Counter-offers have become more common in construction in the past year as employers fight to keep hold of their best people by offering them a higher salary to entice them to stay (see feature here).
It is flattering to know an employer is prepared to pay more to keep you, but staying for money alone is rarely the right decision. So before you put yourself back on the jobs market, consider what you are
trying to achieve and your motivation.
Here are a few things to think about:
- Don’t attempt to force your employer into a counter-offer to achieve a pay rise. If you have not already approached them for a pay rise, do so before you look for a new job. Counter-offers are not universally made, so expecting one could leave you in a difficult situation. Our survey of construction employers found one in four did not have a policy of making a counter-offer to resigning employees.
- Make sure you know what a realistic average salary is for your role, so you can benchmark a new employer’s offer and counter-offer to the industry and regional averages. Make sure it is a fair reflection of your skills and experience before accepting either.
- If money is the only reason you are looking elsewhere, a counter-offer may be worthwhile. However, for most people, career opportunities, the work itself, location and management are important factors in the decision to leave – a counter-offer will not change these.
- If you have got as far as accepting a new job offer and handing in your notice, your mind is probably already made up. You have already closed the door on this chapter of your career and have probably started preparing your exit. So will a pay increase really restore your commitment and enthusiasm
for the job? - If you are tempted by the offer, and happy to return to your job, weigh up the career opportunities in your current and prospective new role.
In six months or a year, will your role offer you the development and opportunities you want, or will
you be in the same situation?
Duncan Bullimore is director of Hays Construction. To find out average salaries for your role and the latest trends in construction recruitment visit http://salaryguide.hays.co.uk/construction
