How to Handle Counteroffers? – The Pros and Cons of Staying vs Going?

When faced with a counteroffer after giving notice of resignation, it can be challenging to decide what to do. Whether you stay or go is a personal decision, but weighing the pros and cons of each option is essential. To help you make a well-informed choice, we’ll go over the various facets of counteroffers and the pros and cons of remaining and leaving.

If you’re wondering how to respond to a counteroffer, this article will outline the benefits of staying and the drawbacks of leaving your current job.

How to Handle Counteroffers?

Let’s begin!

1) What is a counteroffer?

A counteroffer is an offer that is made in response to another request. It typically occurs in employment negotiations, when a job candidate receives an offer and then makes a counteroffer to their potential employer, including different terms or conditions. The employer may then make another counteroffer in response, and the process continues until both sides reach an agreement.

As a job candidate, you should consider the pros and cons of accepting or declining a counteroffer before deciding.

2) Pros of staying

Staying at your current job when offered a counteroffer can have several advantages. For example, you will be more familiar with the company culture and expectations and may not have to adjust to a new environment.

Additionally, staying can provide job stability and security as you won’t have to go through the job searching process again or risk being unemployed. You can also leverage the counteroffer to ask for a higher salary and better benefits, which can further improve your financial security.

3) Cons of staying

Staying with the same company can be a comfortable and safe decision. However, there are some drawbacks to consider. Staying with the same employer may mean you are stuck in the same job with the same salary, without any room for growth or advancement.

Other job opportunities may be worth considering if your employer cannot offer additional benefits or incentives. Additionally, staying may cause strain on your relationship with your current employer, as they may see you as someone who is no longer fully committed to the company.

4) Pros of leaving

Leaving a job after receiving a counteroffer can be a great decision. It can allow you to explore new opportunities and better suit you for a different role or working environment. Also, leaving can provide higher pay, better benefits, and job security. Finally, it helps you develop professionally and personally, which can improve job satisfaction.

On the other hand, staying at your current job after a counteroffer could also have some advantages. For example, staying put can allow you to continue building relationships with your colleagues and supervisors and keep up with industry trends in your current sector.

5) Cons of leaving

When considering a counteroffer, it’s essential to consider the potential drawbacks of leaving your current job:

• If you have already given notice, you risk damaging your reputation with your employer. You may also be seen as unreliable or untrustworthy in the future.
• You may miss out on better opportunities and experiences with the new company or burn bridges with those in your network who referred you for the new job.
• Tax implications could be associated with leaving one job for another.
• It is essential to do your research and consider all angles before deciding.

6) If you receive a counteroffer, how should you respond?

Suppose you receive a counteroffer from your current employer. In that case, it’s essential to take the time to consider all of the pros and cons of staying versus leaving before making any decisions. Ensure you know precisely what the offer entails and have weighed each option’s financial and non-financial benefits. 

It is also essential to consider the offer’s long-term implications, such as whether this will impact your career development and the potential future opportunities at the company. Discussing the proposal with trusted mentors or advisors may be beneficial to get another perspective and ensure that you make an informed decision. 

7) How to negotiate a counteroffer

If you remain there, you should be prepared to negotiate a counteroffer with your current employer. Raising pay and expanding perks are two examples. Being confident, persuasive, and direct is essential when dealing with a counteroffer. Start by listing your needs and expectations, and research the going rate for your position in the market. When discussing a counteroffer, focus on how it will benefit your employer and always remain professional and respectful.

8) Should you accept a counteroffer?

Accepting a counteroffer can be tempting, especially when it is made with the promise of more money or better benefits. However, there are also risks involved that you should consider before making a decision. Counteroffers often don’t last and may cause resentment among co-workers while creating a sense of instability in the workplace.

Ultimately, you must weigh the pros and cons and make the best decision for your career and personal life. To help make your decision easier, here are some pros and cons of accepting a counteroffer.

9) How to decline a counteroffer

Declining a counteroffer is always challenging and requires courage, poise, and confidence. Before making any decisions, it’s essential to consider the pros and cons of staying versus leaving. Once you decide to move on, thank your employer for the counteroffer and be prepared to explain why you are not accepting it.

Be honest and straightforward with your employer but also courteous and respectful. Tell them you appreciate the offer but have decided to pursue other opportunities. Doing so will ensure you leave on good terms and maintain a positive relationship with your current employer.

10) What to do if you’re tempted to accept a counteroffer

When considering a counteroffer, staying focused on your original goals and plans can be challenging. It is essential to remember why you applied for the new job in the first place and weigh the pros and cons of accepting the counteroffer. If you are tempted to buy the counteroffer, assess the situation thoroughly and consider all options. Talk to someone close to you who can give an outside perspective and emotional support. Consider any potential consequences and how the decision might affect your career path in the long term.

11) Should you tell your employer you’re considering a counteroffer?

Telling your employer that you’re considering a counteroffer can be tricky. On the one hand, you may feel obligated to be transparent and tell them that another company has made an offer. But you also don’t want to raise unrealistic expectations or make them feel bad. Your honesty with your present employer should be determined solely by you. 

It’s important to understand that there’s no correct answer—you must assess the situation and use your judgment. However, communicate politely and professionally if you decide to tell your employer about the counteroffer. For example, try not to express your desire to leave the job; instead, focus on expressing gratitude for their interest in keeping you as an employee.

12) How to resign after accepting a counteroffer

If you’ve accepted a counteroffer and are ready to move on, you must do it professionally and with the utmost respect for your current employer. You should have a detailed plan for when and how you will resign, a list of transition tasks you intend to complete, and all required paperwork in order before you formally hand in your resignation…

Additionally, take the time to thank your current employer for their understanding and willingness to negotiate with you. Finally, give them two weeks’ notice to find a suitable replacement.

13) What to do if you’re asked to counter a counteroffer

Continuing negotiations to improve the terms can be tempting if you have already accepted a counteroffer. However, this should only be done if you’re confident you want to stay with your current employer. If you are asked to counter a counteroffer, consider the pros and cons of staying versus leaving before deciding how to proceed. 

Evaluate what kind of offer would be best for you and make sure it’s something you’re willing to commit to. Be honest and up-front with your employer so they understand your motivation and expectations. Finally, take some time to think it through before making a decision, as this will help you make an informed decision. Read More in my Career Hub.