Reasons to Reject a Counteroffer
There are two main tactics a company will use to try to retain you once you’ve given notice of resignation. One is financial, and simply involves offering to give you an immediate pay increase and/or promotion. If you find the timing to be curious, there’s a good reason for that. The other tactic is an emotional one. “How can you leave us after all we have done for you? I thought we were a family here. And who will finish the projects you are working on?”
No matter what tactic your current employer uses, the reason is the same; your employer wants to see you go on their terms, not yours. When someone resigns, it is customary to give a two week notice, and your employer knows that is probably not long enough to find a suitable replacement for you. What’s really going on here? And why weren’t they willing to pay you what you are worth BEFORE you threatened to leave?
Basically, the clock is ticking. Statistics show there is a high probability you will be let go or resign (again) within one year. Your employer may immediately start looking for your replacement, at a cheaper cost. And what happens in the meantime? Now that the company knows you are unhappy, you will be viewed as disloyal. When it’s time to hand out raises and promotions, your employer will consider that and you are likely to be shortchanged.
Think about the reasons you were willing to leave in the first place. Chances are, it wasn’t just the money. It often has more to do with working conditions, lack of opportunities for advancement, perhaps an unreasonable boss. Will any of that change if you stay? Or will you simply be facing the same problems?
If you are working with a recruiter, and they have gotten you a fair offer with a new company, and your current employer offers a counter in an effort to change your mind, you must carefully consider the reasons you began your search for new employment in the first place, and the potential ramifications if you change your mind regarding your impending resignation.
