How to handle a counter-offer

Resigning from your current position will not always be as easy as you expected. With employers competing to source and retain the best talent, you may receive a counter-offer. 

“The latest research by Robert Walters has shown that while many professionals have received counter offers during their resignation process, 39% of those who accepted returned to the jobs market within a year," said Jason Grundy, Managing Director.

With this in mind, here are our key points to consider.

Evaluate your options

No organisation will want to lose the talent they’ve invested in, so prepare yourself for what may be a tempting counter-offer. Consider each of your options, weighing up the alternatives and comparing the benefits of leaving with what you have been offered. Compare your offered salary with the industry standard with our Salary Survey, to discover if your prospective salary sits above average.

Remember why you wanted to leave

Although counter-offers are often very flattering as well as potentially lucrative, remember why you wanted to leave in the first place. Question why it has taken the threat of resignation to prompt this appreciation of your worth and what would have happened had you not looked elsewhere.

In our experience, many professionals who accept counter-offers often restart their job search in two to six months time. This is because counter-offers usually don't resolve the issues that led them to consider leaving in the first place.

No organisation will want to lose the talent they’ve invested in, so prepare yourself for what may be a tempting counter-offer. 

Rebuild trust

Be aware that accepting a counter-offer can lead to stigma or the perception of being disloyal to the group and management team. Make sure you work hard to build and retain the buy-in you had before you began looking elsewhere. 

Don't shy away from having frank conversations to regain trust among your various stakeholders. You also need to be cautious of losing your position if there is potential for a company restructure.

Don't burn bridges

Remember that references from former employers are often crucial to your future career prospects. If you choose not to accept the counter-offer, try to ensure an amicable separation. 

Reassure your manager that you came to this decision after much deliberation, resisting the urge to highlight any negative experiences. Explain that you appreciate the time spent in the organisation and the valuable experiences it has given you. 

Utilise your Robert Walters consultant for support and advice

If you are having doubts about how to best handle a counter-offer, speak to your Robert Walters consultant. By keeping in touch you will more than likely find the process a lot smoother. 

For more career advice information, please contact:

Jason Grundy, Managing Director - Middle East
jason.grundy@robertwalters.com
+971 4 8180 100

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