What You Really Need To Know About Counter Offers?
Recently, I shared an article titled “Do not accept a counter offer!!!” It was a very good article, but not 100% representative of my thoughts. I struggle with the word “never” and am only aware of a few life circumstances in which I can plug in such a blanket statement. You must, however, tread very lightly if you plan to take a Counter Offer as it almost NEVER works out.
Below, I’ve packaged my personal experience paired with feedback gleaned from 100’s of other world-class executive search professionals throughout America.
If you take a counter offer here are 6 things that happen:
- Whether you mean for it or not, you will have arrived at your new salary/situation by means of blackmail. You likely weren’t trying to blackmail them, but it was ultimately blackmail that got them to offer this new salary or situation to you. If they felt you were worth that yesterday why didn’t you receive it?
- When it comes to any future raises, objections you have to policies, favors you need, they’ll remember that blackmail. They’ll have this ace in the hole forever.
- They’re the same company you decided to leave, after careful consideration. They were in a situation where they had to tell you what you wanted to hear. They’ll continue to be who they are.
- They may always look at you as having one foot out the door. What is the trickle down of that? Are you now a marked man/woman? Has trust been diminished? Generally speaking, the trickledown effect is not positive.
- Research has shown that more than 50% of all employees who accept counter offers change companies within the following 12-24 months.
- The most important thing to ponder is the fact you’ve gone against your intuition. Your intuition is almost always right and you know that. Accepting an offer is something that is supported by time, thought, and consideration; done through several interviews, experiences, research and advice from family/friends/mentors or even executive recruiters.
When someone takes a counter offer, it’s generally a very rash emotional decision that goes against their intuition, and ultimately can serve as a major career setback. I wouldn’t be so bold as to say you should never take a counter offer, but if we’re playing the odds, the odds are not in your favor so please proceed with CAUTION!
When you need career advice, JDI is here to help.