@JaredBusch said:
I have never taken a counter offer or even considered it. Think about it this way, if you are worth the salary they are countering with, why did they not pay you closer to that in the first place? I consider that an insult.
I agree with CB, this is a difficult situation. I suppose the best solution might be: interview for a position to get a gauge for your current market place value, If you get an offer but you really like the company you work for, visit with management and let them know you have done the research and need a raise. If they scoff you walk. If they say, OK Jim you've done your homework and we like you so here's your raise, then you turn down the other offer.
The unfortunate thing about this is that most companies won't give you the raise right then and there. They'll give you some kind of song and dance that it's not in the budget, etc, etc. Now this has left the company in one of two positions, a) they will try to acquire the needed budget to keep you, or b) they will start looking for your replacement.
I guess your best bet if they do anything other than simply say, OK, and sign a piece of paper stating you will get the raise on your next check, you kinda have to walk (ok turn in your two weeks notice).