Changing jobs is never easy. It is a process that needs careful consideration, and is often accompanied by anxiety and doubt. Adding to the confusion, once the decision is made and you hand in your resignation, you may receive a counteroffer from your current employer. While it’s very flattering to the ego, is it wise to accept the counteroffer?
The reasons why you want to leave are most likely still there.
The counteroffer is usually a knee-jerk reaction from the employer because they’ve been caught off-guard and unsure what to do without you in the short term. Good companies with a fair compensation package will not fall into the trap of the counteroffers.
Whatever the reason for your original move to leave the company – whether it’s inadequate compensation, lack of career advancement, long-term personal disagreements – those circumstances will still be there, and the counteroffer is simply a temporary Band-Aid solution.
They will never trust you again.
Should you accept the counteroffer and stay, the management will never again see you as a loyal employee or a team player. The company will assume that you’re constantly on the lookout for better opportunities. Every time you’re absent they will wonder if you’re interviewing for another job.
Your long-term prospects at the company will be harmed and the chances of you being let into the inner circle significantly diminished. Full trust is hard, if not impossible, to regain.
The way out is out.
The best strategy for handling the counteroffer is to prepare for it and prepare to say “no” to it. Be firm and do not waiver. Have a well-documented letter of your intentions for the resignation meeting, making sure that you are clear.
No matter what, be professional when resigning. Do not burn bridges and leave respectfully.
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