Dear PPers,
Our good friends over at Project Resource Limited has pinged us these words which we feel you may find to be an interesting read on this grey Monday morning....
Counter Offer...
Confidence has returned to the construction and infrastructure markets significantly over 2013 and the media seems full once again of landmark projects being proposed or set to start. Have you been hiding in a cave for the last six months or did you actually not realise that?! In our consultancy division, we’re experiencing an incredible demand for new talent that far outstrips supply as the UK market finally finds its feet.
So what’s the single biggest trend that I’ve witnessed in the consultancy division over recent months?
Simple – it’s the increase in frequency of the “counter offer”. Two words that send shudders down every recruiter’s spine, the counter offer has become the modern manager’s way of staving off high attrition levels and appeasing staff that have felt neglected over the recession that their business can genuinely match their goals. Simply put, the counter offer is the changes that most employees in 2013 discussed with their boss when they handed in their notice and can include a pay rise, promotion, new project, different sector, moving to a local office or just the sheer promise that your boss will ensure you meet your goals.
My advice to you if you’re thinking about making a move is speak to your boss FIRST, before you do anything else. Tell him why you’re considering moving – is there anything that your current employer could change to satisfy these issues? That way, you avoid wasting your time and damaging your reputation with competitors in the market who you let down by not completing the move (this can have more of an impact than you think!) and you give your boss the chance to understand and attempt to improve your situation before your grievances manifest into something greater. If this conversation ends negatively, then (and only then) are you ready to consider your options.
“I’ve been presented with a counter offer and I’m not sure what to do?”
This is a question I hear on a daily basis, after all in the current market I’d be worried if an employer didn’t want to keep hold of their best employees! When you factor in the cost and process involved in hiring plus potential disruption to your client with the introduction of a new face, the counter offer is usually the easiest option for any manager. It’s a flattering scenario when the boss whose recognition you’ve sought for so long now pleads you to stay, offering an impressive pay rise and promotion but the realities are often different. Before you accept/reject any offer consider the following:
- Why didn’t my boss offer this to me when I approached him originally? If my employer really valued me, why didn’t they offer this pay rise/promotion then?
- Why was I looking for work in the first place? Will accepting this counter offer really satisfy me?
- Is anything really going to change as a result of my decision to stay?
- Will my relationship with my boss be weakened by me staying?
Ultimately the decision to leave lies with you and cannot be made by those around you. Do remember we’re always here to help with career advice so if you find yourself asking these questions contact one of our specialist team who’ll be more than happy to talk you through your current situation.
I hope this has helped and I look forward to hearing from you.
For more information about Project Resource visit our website
... that's all from us at PP.
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