Career Advice

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Last updated August 26, 2026

How to Handle a Counter Offer From Your Current Employer

TL;DR: Counter offers can be flattering, but the data shows most people who accept them leave within a year anyway.

Ask yourself why it took a resignation

If the raise or promotion was available, why didn't it happen before you had another offer in hand? That question is worth sitting with honestly.

The underlying issue rarely changes

Compensation is often only part of why people start looking. If the real driver was culture, management, or growth ceiling, a bigger paycheck usually doesn't fix that.

If you do accept, get it in writing

Verbal promises about promotion timelines or expanded scope should be documented before you formally decline the other offer.

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