Welcome back to Handling Counter Offers! In part two of this series we will talk about the employer’s perspective on the counter offer. The new employer and your current. Counter offers are to be expected, as mentioned in Part One if you better prepare yourself for it then you will know how to handle it. The perspective of the employer is very important in how you handle the counter offer. Especially since your loyalty has now been tested on both fronts.
The Current Employer
Looking at the employer’s perspective in regards to your resignation is significant. If your employer presents a counter offer it does not serve anyone else’s interest but their own. Their job is to maintain productivity and workflow. Your employer could offer you exactly what you were looking for in a new job, but that does not mean it is a long-term solution. Often the employer will present a counter offer to buy time to find your replacement. Once you have shown them that your loyalty was put to the test it is really hard to come back from that. The employer’s opinion of your loyalty will forever change and they always think you are open to leaving at any given time. So to protect themselves, they will present a counter offer and see you as disposable as soon as the right replacement comes along.
The New Employer
Getting a job offer is very exciting for both the candidate and new employer! It is the start of a new relationship, and could mean many good things to come forward. However, what really sours new employers is when you pit them against your previous with respect to the counter offer. Some candidates may go back to the new job offer and see if they can get more out of it. Not only is this detrimental to your new relationship with this employer, they may decide to take the offer back. Simply because there was lapse in your commitment with them.
As candidates you must be aware of every aspect to your job search. This includes handling counter offers. Commit fully to your job search and realize no amount money, vacation time or improved role will really keep you long-term. Avoid putting yourself in a position where your loyalty will be tested with your new employer and current employer. Don’t take your chances, you might be out two jobs because of one counter offer.
