October 4, 2018

Here’s Why Counter Offers Can Be Counterproductive

Into everyone’s life, a little unhappiness may occasionally fall. That’s just part of life. And if that unhappiness crops up at work, you may decide to pursue another career opportunity. If you’ve been with your company for a few years (or longer) or if you perform a valuable service that’s hard to replace, your employer may make a counteroffer when you submit your notice. Although it may seem like a no-brainer to accept (because you may be thinking—who needs the stress of moving on to a new job?), counteroffers usually aren’t all they’re cracked up to be. Here’s why.

What took them so long?

If you’re like most people, it probably wasn’t a huge surprise to your employer that you want to leave. You may have aired grievances during your 1:1s or annual review meetings. You may also have worked toward things you never received, like a new job title or promotion. And if you’ve been unhappy for some time, it was probably apparent in your behavior. All things considered, your employer could have taken steps long ago to help you be more satisfied at your job, especially if you’re a valuable worker they want to keep on board. But they didn’t—until now.

Your employer knows the truth

An employee who has attempted to leave will most likely only be appeased with higher pay for just so long. It’s inevitable that without removing the issues causing the unhappiness, the employee will eventually leave anyway. Your employer is fully aware that your mind may drift in this direction and may start the groundwork for someone else to do your job. Long story short—it’s probably fair to say your opportunities with that company will dwindle to almost zero.

You also know the truth

In reality, how far will a little more money actually take you? It’s stressful to have the “end of the road” conversation with your boss and submit your notice… so to psych yourself up for it, you obviously had a good reason. Even though it will feel good temporarily to get more in your paycheck, will that solve for all the things that made you want to leave your job in the first place? Probably not.

Be honest with yourself

You have dreams and goals for your future. What do you want out of your career? When you’re unhappy or unfulfilled at work, you may end up taking it home with you every day, and this cuts into your work-life balance. You owe it to yourself to be happy and do something you love. It can be scary to make the leap, but as the saying goes, you miss all the shots you don’t attempt.

Let a recruiter help!

If you know you want a change, but you feel you need guidance, work with a recruiter. He or she will talk with you about your skills, experience, and career goals, and let you know what’s available. Recruiters are equal parts career coach and career scout, and they want to see you succeed.

Check out InterConnnect!

We work with qualified candidates to find positions in light industrial and office/administrative. To learn more, contact us today!

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