Counter Offers are usually made under two circumstances. If you have received a job offer from another organization and you are still working with your current employer; it is likely that your current organization may give you a counter offer. On the other hand, if you feel that a new job offer you received is not what you expected; your prospective employer may make some changes to your salary package or other terms and present a counter offer.
Perhaps if the reason for leaving the company is inefficiency due to lack of interest in the job, unfit working condition or working area, and unhealthy working relationship with the superiors of colleagues, getting the counter offer would be the greatest mistake.
Counter offers in both cases are usually loaded with better perks and benefits in an attempt to either retain an old employee or hire a new one promptly. However, in both cases it is important to review your situation, check the revisions made in the counter offer and analyse the situation carefully. Most employers prefer to make a counter offer to a valuable employee, rather than hire a new entrant and invest money in training the person. If your current employer has made a counter offer in order to retain you and you have other job offers in hand, take time to make your decision and avoid being hasty. Think about the reasons that made you want to look out for other offers in the first place. Was it the low salary? The meagre perks? The lack of career enhancing opportunities? If the reasons that made you dissatisfied in your current job have been addressed in your counter offer, it may make sense to stay on in your current firm. For most employees, lack of prospective opportunities and slow promotions are the main reasons for them to look out. It is also essential to analyse if existing relationships with colleagues and superiors will be hampered if you accept the counter offer and stay on.
If a prospective employer wants to retain you at all costs, they are likely to propose a counter offer if the original job offer is rejected by you. Remember to check the counter offer and read the terms and conditions thoroughly before accepting anything. If you still feel that the package offered is below your estimated market value, it makes sense to look for other jobs or continue working with your current employer. It is important to be completely sure before accepting a job offer as any unwise decision made, will have a direct impact on your career.
