Accepted a better role, turned down a counteroffer, and now the vibe at work feels off. Is this normal?
I’m currently working through my notice period and wanted to get some outside perspective.
I’ve been with my current company for a long time and have performed strongly. My part of the business has been one of the better-performing areas, and I’ve carried a fair bit of responsibility across revenue, clients, and team leadership.
Recently, I accepted a new role with a much larger and more recognised company. It’s a significant step up for me career-wise, both in terms of brand and earning potential.
When I resigned, my current employer came back with a counteroffer. They made it clear they wanted me to stay and were willing to improve my package. I appreciated that, but I ultimately decided the new opportunity was the right move for my long-term career.
Since I declined the counteroffer, the vibe has changed.
My direct manager hasn’t really communicated my departure properly to the wider business, even though more junior people leaving seem to get more attention. My MD has become more standoffish. I’ve also started hearing little comments along the lines of “if it falls apart” or “if it doesn’t work out,” which makes it feel like people are quietly expecting or hoping the new role fails.
Before resigning, I felt valued. But now it feels like once I didn’t accept the counteroffer, that changed. There’s also a bit of a “we’re a family here” culture, but in practice it feels like loyalty is expected even when career progression is limited.
I’m trying to stay professional and not overthink it, but the shift in energy is noticeable. Part of me wonders if this is just normal when someone senior leaves, especially if they were contributing strongly. Another part of me thinks maybe some companies only value you while they still think they can keep you.
Has anyone else experienced this after turning down a counteroffer?
Is it normal for management to become cold or dismissive once you’ve committed to leaving?
And how do you mentally handle the notice period when you’re already checked out but still trying to leave on good terms?