- The Launchpad
- Posts
- Debunking Career Clickbait: The Truth About Counter Offers
In partnership with
On Today’s Launch
On today's issue of the Launchpad, we're tackling that infamous piece of career advice that just won't die: "Never accept the counter offer."
You've seen it plastered across LinkedIn, probably accompanied by dramatic warnings and horror stories.
But is this one-size-fits-all advice actually helping anyone? Let's cut through the clickbait and examine when this popular "rule" helps – and when it hurts.
If you're frustrated by one-sided reporting, our 5-minute newsletter is the missing piece. We sift through 100+ sources to bring you comprehensive, unbiased news—free from political agendas. Stay informed with factual coverage on the topics that matter.
Previous launches you may have missed…
Ever notice how career advice on LinkedIn seems to come in exactly two flavors?
Either "Drop everything and quit RIGHT NOW" or "Never ever ever make this mistake or your career is OVER."
Yeah, we need to talk about that.
Today's target: The infamous "Never accept a counter offer" advice that's probably clogging up your feed right now.
You know the type -- dramatic headlines, lots of caps lock, and enough exclamation points to make your high school English teacher cry.
Why We Fall for Absolute Statements
Let's be honest: We love absolute statements. They're simple. They're clear. They make decision-making feel easier.
"Never eat carbs!"
"Always wake up at 5 AM!"
"Never accept a counter offer!"
These statements are the career advice equivalent of crash diets -- they sound great in theory, but real life is messier than that.
The Counter Offer Conundrum
Can accepting a counter offer backfire? Sure.
Can it work out beautifully? Absolutely.
Welcome to the nuanced reality that clickbait career advice loves to ignore.
It's like saying "never date your ex" -- while it's often good advice, we all know someone who married theirs and lived happily ever after.
Context: The Missing Ingredient
Here's what those attention-grabbing posts never mention: Context matters. A lot.
Why were you looking to leave in the first place? Was it purely about money? Culture? Growth opportunities?
These questions matter more than some random LinkedIn influencer's opinion.
The Honest Conversation You Need to Have
Before you dismiss a counter offer, try something radical: Have an honest conversation with your current employer.
I know, I know. Revolutionary stuff.
But here's the thing -- your employer's response to your resignation can tell you a lot about your future there.
The Hidden Agenda Nobody Talks About
Ever wonder why external recruiters are so adamantly against counter offers?
Hint: It might have something to do with their commission.
I'm not saying they're wrong, but let's acknowledge the conflict of interest here.
Making the Decision (Without the Drama)
Instead of following blanket advice, try this framework:
List your reasons for wanting to leave
Evaluate how the counter offer addresses each reason
Consider the non-monetary factors
Trust your gut (yes, really)
The Evaluation Checklist
Ask yourself:
Does the counter offer address my core issues?
Has my employer shown genuine interest in my growth?
Am I staying for the right reasons?
Can I maintain good relationships if I stay?
Beyond the Money
Remember: A counter offer isn't just about salary.
It might include new responsibilities, different projects, or changed working conditions.
Don't dismiss these non-monetary aspects -- they often matter more in the long run.
The Reality Check
Will some people have bad experiences with counter offers? Yes.
Will others have great ones? Also yes.
Welcome to the wonderful world of "it depends."
The Bottom Line
You're an adult making a career decision, not a teenager following TikTok trends.
Trust yourself to evaluate your specific situation.
And maybe, just maybe, be a bit skeptical of career advice that treats complex decisions like simple yes/no questions.
Your Action Plan
Ignore the clickbait
Evaluate your specific situation
Have honest conversations
Make an informed decision
Own that decision
Remember: The person writing that viral LinkedIn post doesn't know your situation.
But you do.
And that makes you the best person to make this decision -- not some stranger with a lot of followers and a flair for dramatic headlines.
Stay skeptical out there, folks.
Did you enjoy this week's issue? |
About the Author
I’m James, Cofounder of Final Draft Resumes. I’ve been in the career consulting space for 13 years, and before that, I was a recruiter for AECOM.
I’ve helped thousands of job seekers, from industries like software engineering, IT, sales, marketing, manufacturing, and more generate job opportunities through well-written resumes that translate unique backgrounds into coherent narratives.
If you’re struggling with your resume for whatever reason, reach out - I just might be able to help!
If you’re more of a DIY person, then check out Resumatic, my free-to-try resume builder.
Phone Interviews: More Than Just Awkward Silences
Ever had that moment on a phone interview where you can't tell if the line's dead or if the interviewer is just thinking?
Cricket sounds 🦗
Yeah, we've all been there.
The Phone Interview Paradox
Phone interviews are weird. You can't see facial expressions. You can't read body language. And somehow, every pause feels like it lasts approximately seven years.
But here's the thing – they're also an opportunity. While everyone else is fumbling through their calls like they're using a phone for the first time, you're going to nail it.
The Setup: Your Secret Weapon
First things first: Location, location, location.
Find your quiet spot. And no, your local coffee shop doesn't count, no matter how great their lattes are.
Your tech setup matters too:
Fully charged phone (obvious, but crucial)
Good reception (test it beforehand)
Quality headset (your AirPods will do)
The Art of Phone Communication
Here's what nobody tells you: Phone interviews are like a dance. But instead of watching your partner's moves, you're listening for verbal cues.
Some key moves to master:
Strategic pauses (they're not awkward, they're professional)
Verbal nods ("I see," "That makes sense")
The highlight reel (keep answers focused – this isn't your life story)
Your Secret Weapon: The Cheat Sheet
The beauty of phone interviews? They can't see your notes.
Keep handy:
Your greatest hits (key achievements)
Company research (show you did your homework)
Questions to ask (you know they're coming)
Remember: Preparation isn't cheating – it's professionalism.
Want the real pro tip? Smile while you talk. Yes, really. They can hear it in your voice.
After the Call
Send that thank-you email. Reference specific conversation points. Show them you were actually listening, not just waiting for your turn to speak.
Phone interviews might be awkward, but they're also an opportunity to stand out. Master these basics, and you'll turn that awkward silence into your moment to shine.
Stay tuned for next week's deep dive into the art of the follow-up email. Trust me, it's more interesting than it sounds.