Aug 12, 2009

Money…continued from yesterday

Posted by Wendy Weber

Counteroffers are tempting…

Until you consider that you will be sitting at the same desk, reporting to the same person, in the same organization.  Was money the only reason you accepted a new position?  And if your current employer was able to come up with an immediate “raise” for you, how come they didn’t do that before you had a foot out the door?

When your boss makes a counteroffer and retains you, they are trying to save face, and avoid the inconvenience of having to replace you.  When someone quits, it is a rejection of their current situation, including their boss.  So you are offered more money until the boss has an opportunity to deal with your situation on their own terms.  Think about it; they know you went through the interview process with another company once.  They know you will do it again.  Now your loyalty is in question.  Even if you stay, things will not be as they were.

Moreover, your reasons for wanting to leave your current employer still exist.  The quick raise is flattering at first, but masks other issues that caused you to explore your career options in the first place.  Those reasons usually emerge again in a short time.

Ultimately, when making your decision about whether to stay or go, look at your current job and the new position as if you were unemployed.  Think about which career opportunity offers more challenge, opportunity, and long term potential.  But please, don’t stay where you are just for the money.

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