I met with my (current) GM today.
We hadn't had the chance to talk since she went on holiday almost two weeks ago. Since my notice is almost up, she asked if we could have a moment to speak.
It's how (in my mind) most conversations go when your current employer doesn't want to lose you. We went back and forth over the benefits to my staying, the growth of the company division, and the potential for my future. I argued that where I would be going will be a better opportunity.
I felt that she wouldn't give up on me unless I gave her an answer so I gave her the ultimate stall tactic: I said I needed to think about things. I told her that we should meet on Saturday, which is my last scheduled day. This is for added effect.
There is only one question to ask at this point. If she believes in me that much, then I should ask her if she would let me come back if my new venture doesn't work out. A reasonable time frame, like a month, I think would be acceptable.
To me, it's a win-win argument. If the answer is "yes," then I could say that I have nothing to lose and should see this arrangement through, on the grounds that I can have my position back, although I understand that she can't "hold" a job for me. If the answer is "no," then I should agree that my decision to leave is a good one. After all, why would I want to work for a manager that throws out ultimatums or "last offers"?
I think that this course of action would be the best, only because I've made my mind up. There really is nothing I can think of at this point.
Can you?
RM,
ReplyDeleteI have moved up the ladder in my chosen career path with some success, although I've had some hiccups along the way as well.
I have a couple of "rules" that I try to follow now... of course these rules are not static, and I also have a couple of axioms that you may not apply to yourself... one being that money is the most important factor in the decision making process... anyway... maybe these will assist you:
1. I never leave one company for another without a minimum 10% hike in pay.
2. If the reason for my departure is strictly money, and I'm happy with my current employer, I always give them the opportunity to match the offer.
3. Never leave one company for another strictly for "future potential". It's a horseshit carrot.
4. A better title should go with higher pay... If not, you're dealing with amateurs.
Hope that helps... incidentally, I think that the last meeting should be kept strictly amicable... I wouldn't throw out any "test" questions to your boss. The truth is, if you're a good worker and maintain a positive, friendly, yet business-like relationship with your boss, they'll be happy to take you back anytime.
Regards,
M.