Possible counter offer

Uhtred · 3 Mar 2016 at 05:57

I'm opening this thread in anticipation of a possible counter offer from my current place of work and the dilemma that may cause me. I also want to make sure I'm playing my cards right.

I work in IT infrastructure and I've been with my current employer for 5 years. I've never resigned from a job as in the past I've always been made redundant.

A few weeks ago I applied for a new job which is closer to home (I currently commute to london) and pays better +2k basic +5k oncall and overtime available. The job itself sounds interesting and I was impressed with the company and my would be team leader.

The technical tests and interview went well and I was offered the job the next morning. After receiving the contract I resigned on Tuesday with my 2 months notice.

I've had hints from 3 different people that a counter offer is being prepared and I want to make sure I do things correctly if that does happen.

I'm planning on posting the paperwork for the new job on Saturday as the offer is valid for 14 days, which will be this coming Tuesday, so I'm not comfortable delaying any longer than that.

Once I send back the contract signed is there no going back? As I mentioned I've never been in this position so I really am clueless.

Thanks for any advice

Uhtred · 4 Mar 2016 at 10:44

Yes that is very likely. I will send off the contract signed to the new place tomorrow.

Uhtred · 6 Mar 2016 at 11:03

Thanks for the advice everyone, contract is on its way. Although money is a big reason I'm leaving it's not the only reason so I'm glad nothing has come of it.

The hint came from someone relatively senior and he was the person who first recruited me, hence I thought there was a good chance something would be offered. But this says it all really:

If they haven't even approached you directly with at least a verbal offer/discussion by the end of the week then I would consider that an indicator of how important it is to them

I feel a sense of relief now that it's done and dusted and I'm looking forward to my first day

Uhtred · 9 Mar 2016 at 17:51

So the counter came through today, +10k basic, no strings. I have tonight to think about it but I'm almost certain to decline. It will be sad to leave but I feel I've done my time there and it's time for a fresh challenge.

I found the comments above really helpful, thanks to all.