Should I Go Back for a Retention Bonus or Stick with My New Career Path?

Hello all, I've been working in Company A for 2 years and then for another 3 years after they gave me a retention bonus. Three days ago, I quit this company and joined Company B, which offers a better salary (+$600) and a career path (from engineer to manager).

Company A gave me total flexibility (I could come late and go to the office whenever I wanted because I always finished the projects assigned to me). Meanwhile, Company B requires me to come 5 days a week and work 8 hours per day at the office.

Now, Company A has asked me to return for another 2-year contract, offering a sum of retention money that is enough for me to buy a decent car. However, I know that there is no career path there, and my salary will not increase significantly (like $20-$30 per year).

Should I return to my old company or stay in the current one?

Thank you

Well, it's up to you whether you should go back to your company or not. However, as you mentioned, you had more flexibility in your last company since they were aware of how responsible you were in completing projects on time. I don't think you have the same level of flexibility now that you are new to the organization.

Similarly, in your current role at the new organization, since you are new, they may not be fully aware of your level of responsibility. Once they realize your capabilities, you will likely experience a change. It's important to note that you may not receive the same level of flexibility as in your previous company, as each company has its own work culture and policies.

Therefore, it will take some time for both you as the employee and the employer to understand each other. Once you both settle in, you should start to see positive changes in your working environment.

I second our respective member "Couvery"; it is you who have to decide what you want and what your priorities actually are.

Let me ask you first:

- Are you enjoying working with your present employer currently or not?
- Are you scared of not getting the possible time flexibility of time and work with your future employer, which actually is not allowing you to go ahead with another employer today?
- What are your career goals or plans for the future in terms of career and growth?
- Is the money (I would use money, not salary or package) offered by your present employer to retain you enough compared to the expected/offered package and career growth by the new employer?

What you justify is actually very confusing for you, and it is you who first have to consider these things first because the community can just provide you with what they feel is good for you, but here it is about your career and life.

In simple words, I would say that you must go with the new employer.

I understand that you have spent a good time with your present employer, and because you performed well, they appreciated your work, consequently allowing you to work in your style (no time constraint or more flexibility at work). But if you are not seeing a good future or growth here and have a new good option in hand today, then why should you stay more with your present employer, or just for money which is enough to buy a new car?

And if I'm not wrong, you are just enjoying working with them because of flexible time and free work style; otherwise, you are not willing to be with them more.

The new employer is offering you a good package along with growth and learning options, which can automatically give you more money and appreciation (according to your performance).

Be wise with every action, consider the questions above about CAREER AND GROWTH, answer them to yourself first, and I believe you will get the solution to your problem automatically.

Best of Luck

Salary should be only one parameter, but the remaining factors such as working conditions, how the company recognizes you, timings, and all play a vital role in your career progression. Based on the above, you can decide.

Thank you, everyone, for the insights. Answering Anil Arora's question:

- I just joined the new company 5 days ago. I don't know whether at the moment I enjoy working here.
- Well, when I saw the attendance machine, at that time I felt "in prison." Although I keep saying to myself that I'm willing to go every day to the office just to get the money paid by the new company.
- I need career growth more than money, but then... sometimes money knocks me unconscious :) I mean... sometimes I think that perhaps it's best to be an engineer in a new car than a manager in a bus :D
- The money offered to retain me, plus salary and everything, is still below what the new company offered me. But you're right, I enjoy working with the old company because of my total freedom... so, will most of you choose a career (and money, but in the future) instead of money in hand (present money)?

Well, as you have already joined your new employer, you must concentrate on your work presently and not get distracted by things that may not be beneficial for your future and career.

Secondly, I understand that you may not feel comfortable with the new schedule due to the flexible work style and amenities provided by your previous employer, which seems to be the underlying issue here. However, you need to realize that you are a professional, and your focus should be on your work rather than the perks.

Let me remind you of the early days of your employment with your previous employer when you did not have the time flexibilities and free work style initially. You were new there, just like you are now with your new employer, and you eventually earned those amenities after a significant period of hard work (if I am not mistaken) because of your performance.

Please be prudent, avoid further distractions, focus on your work, and earn your income through learning and delivering excellent performance, which will naturally cater to your essential needs.