Counter Offer: Exploring Your Options

After the job searching process, the interviews (and maybe even the stress) you’ve received an offer for a new role and it’s time to tell your line manager which you do. Now picture this, your manager provides a counter-offer.  More money. A new title. Maybe even perks that suit your work-life balance. It’s flattering. It’s tempting. But it can also be confusing.

As the demand for specialist talent continues to outpace supply, counter-offers have become more frequent  and more emotionally charged. Employers are offering better salaries, flexible work, and fast-track promotions in a bid to retain staff. At First Point Group, we’ve seen this happen on many occasions.

But here's the reality: research suggests that up to 80% of professionals who accept a counter-offer still leave within six months!. Why? Because money rarely fixes the real reasons people decide to move on - whether that's lack of progression, poor leadership, or simply feeling undervalued. In this blog, we examine several questions you should consider if counter-offered!

1. Why Are You Being Counter Offered?

Counter offers, often referred to as “buy backs,” are common in many industries, whether it’s telecoms, data centres, tech or renewables. Employers know that retaining you is cheaper and quicker than replacing you. Hiring takes time and disrupts productivity, so a counter-offer can sometimes be perceived as the quick, simple option. That’s not to say your employer doesn’t value you. But ask yourself: why did it take your resignation to prompt this offer? Consider these questions before accepting a counter-offer.

• Is it genuine - or just reactive?
  • Is this a one-time gesture to stop you leaving, or part of a bigger plan for your growth?
• What’s really changed?
  • Will your day-to-day be any different? Or are the same frustrations likely to resurface?
• What’s your long-term goal?
  • Will staying get you closer to where you want to be in 2, 5, or 10 years?

Regardless of the reason, it’s essential to listen respectfully to the counter offer.

2. Reflecting on Your Decision to Leave

Consider why you initially decided to seek a new job. Was it due to:

• Lack of Prospects: No growth opportunities in your current role?
• Challenges: A desire for a more challenging position?
• Interpersonal Issues: Unresolved conflicts with colleagues?
• Other Factors: Relocation desires, company reorganistions, or changes in leadership?

If these reasons still hold, accepting the counter offer may not be the best choice.

3. Evaluating Your New Employer

Interviewing for a new job is challenging. Once you’ve asked all your questions and received answers, assess:

• Learning Opportunities: Will the new role allow you to learn and develop?
• Responsibility: Is there more responsibility?
• Compensation: Consider the basic salary and additional benefits.
• Location: Is it fully remote or office-based?

Having clarity on these factors will help you decide whether to accept or reject the counter offer. Changing jobs can be daunting. Throw a counter-offer into the mix, and things get complicated fast. But if you're in this situation, pause and reflect:

• Why did I start looking for a new role?
• What am I really trying to achieve?
• Can my current employer truly offer me what I need or is it time to move forward?

Trust your instincts. You explored other opportunities for a reason. Don't let a tempting offer cloud your long-term goals.

Need help weighing it all up? We’ve got your back.