Amit for quite some time has been feeling frustrated in his current job for want of recognition and no clarity on his future career path. He has raised these issues in his last annual review, but it has fallen on deaf years. Amit is quite demoralised and started to apply for better options and soon enough he grabs a decent job in a reputed firm. He informs his boss about the offer and requests for an early release from his current assignment. Now, his boss wakes up and it suddenly dawns upon him that without Amit it will be difficult for him to manage the team. He immediately activates the machinery, and an attractive counteroffer is rolled out to retain Amit.
What should Amit do? Accept or reject and why?
Accept:
- He will remain in his comfort zone and not have to risk of starting all over again in a new set up.
- His market worth has been recognised and he has finally got his dues and.
- Leveraging an offer from another company is a common practice to get a raise.
- He will be in an advantageous position as the Company now obviously needs him.
Reject:
- Too late …. his boss has woken up about his value and worth once he is on his way out.
- He has already mentally and emotionally switched off when his boss ignored him and gave him reason to explore alternative options.
- Trust is broken -staying back will backfire and he will always be seen as a flight risk and sooner than later, there will be reasons enough to fire him or find his substitute.
- Unethical to accept an offer and leave his new employer in the lurch.
- Money is not only reason to jump ship as role, career progression and future are also considerations for switching jobs.
- Loyalty is fragile and cannot bought with money, but with appreciation and encouragement.
- Confidence in his own abilities to do well in the next job.
My take…
Employers:
Why allow such a situation to arise? Look at the tell-tale signs and if you value your employee give him what he deserves. Don’t take him for granted or make him feel short-changed. Communicate transparently, recognise, and provide opportunity for his career progression and growth. No point in buying out an employee when he has one foot out of the door.
Employees:
Introspect, communicate frankly, and weigh your options carefully before you decide upon exploring greener pastures. If you find the right job with all the necessary ingredients encompassing position, status, money and above all a challenging and exciting career ahead; take the plunge with confidence and trust in yourself and your capabilities. Don’t use an offer as a weapon to threat to quit. Part cordially and keep the doors open to re-join tomorrow on a better footing, but don’t look back today.
What are your views?