written by Larry Janis
You’ve decided to accept a highly attractive offer for a position with a new employer and in the process of resigning you receive a compelling counter offer from your current firm. Should you take it?
Accepting a counter offer is tantamount to winning the battle but losing the war. Yes, there is undoubtedly some thrill in the moment but it will be short-lived and soon forgotten. In the long run, accepting the counter offer is actually the more costly option. Here’s why:
1. Your employer is now aware that you are willing to leave. From this day on, your loyalty will always be in question.
2. The circumstances which caused you to consider a change are still there – and will probably continue to escalate.
3. When that next promotional opportunity arises, your employer will remember who they think was loyal and who wasn’t.
4. When times become tough, your employer may begin the cutbacks with you.
5. Accepting a counter offer is sends a message that you can be bought.
6. Where is the money from the counter offer coming from? Why was it not presented to you earlier if you were performing at the top of your grade? Is your next raise being delivered early?
7. Your company may immediately start looking to replace you at a cheaper price.
8. Statistics show that if you accept a counter offer, the probability that you will still leave voluntarily within six months or be let go within a year is extremely high.
9. Once the word gets out, the relationship that you now enjoy with your colleagues will never be the same.
10. Do you really want to work for a company that requires you to threaten to resign in order to compensate you for what you are worth?
Once you decide to move on and accept an offer, keep moving forward. There is no value in turning back.
Since the title for this article was inspired by a song from the Clash- Should I stay or should I go? Here’s a link to listen to it- Should I Stay or Should I Go