How to design an effective resume:


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Click Here for example 2

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Accepting the Counteroffer:

The counteroffer is a method used by companies to keep valuable employees in the organization. Don't be fooled into thinking the employer is doing you a favor. It is in their best interest to lure you to stay so they won't be left shorthanded upon your departure.

It is clear that the company is reaping the benefit when their employee accepts a counteroffer. Many will disagree stating that employees can control their own destiny and use the counteroffer to improve their earnings and careers. The "loyalty contract" between employers and their employees seems to be non-existent in this day and age.

But even as the workplace changes the same cannot be said of human nature. Employers want to minimize any potential turmoil and financial loss resulting when a key player leaves the organization. They also bank on the premise that for employees, changing jobs can be as stressful as dealing with death, divorce, and moving to a new home - among other major life episodes. Counteroffers prey on the employee's tendency to avoid leaving the familiar to enter uncharted territory.

Companies know it is a lot cheaper to keep someone than to go through the aggravation and expense of finding a replacement. Sometimes a change in job title, creation of a new project or promises of any kind can entice the employee to stay. Losing a valuable employee is a direct reflection on his/her boss. Maintaining the job force "status quo" on their terms is what makes the boss look good. Immediate thoughts running through his mind might be:

    • "What did I do wrong?"
    • "Why didn't I recognize the problem earlier?"
    • "This couldn't happen at a worse time."
    • "My own boss will be furious."
    • "This is one of my best people, and his leaving could cause serious morale problems."
    • "I've already got one opening in my department. I don't need another right now."
    • "What if this resignation starts a mass exodus?"    

His first reaction might be to do what's necessary to keep you from leaving until it's convenient. Once you accept the counteroffer you will be viewed differently. You will be considered a potential risk and not a team player. Your insider status might be revoked.

In reality, nothing has changed and the reasons you wanted to leave in the first place will still exist. In almost every case, a counteroffer is only a temporary fix - a staff technique to keep you until a replacement can be found.

Another thought to consider is the amount of time and expense the potential employer has expended to get you to the point of offering you the position. You participated in the interviewing process in good faith and arrived at an acceptable offer. By reneging on your commitment, you tainted your reputation. It's a small world and your past indiscretions may effect career changes in the years to come.

Your untrustworthy reputation with not only executives in your field but with search professionals may make you untouchable when it comes to job openings they are handling. You'd be wrong to think recruiters don't talk amongst themselves. Being blackballed by the search community can be career suicide.

Keep in mind that topnotch, well-managed companies don't make counteroffers. They won't give in to coercion. When you resign from your company, be prepared to back it up with action. Don't let guilt and flattery effect your plan.

   
THE FOLLOW-UP THANK YOU LETTER

There is nothing more effective than the written word to reinforce what you communicated to a potential employer during the interview process. Thank you letters are a valuable marketing tool that can have a tremendous effect on moving your candidacy forward and pushing you ahead of the competition.

Writing a powerful thank you letter is not just a formality. A well-thought out letter can accomplish many objectives.

Restate Your Qualifications

 Although your qualifications and experience were discussed and evaluated during the interview process, communicating in writing how you will meet the specific needs of the company, demonstrates you understand the challenges of the position.

Example:

The company wants to expand sales in a certain market area. Highlight your experience in developing new territories and your track record in meeting sales quota.

Overcome Objections

If during the interview there were specific questions or objections raised about your qualifications, use the thank you letter to overcome these concerns. Emphasize your confidence in meeting the challenge and dealing with any obstacles to your getting and keeping the position.

Example:

You have met the company’s criteria for sales experience but have not spent as many years selling in their industry as would be ideal for the position. Use the thank you letter to emphasize your effectiveness in completing the sale from prospect to closing and any experience in fields relating to their industry.

Highlight Your Professional Successes

Use your thank you note to communicate how your experience and accomplishments meet their qualifications for the ideal applicant.

Example:

Take the listed qualifications from the job description and pull specific highlights from your career to show how you are a good fit for their position.

A one-page thank you letter is the norm, but more than one page might be necessary for you to include all the pertinent information you want to convey. The company is already interested in you at some level otherwise you would not have been called in for the interview. Use this marketing tool to enhance your chances of obtaining the position. A thank you letter should be counted as one more important component in the job search process.