Dog Catches Job Offer
Candidates considering a move from one company to another often have a “dog catches car” reaction. No matter how hard they chased the opportunity at the start, once they "catch the car" they’re struck with uncertainty and indecision– i.e. “now what?” Suddenly, their life becomes more stressful– even in light of good news. Pondering the decision over several days doesn’t makes it any easier, nor does relying purely on logic or emotions. A good place to start is by asking yourself, “Knowing what I know now, which opportunity would I choose if I didn’t have a job today– my current one (or) the new one?”
Then, take to heart these four points:
Compensation: Will it meet or exceed your needs? Is it fair and competitive for the position? If the answer is “yes”, then don’t let money drive your decision. Better to be in a position or organization you enjoy and are paid fairly than one you regret and are paid handsomely.
Growth: Will it offer personal and professional growth and mentorship? Will it provide an opportunity to learn knew things, to stretch yourself? Avoid letting impressive titles confuse your motivations– those tend to be short term ego strokes. Instead, focus on the things that make you "thrive". Tip: they're different for each person, at different stages in a career.
People: You spend as much time with co-workers as family, so choose an organization that will surround you with good ones. Not just peers but great leaders and mentors, too. As @AdamMGrant put it: "Before taking a job offer, it's worth asking: do I want to become more like the people here? You can aspire to change the culture of a group, but don't overlook how the culture might change you".
Leaving well: If you’re convinced the decision to move is in your best interest, spare your present employer the agony of countering and losing you twice. In other words, don’t open the door to a counter-offer discussion. If you’re on the fence, it might be better staying where you are and make the best of it– but don’t use another offer as leverage for a raise or promotion. Doing so damages the relationship and statistically speaking, rarely recovers. Translation: you’ll be out the door– by choice or not– in the not too distant future. Don’t take our word for it; try Googling “accepting counter offer”.