Deciding to change jobs can be an exhausting task. First, you have to compile a CV, then search career portals and publications, apply for the job, prepare and go for interviews, and perhaps face the disappointment of being told that the position has went to another candidate. Then, one day, you get the call that changes your career path: your interview was successful and you’ve got the job!
You gather the courage to hand in your resignation, and when you do, your employer makes you a counter offer. You accept the counter offer and look forward to brighter days.
Unfortunately, not all counter-offer stories end happily. Sometimes, it ends in regret and bitterness. What can you do to ensure that you are making the right decision by accepting a counter offer? And how can you avoid “stayer’s-regret”?
First things First
Think about what it is that made you want to switch jobs in the first place. If there are factors that cannot be changed, then you might want to reconsider staying at your current job. Management style, fellow employees’ attitudes, company structure and physical location are examples of factors that cannot be changed. Workload, working hours, desk space and remuneration are factors that are negotiable.
Promises, promises
Be absolutely certain that what you are promised is not only delivered, but also deliverable. A manager promising to change their management style is not practical; a pay increase and benefits are – but ensure that you receive that which was promised to entice you to stay. If possible, get those promises in writing.
Paper Trails
Should you decide to stay at your company and accept a counter offer, ensure that the necessary paperwork is in place. You might need a new contract drawn up, indicating changes that were made or promised. Remember that negotiating is simply not enough – promised changes have to be in writing. Ensure that you have valid written proof of that which you were promised.
Growth Potential
Are you utilising your skills in your current position? Are you growing as a professional, facing new challenges and learning new skills? Before you say “I stay” remember that stagnation is the number one frustration factor for forward thinking career minded individuals. If you enjoy the company that you work for, but feel stagnant in your position and see no more room for growth, then it is probably a good idea to move forward.
Decisions
A counter offer is like receiving another job offer. Look at your current company as well as the other company(ies) that you were thinking of moving to. Make a list of reasons why you should work for either company, and then weigh up the pro’s and con’s. This should give you an idea of which position is best for you. It should also give you a good idea of what needs to be addressed when making such an important decision – and remember that it’s often the little things that count, so list everything.
From here on forth
Being made a counter offer by your employer is a huge compliment – it makes one feel valued and appreciated. Deciding to accept a counter offer means that your employers have faith in you and that they recognise your contribution to the company and would like you to be part of their organisation. Remember that you still need to work hard and continue your efforts. Most of the time, making the situation work in your best interest is up to you. As the old adage goes, “the ball is in your court”.
Successful implementation of changes in one’s job takes effort, hard work and the right attitude but it also depends on management and company co-operation. Deciding whether to accept a counter offer or to move on to another job is an extremely important decision, so think carefully before making your decision.
Good Luck!
You gather the courage to hand in your resignation, and when you do, your employer makes you a counter offer. You accept the counter offer and look forward to brighter days.
Unfortunately, not all counter-offer stories end happily. Sometimes, it ends in regret and bitterness. What can you do to ensure that you are making the right decision by accepting a counter offer? And how can you avoid “stayer’s-regret”?
First things First
Think about what it is that made you want to switch jobs in the first place. If there are factors that cannot be changed, then you might want to reconsider staying at your current job. Management style, fellow employees’ attitudes, company structure and physical location are examples of factors that cannot be changed. Workload, working hours, desk space and remuneration are factors that are negotiable.
Promises, promises
Be absolutely certain that what you are promised is not only delivered, but also deliverable. A manager promising to change their management style is not practical; a pay increase and benefits are – but ensure that you receive that which was promised to entice you to stay. If possible, get those promises in writing.
Paper Trails
Should you decide to stay at your company and accept a counter offer, ensure that the necessary paperwork is in place. You might need a new contract drawn up, indicating changes that were made or promised. Remember that negotiating is simply not enough – promised changes have to be in writing. Ensure that you have valid written proof of that which you were promised.
Growth Potential
Are you utilising your skills in your current position? Are you growing as a professional, facing new challenges and learning new skills? Before you say “I stay” remember that stagnation is the number one frustration factor for forward thinking career minded individuals. If you enjoy the company that you work for, but feel stagnant in your position and see no more room for growth, then it is probably a good idea to move forward.
Decisions
A counter offer is like receiving another job offer. Look at your current company as well as the other company(ies) that you were thinking of moving to. Make a list of reasons why you should work for either company, and then weigh up the pro’s and con’s. This should give you an idea of which position is best for you. It should also give you a good idea of what needs to be addressed when making such an important decision – and remember that it’s often the little things that count, so list everything.
From here on forth
Being made a counter offer by your employer is a huge compliment – it makes one feel valued and appreciated. Deciding to accept a counter offer means that your employers have faith in you and that they recognise your contribution to the company and would like you to be part of their organisation. Remember that you still need to work hard and continue your efforts. Most of the time, making the situation work in your best interest is up to you. As the old adage goes, “the ball is in your court”.
Successful implementation of changes in one’s job takes effort, hard work and the right attitude but it also depends on management and company co-operation. Deciding whether to accept a counter offer or to move on to another job is an extremely important decision, so think carefully before making your decision.
Good Luck!
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