Expert insight into what is going on behind the scenes when you accept an offer for new employment, and your current employer offers you a counter to stay.
[music] Q: Scott, are you crazy? The counter offer would be a huge raise.
A: I’m not crazy. Money is not the main reason you’re looking for a new job in the first place. Likely, you accepted a new job to achieve growth, a better work-life balance, a better company, or a better cultural fit. More money will not solve those issues. If more money was all you’re looking for, you probably should have just asked your boss for a raise.
Q: What’s going through my current employer’s mind after making me a counter offer?
A: What’s going through your employer’s mind is human nature. Trust is broken. They’re simply buying time to find your replacement since you made it clear you are willing and able to accept a new job. They’re skeptical about your long-term viability. It’s hard to hear. And it is unfortunate. But it does come down to math. It’s cheaper and easier to keep you on in the short term and use that time to help find your replacement.
Q: Why is it important to trust myself?
A: It’s important to trust yourself. You accepted a new job for a reason. You put in a lot of time and energy. You decided to look. You took off work. You went through an interview process, and you decided to make a move. And your new employer went through that journey with you. It’s important that you do trust yourself and be loyal to the commitment that you made to them.
Q: What’s the best way to decline a counter offer gracefully, without burning any bridges?
A: The best way is the same way you would put in a two-weeks’ notice. Be respectful, be appreciative, but be clear that your decision has been made.
