At the same time, they're paying top dollar to retain their best people. Increasingly, lower-level employees who tender resignations also are receiving counteroffers. Calif. Although most employers claim they won't make counteroffers when an employee resigns for a new job, many eat their words and pony up to avoid losing critical talent. Having special skills and experience, particularly in international business or technology, increases your chances of receiving a counteroffer. Mr. Balastriere, a 16-year veteran of Bard, is bilingual and has extensive experience in Europe and Latin America, skills that make him highly valued.
Counteroffers are also more common in some industries than in others.
They're rare in manufacturing but prevalent in high-technology and financial and professional services where one rainmaker or idea person can produce significant business. If you fit these categories, chances are good when you walk into your boss's office to deliver the news about a new opportunity, you'll be confronted with a counteroffer. You'll have to make a decision and, if you're highly valued, you'll likely have to make it under considerable pressure to stay. Before you step into the line of fire, arm yourself with facts about your career goals, your current and prospective employers and the job market. Consider the following advice when you develop your strategy.