Receiving a counter offer from your current employer can feel validating and a sign that your contributions are valued. But while the promise of a pay rise or new perks may be tempting, accepting a counter offer isn’t always the best move for your long-term career.
In fact, 78% of employees who accept counter offers leave within six months, and over 70% leave within a year. Here’s why you should think twice before saying yes.
Underlying Issues Remain Unresolved
If your reasons for leaving go beyond salary, such as poor leadership, lack of growth, or a toxic culture a counter offer won’t fix those problems. In fact, 72% of employees who leave after accepting a counter offer state unresolved issues as the reason.
Trust and Loyalty May Be Damaged
Once you’ve handed in your notice, your employer may see you as a flight risk. 69% of employees believe accepting a counter offer can undermine their credibility with their employer. This shift in trust can affect future promotions, project opportunities, and job security.
Counter Offers Are Often Temporary Fixes
Many counter offers are reactive, a short-term solution to avoid disruption. 58% of HR professionals say counter offers are used as a “band-aid” rather than addressing core issues. Promises of change may not materialise, leaving you back where you started.
It Can Strain Professional Relationships
Colleagues and managers may view your decision to stay as a negotiation tactic. This can lead to resentment or a lack of trust, especially if your counter offer includes perks others don’t receive.
It May Stall Your Career Growth
A new role often brings fresh challenges, learning opportunities, and a broader network. Staying put might feel safe, but it could limit your exposure and development. Only 18% of employees who accept counter offers report feeling more committed afterward.
Financial Incentives May Not Be Sustainable
While the average counter offer includes a 10-12% salary increase, this may not be financially sustainable for your employer, especially if the company is facing budget constraints or restructuring.
You Might Miss Out on Bigger Opportunities
Accepting a counter offer means turning down a new opportunity that likely aligned better with your goals. The new role may have offered better leadership, culture, or long-term potential, things a pay bump can’t replace.
UK Counter Offer Snapshot (2025)
- 67% of job seekers receive counter offers
- 40% of UK employers made a counter offer in the past year
- 78% of employees who accept counter offers leave within 6 months
- Only 23% of managers believe counter offers are effective for retention
- 45% of employers believe counter offers retain staff for 12+ months
- Just 22% of employers have a formal counter offer policy
A counter offer might feel like a win but it’s often a short-term fix that doesn’t address the real reasons you wanted to leave. Before accepting, ask yourself:
- Will this solve the issues that made me want to leave?
- Is this offer about me or about avoiding the cost of hiring someone new?
- Does staying align with my long-term goals?
Partner with Bond Williams for Career Clarity
At Bond Williams, we support professionals through every stage of their career journey including tough decisions like counter offers. Our expert consultants can help you evaluate your options and make the move that’s right for you.
Visit bondwilliams.co.uk to speak with a specialist today.
