The offer phase in the recruitment process is a crucial time when both companies and potential candidates put forward their best arguments to initiate a successful collaboration. However, it is not uncommon for candidates to receive a counter-offer from their current employer after receiving an offer. In such situations, it is crucial for specialist managers to adopt a professional and strategic approach in order to successfully retain potential talent within their organisation.

Understanding the complexity of counter-offers

Before we look at the best strategies for dealing with counter-offers, it's important to understand the underlying dynamics. Your ideal candidate has received an offer from you and a counteroffer from their current employer. Counter-offers from the current employer can have a variety of motives: from appreciation of the employee to attempts to prevent the loss of qualified employees. It is therefore crucial to consider the candidate's needs and motivations during the negotiation phase.

The importance of open communication

An essential step in dealing with counter-offers is to encourage open and honest communication with the candidate. Specialist managers should encourage the candidate to share their thoughts and concerns about the counter-offer. This enables the organisation to better understand and respond to the candidate's individual needs. Ilka Szentkiralyi emphasises:

"Open communication is the key to gaining the candidate's trust and building a long-term relationship. Only when all the cards are on the table can an informed decision be made."

Emphasise the advantages of your own offer

Throughout the recruitment process, specialist managers should emphasise the unique selling points of their company and the workplace. This can include the attractive working environment as well as the long-term development opportunities and career prospects. A solid offer that meets the individual needs of the candidate can increase the attractiveness of the move to the new employer.

Show appreciation for the candidate

An effective strategy to deal with counter-offers is to communicate to the candidate how much they are valued by the organisation. This can be done through personalised messages, face-to-face conversations and recognition of their past achievements. An appreciative attitude shows the candidate that they will play an important role in the organisation and are a valued member of the team.

Communicating the long-term vision

In addition to the immediate attractiveness of the offer, specialist managers should also communicate the long-term vision and common goals of the company. A clear and compelling perspective for career development within the company can encourage the candidate to think long-term and recognise the long-term benefits of the move.

Counter-offers can be a challenge in the recruitment process, but with the right approach, specialist managers can successfully overcome these situations. Open communication, emphasising the strengths of your offer, valuing the candidate and illustrating the company's long-term vision are key elements to successfully retaining talent. In the words of Ilka Szentkiralyi:

"A professional and respectful approach to counter-offers can lay the foundation for long-term and successful collaboration."

By applying these tried and tested strategies, managers can attract the best talent to their organisation and build a lasting relationship that drives business success.

If you don't want to lose valuable candidates during the offer phase, every step of the process counts. indivHR is at your side and offers customised solutions to optimise your recruitment strategy and successfully deal with counter-offers.

Our team of experienced experts at indivHR understands the complex challenges that this crucial phase entails. We rely on open communication, an appreciative attitude and targeted support to ensure that your top candidates make the right decision and commit to your company in the long term.

Let's work together to improve your talent management and ensure that your valuable professionals develop within your organisation and successfully contribute to business growth. Contact us today to find out how indivHR can help you attract and retain the best talent.

Don't miss the opportunity to strengthen your company with the best talent and build a successful future. We look forward to accompanying you on this exciting journey!