So you’ve landed your next job and have told your partner you’re leaving for another firm. He/she is not absolutely happy about the news and has made you a counter-offer. Now what? ALB asked a number of legal recruiters for their top tips on how to best manage this situation.
Tips for how to best manage a counter-offer:
Understand why firms make counter-offers: Usually coming in the form of higher salary, a promotion or more involvement in major transactions, counter-offers are made to rival the one you have received from a future employer, in order to convince you to stay.
Don’t confuse it with flattery: While the offer is flattering, it’s important not to misread it as sign that you are valued by your current firm. You need to ask yourself, why the firm has acceded to requests that have long been ignored. Some possible reasons include the cost of replacing an employee, the need for time to hunt for your replacement, or the lack of time and resources for the firm to train someone new at the moment.
Know the facts: While statistics on how often it happens are hard to find, recruiters says that most jobseekers who accept a counter-offer subsequently leave within 12 months, with the majority leaving within 3-6 months. Most importantly, counter-offers don’t ensure your job is permanent.
Remember why you wanted to leave: In the face of an attractive offer it is easy to forget why you initially wanted to leave. Consider all the reasons that prompted you to accept the new job offer and ask yourself whether your current firm can provide the same sort of opportunities?
Remember why your new position appealed: Think about the career opportunity you will miss by accepting the counter-offer. Ultimately, is it a better position for you – more pay, greater opportunities, increased training, international travel or greater project diversity?
Think about the past, present and future: Carefully consider how your current firm has treated you while employed with them and if this is likely to change if you stay. It’s also important to consider the career prospects with your current firm against the one you are looking to move to.
Consider the aftermath: Once you have informed your boss of your intention to resign, your commitment to the firm will always be in question. If you accept a counter-offer it is important to remember that your resignation is not forgotten. You will need to work hard to regain your employer’s trust.
Talk to a friend: It is a good idea to discuss the advantages and disadvantages with someone whose opinion you value. Fleshing out any issues and concerns you have will help to clarify your thoughts and feelings on the matter.
Know when to say no: Don’t let a counter-offer stand in the way of your career progression. Thank the firm for the offer and reaffirm your intention to leave. Deliver your written resignation letter to the partner in person and let them know that you have considered the merits of the two positions and have chosen the new one. State that you neither seek nor want a counter-offer and hope instead to have an amicable departure.
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