Candidates

DO IT WITH CLASS - Congratulations! You've landed the job! Now you are faced with the challenge of resigning from your current employer and saying good-bye to some old and/or dear friends. Your Strategic Sales Search Recruiter will help you draft your resignation letter. Then, make an appointment with your manager and calmly and concisely explain your decision. Your manager needs to hear that you have made a final decision and are committed to your new employer. Be careful not to get lured into any discussions other than your resignation, how they want to handle your last two (2) weeks and the transition of your current duties, responsibilities and projects.

Sample Resignation Letter

The purpose of this correspondence is to provide you with notice of my resignation effective (Date). I have decided to take advantage of a better opportunity for my career and family. After much deliberation, I have concluded that my decision is final.

I know my time at (Candidate's Company) has been beneficial to both of us. If I can be of assistance during this time of transition, please let me know. I have enjoyed working with you and look forward to staying in touch with you in the future.

Sincerely, (Candidate's Name)

In the not too distant past we used to say you might receive a counteroffer. In today's market we know better. You will receive a counteroffer. This is a derivative of the current talent drought that we are experiencing. This drought is especially acute in the sales, sales management and marketing disciplines. While counteroffers may be flattering, there are drawbacks. Ask yourself these questions:

1. Is the counteroffer a ploy to avoid a short-term inconvenience.
2. Will your career track remain blocked?
3. Will you report to a person you don't respect?
4. Will your responsibilities be expanded?
5. Will your loyalty always be in question?
6. Am I receiving next year's raise or bonus early?
7. Most employers don't like being fired, are they temporarily buying me?
8. If accepting a counteroffer is like infidelity, will it be forgiven and can it be forgotten?
9. If my employer turns on me in the future, do I run the risk of being overpriced and unemployed?
10. If I accept their offer for more money, am I just giving them the time they need to locate and select my replacement?
11. If there are cutbacks in the future, will I be the first to go since my loyalty will be in question?
12. What are my realistic chances for promotions now that they know I considered leaving?

According to national surveys of employees that accept counteroffers, 50-80% voluntarily leave their employer within six (6) months of accepting the counteroffer due to unkept promises. The majority of the balance of employees that accept counteroffers involuntarily leave (terminated, fired, laid off, etc.) their current employer within twelve (12) months of accepting the counteroffer.

BOTTOM LINE - Accepting a counteroffer, no matter how attractive it may appear, greatly decreases the chance of maximizing your career potential.