industrial jobs, we can match you with an opportunity you truly love. Contact the PrideStaff office in your area to find out more about great local job opportunities.
