Hey there, it’s Kerry Beamer, Senior Executive Recruiter at The Alliance Group. So, picture this – you’ve just landed your dream job, celebrated the win, and then bam! Your current boss throws you a curveball: a counter offer.
Understanding Counter Offers: The Behind-the-Scenes Maneuver
Let’s dig into this phenomenon and understand the game before you decide to play. A counter offer is when your current employer sweetens the deal to keep you after you’ve snagged an offer elsewhere. It’s often a salary bump, maybe some extra perks – you know the drill.
Now, in our cutthroat job market, companies throw counter offers around like confetti. Why? Well, it’s simple economics. They don’t want to lose a star player, and let’s face it, the cost of keeping you is peanuts compared to the hassle of finding a replacement.
Navigating Before Jumping Ship: Strategies for Workplace Satisfaction
But here’s the kicker: to avoid that awkward counter offer dance, exhaust all avenues before jumping ship. Have an open convo with your manager or HR. Long commute? Can you work from home more? Burning the midnight oil? Any plans to bring in reinforcements? Overdue for a raise? Negotiate that base salary. Passed over for a promotion? What options remain internally for growth and professional development?
Reality Check: Anticipating the Counter Offer
Now, if you get real solutions in that chat – fantastic! But if it’s a dead-end street or you’re still unhappy, that’s the green light to start your job search.
Here’s the kicker, though – even if you do everything right, expect that counter offer. It’s like the unexpected guest at your party – always shows up. Ask yourself, why did you have to drop the the ‘R’ word (resignation) before they found the budget for your well-deserved raise?
The Illusion of Fewer Hours: Debunking Counter Offer Promises
And let’s talk promises of fewer hours. Spoiler alert: you can’t magically erase overtime. The work still needs doing, right? Do they have a plan in place (with approvals!) to hire more staff and off-load some of the work that has led to the excessive need for overtime? Are they offering you a “reduced” schedule? This one often comes with reduced pay and limitations on future upward mobility. And, many people who opt for the 75% schedule with 75% of the pay, still work 100-110% of the 40 hour/wk goal regardless but now you’re doing it for less money.
The Job Search Journey: Remembering the Why
Remember those weeks of interviewing, the PTO for those multiple conversations? There was a reason for that. Finding a new role is thrilling, but it can be scary. Some folks decide to stay – the comfort zone is a cozy place. But think about the consequences. You’ll burn bridges with the new company. Your boss now knows you were ready to jump ship. And, here’s the real kicker: in my experience, those who accept counter offers often circle back within 6-12 months – because, surprise, there were deeper issues.
Conclusion: Confidence in Resignation and Leveraging The Alliance Group
Now, to make this whole process smoother, anticipate that counter offer. Walk into your resignation with confidence. When that inevitable conversation comes, have your response ready: “Thank you, but I’ve accepted another role that’s a fantastic step for my career. I’m excited to begin and will ensure a smooth transition over the next two weeks.”
Before I sign off, let me share a bit about The Alliance Group. We’ve got an executive search function that’s top-notch, led by a team of seasoned recruiters. Leveraging our team can be a game-changer in your job search journey. So, folks, buckle up, navigate those career choices, and remember, The Alliance Group has your back!
Connect with me
kbeamer@thealliancegroup.com