mikewedge, Author at Artemis Recruitment

Receiving a counter job offer can be a flattering yet tricky situation. It often signifies your current employer’s recognition of your value, but it also introduces an emotional and professional dilemma: Should you stay or go? Making the right choice requires careful consideration of various factors. Here’s some tips to help you navigate this decision.

Step 1: Understand the Motivation Behind the Counteroffer

When your employer presents a counteroffer, it’s essential to recognize their motivation. Often, retaining an existing employee is less expensive and time-consuming than hiring and training a replacement. While this highlights your importance, it doesn’t always mean the employer’s concerns align with your best interests. Ask yourself:

Is the counteroffer about you or the company’s convenience?
Why did it take a resignation to spark this offer?

If you suspect the offer is reactive rather than reflective of your long-term value, proceed with caution.

Step 2: Reflect on Why You Wanted to Leave

Before entertaining the counteroffer, revisit the reasons you sought new opportunities in the first place. Was it about compensation, career growth, work culture, management issues, or personal development? A counteroffer might solve financial concerns but leave deeper issues unresolved.

Ask yourself:

Will staying truly address my underlying dissatisfaction?
Will I be content with a temporary fix, or will the same frustrations resurface later?

Step 3: Evaluate the Counteroffer

Objectively assess the counteroffer. Compare it to the new opportunity and weigh the pros and cons of each. Consider:

Compensation and Benefits: Does the counteroffer meet or exceed the new offer in terms of salary, bonuses, and benefits?
Career Growth: Does your current employer offer a clear path for advancement, skill-building opportunities, or increased responsibilities?
Work-Life Balance: How does the counteroffer address flexibility, commute time, or other personal priorities?
Job Stability: Does the counteroffer indicate long-term commitment, or could you be seen as a retention risk after expressing intent to leave?

Step 4: Consider the Professional Implications

Accepting a counteroffer might affect your professional relationships and reputation. Some potential risks include:

Trust Issues: Your employer might question your loyalty, potentially affecting future opportunities within the company.
Limited Growth: Even with a raise or promotion, staying could limit your exposure to new challenges and perspectives offered by the new job.
Burned Bridges: Declining the new offer might close doors with the prospective employer, particularly if you were deep into the hiring process.

Step 5: Seek Advice and Perspective

Talk to trusted mentors, colleagues, or friends who can offer objective insights. They may help you identify blind spots in your decision-making or share similar experiences. Avoid discussing the matter with co-workers, as it could create workplace tension or misunderstandings.

Step 6: Trust Your Instincts

While logic and analysis are essential, don’t ignore your gut feeling. Reflect on where you see yourself thriving:

Do you feel excited about staying, or does the thought of leaving still resonate?
Which option aligns better with your personal and professional goals?

If one choice feels like a compromise of your values or aspirations, it might not be the right decision.

Step 7: Communicate Clearly and Respectfully

Once you’ve made your decision, communicate it professionally. If you choose to leave, express gratitude for the opportunities provided by your current employer. If you decide to stay, ensure your long-term goals are discussed to avoid a similar situation in the future.

Featured in Stylist Magazine, featuring our Founder & Director Joanna Marks.

Work experts, hiring managers and recruiters share the age-old advice they actually recommend you ignore and why.

When it comes to career dilemmas, we’ll often turn to the people in our lives for advice. After all, support and guidance from those around us can be invaluable, particularly if they have previous experience of the issue at hand. But not all advice is created equal, even if it’s offered with the best of intentions.

While tips about looking out for potential red flags during the interview phase can be handy, some popular ‘suggestions’ can do more harm than good when it comes to your career.

From when to quit a job that isn’t working to whether you should really make friends with your colleagues, we asked 11 work experts to share the one piece of ‘classic’ career advice they think should be ignored. This is what they said.

“Don’t leave a job you’ve been in for less than a year”

“Whether the role itself isn’t what you thought it would be or the company culture doesn’t align with your values, sticking it out when you know it isn’t right is not the answer,” says Jessica Brewer, career expert at Emiz HR. “This can be such a destructive piece of advice: staying in an environment that isn’t right for you can become a toxic situation that can take such a toll on your confidence, which can make getting that next role even harder. It can have a long-lasting impact on your career as you feel less capable. Instead, career gaps or short stints can be easily explained in a covering letter, and having a candidate that knows themselves and what they do and don’t want can be more attractive to potential employers.”

“It’s all about who you know”

“Obviously networking is valuable but this is about genuine connections not just going to empty networking meetings,” says Sophie Attwood, PR agency founder and author of Beautiful PR: Finding Your Brand’s Heartbeat For Authenticity In Communication. “Good working relationships are all built on trust and authenticity – simply knowing the right people isn’t enough. People may open doors for you, but consistent results and a reputation for integrity are what keep those doors open.”

“Only apply for jobs you meet all the criteria for”

“When you’re job-hunting, resist the urge to get too fixated on ticking specific boxes rather than thinking about experience and skills you’ve developed from a different type of role,” adds Jo Marks of Artemis Recruitment. “Often employers appreciate the thought process behind an application and will look at someone’s explanation of why and how their transferable skills can be applied.”

Would you ask your boss to take you back? Meet the women returning to the jobs they regret quitting

“Don’t make friends with people at work”

“People are often told they should keep things strictly professional with their colleagues, but it’s natural that the friends you make at work can end up becoming really important parts of your life,” says Sophie O’Brien, founder of Pollen Careers. “Not only is it nice to get on well with your co-workers, it can be beneficial for businesses too. Nurturing authentic workplace relationships can encourage creativity and innovation and it helps teams to build empathy and emotional intelligence.”

“You have to take every promotion”

“Traditionally, promotions are seen as the ultimate sign of career success, but not every promotion will align with your long-term goals,” explains James Lloyd-Townshend, chairman and CEO of Tenth Revolution Group. “Accepting a higher position that doesn’t suit your skills or interests can lead to burnout and dissatisfaction. In some cases, staying in your current role or making a lateral move to build expertise is the better option.”

“Love what you do and you’ll never work a day in your life”

“Whenever we are going through big changes, development periods or even difficult periods, there can often be the idea that you have chosen the wrong career as it shouldn’t be hard,” says Wendy O’Beirne, The Completion Coach. “But even the best job will come with challenges – that is completely normal.”

Ghosted after a job interview? Try this expert advice on what to do next

“Stay loyal to your employer and they’ll stay loyal to you”

“Despite life-long loyalty to a company once being touted as the holy grail in career progression, this outdated advice should be taken with a grain of salt; it’s now equally important for candidates to know when it’s time for a new challenge,” says Jessica Timelin, senior director at Michael Page. “Some may be hesitant to explore new opportunities for fear of being labelled a ‘job-hopper’, but often a hiring manager will look favourably upon those who have proactively stepped outside of their comfort zone and expanded their skillset – with an important caveat. Frequently moving roles prematurely can raise some concerns, so it’s important to find the right time when you feel you’ve reached the goals you set for that particular role, or perhaps exhausted your opportunities within the company.

“When timed correctly, a job hop can build your experience, enhance your skills and create a more appealing CV for future employers. Just be sure that this next step aligns with your overall career goals as well.”

“Never say no to an opportunity”

“You don’t have to say yes to every new project, request or role,” says Lucy Bisset, director of Robert Walters North. “While it is important to be open to new opportunities, adopting a ‘yes’ attitude in every situation can quickly lead to burnout. Of course, you are expected to take on the things that fall under the normal remit of your role – but it’s a big career red flag if you are consistently having new things put on your to-do list without having a say in the matter. Remember, you are your greatest advocate, so if you feel like things are getting on top of you, speak to your line manager and don’t be afraid to push back.”

“Fake it till you make it”

“Worst advice ever,” says Charlie O’Brien, head of people at Breathe HR. “If you’re not open about what you do and don’t know, you’ll break trust with clients and colleagues – and trust is everything. Also, the likelihood is that eventually you’ll get found out, which will knock your confidence. Instead, I’d suggest clearly communicating what you’re good at and your aspirations for what you’d like to learn. This will lead to closer relationships with colleagues, more effective delegation and continuous learning for all. It will also empower colleagues to follow your lead in being honest and genuine at work.”

“Keep your head down and work hard”

Although being invisible is not a virtue, diligence is,” says Anna Petosa, people operations executive and HR expert at Swag Drop. “Being the silent achiever is not enough in the fast-paced workplace of today: the true game-changers are relationship and networking-building. A good company should promote an environment where voicing your opinions and highlighting your contributions are just as important as the actual work. I’ve seen colleagues rise by participating, offering their views and making their presence known – not by working in the shadows.”

“Hide your career gaps”

“If you took time off for travel, extended maternity leave or any other personal reason, don’t feel the need to hide or be embarrassed about it,” explains Ashley Rudd, director of Moda PR. “These gaps can highlight valuable transferable skills. You can build rapport with potential employers and travelling often develops adaptability, cross-cultural communication and problem-solving skills, plus these experiences can demonstrate your ability to handle diverse environments and challenges. Embrace these gaps as a part of your career journey and leverage the skills you’ve gained during this period – I think they add depth and character to your professional profile.”

As Private healthcare recruitment specialists, Artemis know first-hand that private healthcare offers a dynamic and rewarding career path for individuals passionate about making a difference in people’s lives. Excelling in this field requires a combination of skills, dedication, and a commitment to continuous learning and growth. Whether you are a healthcare professional, administrator, or support staff.

Here are some key strategies to help you excel in your career in private healthcare from the UK’s leading private healthcare recruitment consultancy:

1. **Embrace Lifelong Learning**: Healthcare is a rapidly evolving field with new technologies, treatments, and regulations emerging constantly. Stay updated with the latest trends, attend workshops, conferences, and pursue further education to enhance your skills and knowledge.

2. **Develop Strong Communication Skills**: Effective communication is crucial in private healthcare to build trust with patients, collaborate with colleagues, and ensure smooth operations. Practice active listening, empathy, and clarity in your interactions.

3. **Prioritise Patient-Cantered Care**: Put the needs and well-being of patients at the forefront of your practice. Treat each patient with compassion, respect, and dignity, and strive to provide high-quality care that meets their individual needs.

4. **Build Strong Interdisciplinary Relationships**: Private healthcare often involves working in multidisciplinary teams. Foster positive relationships with colleagues from different specialties to enhance patient outcomes and create a supportive work environment.

5. **Demonstrate Leadership Skills**: Take initiative, show accountability, and lead by example in your role. Leadership qualities such as problem-solving, decision-making, and adaptability are highly valued in private healthcare settings.

6. **Maintain Professionalism and Ethical Standards**: Uphold the highest ethical standards, maintain patient confidentiality, and adhere to professional codes of conduct. Integrity and professionalism are essential for building trust and credibility in the healthcare industry.

7. **Stay Resilient and Manage Stress**: Private healthcare can be demanding and stressful at times. Develop coping mechanisms, prioritise self-care, and seek support when needed to maintain your well-being and resilience in the face of challenges.

8. **Embrace Technology and Innovation**: Private healthcare is increasingly reliant on technology for patient care, record-keeping, and communication. Stay tech-savvy, adapt to new tools and systems, and leverage innovation to improve efficiency and quality of care.

9. **Seek Mentorship and Networking Opportunities**: Connect with experienced professionals in the field, seek mentorship, and participate in networking events to expand your knowledge, gain insights, and explore career advancement opportunities.

10. **Celebrate Achievements and Learn from Setbacks**: Acknowledge your accomplishments, learn from mistakes, and use feedback to grow professionally. Reflect on your experiences, set goals for continuous improvement, and celebrate milestones along your career journey.

Artemis Recruitment is a specialist Private Healthcare Recruitment Consultancy, and we know that by following these strategies and embodying a commitment to excellence, you can thrive and excel in your career in private healthcare. Remember that success in healthcare is not just about technical skills but also about compassion, integrity, and a dedication to improving the lives of others.

In the highly competitive private healthcare sector, retaining top talent is not merely an HR objective; it’s a strategic necessity. The success of healthcare organisations significantly hinges on the expertise, experience, and dedication of their medical and support staff. Below is an outline of key strategies for retaining top talent in the private healthcare sector, focusing on the creation of a positive work environment, offering competitive compensation packages, providing avenues for professional growth, fostering a culture of recognition, and maintaining open communication.

Creating a Positive Work Environment: In healthcare, where the demand for exceptional patient care is paramount, a positive work environment is foundational to employee retention. This involves ensuring a physical workspace that supports collaboration, innovation, and employee well-being. Flexible working arrangements, such as remote work options and adaptable schedules, contribute to a healthier work-life balance. Moreover, fostering a culture of inclusivity enhances employee value and retention.

Offering Competitive Compensation Packages: To retain top talent, healthcare organisations must provide competitive compensation packages reflecting the value their employees bring. This encompasses not only base salaries but also bonuses, profit-sharing, and other financial incentives tied to performance. Tying compensation to patient outcomes and quality of care can motivate staff to excel.

Providing Opportunities for Growth and Development: Career progression is pivotal in healthcare staff retention. Offering continuous learning opportunities, such as training programs and professional development seminars, aligns with the career aspirations of healthcare professionals. Encouraging participation in medical conferences and networking events provides exposure and learning opportunities. Clearly defined career paths and regular feedback, contribute to employees envisioning a long-term future within the company.

Fostering a Culture of Recognition: Recognition plays a crucial role in building engagement and loyalty. In healthcare, acknowledging individual and team achievements is essential. Formal recognition programs, performance-based bonuses, and personal gestures like thank-you notes contribute to making employees feel valued. Establishing a culture where effort and accomplishments are acknowledged fosters motivation to continually provide high-quality care.

Maintaining Open Communication: Transparent communication is vital in healthcare staff retention. Employees should feel empowered to share ideas, concerns, and feedback without fear of reprisal. Regular check-ins, and anonymous feedback channels facilitate ongoing communication. Keeping employees informed about company goals and successes builds a sense of belonging. When staff feels heard and aligned with the company’s mission, their commitment strengthens.

Conclusion: Retaining top talent in the private healthcare Industry demands a nuanced approach that addresses the unique challenges of this dynamic field. By cultivating a supportive work environment, offering competitive compensation, providing growth opportunities, recognising achievements, and maintaining transparent communication, healthcare organisations can build a loyal and motivated workforce. These strategies not only retain top talent but also attract new professionals, contributing to the success of private healthcare companies in a competitive landscape.

Private medical development in the UK over the next 10 years is likely to continue to grow and evolve in response to changing healthcare needs and advancements in technology. Some potential trends and developments that may shape the private medical sector in the UK over the next decade include:

1. Increased use of telemedicine and digital health solutions: The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of telemedicine and virtual care services, and this trend will continue in the coming years. Private healthcare providers may invest in digital health platforms and remote monitoring technologies to improve access to care and enhance patient outcomes.

2. Personalised medicine and precision healthcare: Advances in genomics and personalised medicine are expected to drive the development of tailored treatment plans and targeted therapies for patients. Private medical providers may offer personalized health assessments and genetic testing services to help individuals make informed decisions about their health and wellness.

3. Expansion of specialty services and niche clinics: Private medical providers may expand their offerings to include specialised services and niche clinics catering to specific patient populations or medical conditions. This could include clinics focused on mental health, women’s health, sports medicine, and other specialised areas of care.

4. Integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning: Private healthcare providers may leverage artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms to improve diagnostic accuracy, streamline administrative processes, and enhance patient care. AI-powered tools could help healthcare professionals make more informed decisions and deliver more personalised treatment plans.

5. Emphasis on preventive care and wellness programs: Private medical providers may place a greater emphasis on preventive care and wellness programs to help individuals maintain optimal health and prevent chronic diseases. This could include offering health screenings, lifestyle coaching, and wellness initiatives to promote healthy behaviors and improve overall well-being.

Overall, the private medical sector in the UK is likely to continue to innovate and adapt to meet the evolving needs of patients and healthcare consumers. By embracing new technologies, expanding service offerings, and focusing on preventive care, private medical providers can play a key role in shaping the future of healthcare in the UK.

The Positives of Working in Private Medical Practice:

Working in a private medical practice offers a unique and rewarding experience for healthcare professionals. Here are some of the key positives of choosing a career in private medical practice:

1. Autonomy and Independence: One of the biggest advantages of working in a private medical practice is the autonomy and independence it provides. Healthcare professionals have more control over their schedules, patient care decisions, and practice management, allowing them to tailor their practice to meet the needs of their patients.

2. Enhanced Patient Care: Private medical practices often offer more personalised and patient-centered care. With fewer patients to see each day, healthcare professionals can spend more time with each patient, building stronger relationships and providing comprehensive care.

3. Financial Rewards: Working in a private medical practice can be financially rewarding. Healthcare professionals in private practice have the opportunity to earn higher salaries and bonuses based on their performance and the success of the practice.

4. Flexibility and Work-Life Balance: Private medical practices often offer more flexibility in terms of work hours and scheduling. Healthcare professionals may have the ability to create a work schedule that fits their personal and professional needs, leading to a better work-life balance.

5. Professional Development and Growth: Private medical practices provide opportunities for professional development and growth. Healthcare professionals can pursue additional training, certifications, and specialisation to enhance their skills and advance their careers within the practice.

6. Collaborative Team Environment: Private medical practices foster a collaborative team environment where healthcare professionals work closely with colleagues, staff members, and specialists to provide comprehensive care to patients. This teamwork enhances the quality of care and promotes a supportive work culture.

7. Innovation and Technology: Private medical practices often have access to the latest medical technologies and innovations. Healthcare professionals can stay at the forefront of medical advancements and provide cutting-edge treatments and services to their patients.

Working in a private medical practice offers numerous benefits for healthcare professionals seeking a fulfilling and rewarding career. From autonomy and financial rewards to enhanced patient care and professional growth, private practice provides a unique opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of patients while thriving in a supportive and innovative work environment.

Does your experience align with these benefits?

How to Decide When Faced with a Counter Job Offer

Date Posted: November 28, 2024

Written by:

Jo Marks

11 work experts on the ‘classic’ career advice you should always ignore

Date Posted: October 21, 2024

“Don’t leave a job you’ve been in for less than a year”

“It’s all about who you know”

“Only apply for jobs you meet all the criteria for”

Would you ask your boss to take you back? Meet the women returning to the jobs they regret quitting

“Don’t make friends with people at work”

“You have to take every promotion”

“Love what you do and you’ll never work a day in your life”

Ghosted after a job interview? Try this expert advice on what to do next

“Stay loyal to your employer and they’ll stay loyal to you”

“Never say no to an opportunity”

“Fake it till you make it”

“Keep your head down and work hard”

“Hide your career gaps”

Written by:

Jo Marks

How to Excel in Your Career in Private Healthcare

Date Posted: October 16, 2024

Written by:

Jo Marks

Strategies for Maintaining Top Talent in Private Medical

Date Posted: September 24, 2024

Written by:

Jo Marks

Private Medical Growth – UK

Date Posted: September 24, 2024

Written by:

Jo Marks

The Positives of Working in Private Medical Practice

Date Posted: September 20, 2024

Written by:

Jo Marks