As a top-performing accountant, your decision to tender your resignation and work for another employer most likely will be met with adversity. Your loyalty to the company may be called into question. You may receive emotional appeals not to break up the team. Worse, you may be given a counter-offer to encourage you to reconsider your choice to leave. Although the promise of more money, a promotion or other incentive may be enticing, you need to clearly consider the long-term effects of accepting a counter-offer to realize that it’s not likely in your best interest. Here are some reasons why you shouldn’t accept a counter-offer.
What a Counter–Offer Typically Looks Like
A counter–offer may take many forms. Your manager might offer you more money, an upcoming salary review or other tangible benefits. They could suggest increased responsibilities or promises of future promotions. Or, your manager might bring up changes in reporting structure, especially if you’re having an interpersonal conflict. Keep in mind that these are short-term solutions that won’t solve the long-term problems that caused you to find a new employer in the first place.
Why a Counter–Offer Is Not a Long-Term Solution
Since a counter–offer is a short-term answer to long-term problems, it rarely solves the underlying reason why you chose to leave the company. In most cases, salary isn’t the prime motivator for resigning. Earning more money doesn’t change company culture, an interpersonal problem, lack of growth opportunities or a similar issue. As a result, it often doesn’t take long for things to go back to the way they were before your resignation.
Issues to Consider About a Counter–Offer
To assure yourself you’re making the right decision by not accepting a counter–offer, consider certain issues. For instance, why is your decision to leave the catalyst for being offered a new title, promotion, raise or other incentives? If you’re being offered more money, where is it coming from? Is your manager making it difficult to leave so they can buy time to replace you at their convenience? Do you want to be among the 50% of employees who leave within three to four months or 75% of employees who leave within a year of accepting a counteroffer?
How to Maintain a Professional Image
The last impression you make at your job is as important as the first impression you made. Because you never know whether you might work with a colleague or manager in the future, be sure you cement your relationships to establish a network for your future in the business world. Express your appreciation for working with each colleague and manager. Maintain a positive attitude. Fulfill your job duties. Finish projects. Tie up loose ends. Ask to stay in touch with coworkers. Leave your office, including company files, in top shape.
Contact Mercer Bradley
When you’re ready to change jobs in Western Canada’s accounting industry contact us today. Find your next career opportunity that matches your interests and goals today.
