The Sudden Counter

You hand in your resignation and suddenly your company offers more money. This is a counteroffer — and it changes the game entirely. Counteroffers are about retention costs, not rewarding you. Replacing you can cost anywhere from half to twice your salary, depending on the role.

Counteroffers feel flattering but carry hidden risks. The manager who "fought" for your raise now knows you were one foot out the door — a memory that resurfaces at promotion time. Decide clear-headed, not flattered.