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At List Recruitment, we have seen a consistent pattern throughout our decades of experience in the industry.
A candidate goes through the rigorous process of updating their CV, attending interviews, and securing a fresh opportunity. They are ready for a new chapter. However, when the notice is handed in, the current employer suddenly "realises" their value. A promotion, a pay rise, or a promised change in responsibilities is immediately put on the table.
While a counter-offer can feel like a professional victory, it is often a "flattery trap" that should be navigated with caution. Here is why:
If a team member is worth a salary increase or a new job title today, it is worth asking why they weren't worth it yesterday. It shouldn't take a resignation letter to trigger a fair review of an employee's contribution. A counter-offer is often a reactive measure used by a business to avoid the immediate cost and disruption of a vacancy, rather than a genuine, proactive investment in that person's future.
The dynamic of a workplace inevitably changes the moment a resignation is tendered. Even if a counter-offer is accepted, the employer is now aware that the individual was prepared to move on. In our experience, this can lead to a subtle shift in trust, which may impact future promotion cycles or long-term project assignments.
Industry data suggests that the vast majority of employees who accept a counter-offer still leave within six to twelve months. While a salary increase provides a short-term boost, the underlying reasons for wanting to leave—be it company culture, lack of progression, or the daily commute—usually remain exactly as they were. A pay rise is a temporary "sticking plaster," not a long-term solution to career stagnation.
When the decision is made to move on, we encourage professionals to do so with conviction. A new role is more than just a change of scenery; it is a vital opportunity to broaden expertise, master new systems, and expand a professional network.
Our stance is simple: if a new direction was the right choice on Monday, a counter-offer on Friday shouldn't be the reason you stop your progress.
Image by Mohamed Hassan from Pixabay
