You’ve finally decided to move on. You’ve put in your resignation, accepted a new job, and you’re looking ahead to new opportunities. Then, surprise, your current employer makes a counteroffer. More money, maybe a shiny new title, and promises that things will change.
Tempting, right?
But before you say yes, take a moment to think it through. Because while it might feel like you’re winning, accepting a counteroffer can often do more harm than good.
Here's why:
Your Loyalty Is Now in Question
- Even if your employer seems understanding, trust has already been impacted. They now know you were ready to leave, and that changes how they view you. It might not be obvious right away, but it can affect your chances for promotions, leadership roles, or being included in strategic decisions.
The Real Reasons You Wanted to Leave Are Still There
- More money doesn’t erase a toxic culture, lack of growth, or feeling undervalued. Those core issues often resurface quickly after the counteroffer buzz wears off. That same frustration that led you to update your CV will likely return sooner than you think.
Counteroffers Are Often Just a Temporary Fix
- Sometimes, a counteroffer is simply a way for the company to buy time while they plan for your exit on their own terms. It’s more convenient for them to keep you a little longer than to fill your role immediately. But once that short-term pressure eases, don’t be surprised if things shift, sometimes not in your favour.
Backing Out of a New Offer Can Hurt Your Reputation
- Accepting a counteroffer means turning down a company that believed in you enough to hire you. If you've already signed the offer, backing out can damage your reputation with that company—and possibly with others in the future. The professional world is smaller than it seems, especially within specific industries.
You Might Miss Out on a Better Long-Term Opportunity
- That new job you were excited about? It likely aligned with your goals for growth, learning, or work-life balance. Accepting a counteroffer can feel like playing it safe, but it might actually be keeping you stuck. A fresh start often brings more opportunity than staying in a role you've already outgrown.
You Shouldn’t Have to Threaten to Be Valued
- If your employer only took your concerns seriously after you decided to leave, that’s telling. Why weren’t you being paid fairly or supported before? If it takes a resignation letter to get their attention, how much do they really value you?
Counteroffers are flattering. They can feel like recognition, validation, or a much-needed win. But more often than not, they’re short-term solutions that don’t address the real reasons you wanted to leave.
If you’ve found a new role that excites you, aligns with your goals, and offers real growth, trust yourself. Don’t let a reactive offer keep you from taking a proactive step forward.
If you’re on the fence about a counteroffer and need a sounding board, talk to someone you trust or reach out to a mentor or recruiter. The best decisions often come from clarity, not comfort
