Sometimes you need to make tough decisions, and declining a job offer is one of the toughest. Most candidates aren’t sure exactly how to do this appropriately, and can potentially offend a recruiter, preventing any possible opportunities in the future.
However, there are some helpful tips for declining a job offer without burning bridges. You never know where the future may lead, so you must turn down a job opportunity with as much thoughtfulness and grace as when you went into the interview.
How to reject a job offer gracefully?
Don't ignore the calls
Getting calls from a job offer that you decided you don’t want after all? Do NOT ignore those calls! It sets a bad precedent with the recruiters and will likely damage your reputation, not only with the hiring manager but the company as well.
It can feel like, ignoring the call(s) is the easiest way to handle it, because it can be hard to have the conversation when you want to reject a job offer. But all you need to do is answer the calls, and let them know that you’re no longer interested in the position. Thank them for their time and for following up with you. It really is that simple.
Propose a referral
If you believe that the company is really great, but you just don’t want the offer, you can ask if they’d like a referral. Some companies really appreciate that you’d be willing to provide them with a referral.
Finding the right employee can be challenging, and you may know someone who would be a perfect fit. Why not ask the hiring manager if they’d like a referral because you aren’t able to accept their offer at this time?
Be polite
Be polite. Always. Even if you don’t plan to work with that company, you never know what the future holds. The hiring manager at the company whose offer you are declining could one day be working at another company whose job offer you want to accept.
Regardless of the “what ifs,” it’s always important to make a good impression - both when you want a job or are declining an offer. Be respectful, and maintain a well-mannered temperament. Think about what you want to write or say before you do and make sure you’re using “please” and “thank you”.
Don't feel obligated to provide details
You can decline a job offer, and spare the details. A hiring manager may ask why you want to decline their offer, but you are not obligated to tell them the reason. It’s totally up to you.
There are a variety of reasons why a candidate might turn down an offer - perhaps they accepted a position elsewhere, decided not to change jobs or their current job has offered them a raise. Whatever the reason, it’s best to keep your personal reasons to yourself, as your reason could make it sound like their company offer isn’t good enough. You want to avoid any possibility of offending your hiring manager.
This comes part in parcel with being polite and respectful. You want to make sure you aren’t burning bridges or closing and future doors for your career prospects. Once again, take the time to think about what you want to say before you say it. Better to be safe than sorry.
Sample of job decline letter
Hello {first name last name},
I’d like to thank you for taking the time to go through the interview process with me, and I am flattered that you want to offer me the role of {role applied for} at {company name}.
Unfortunately, I must decline your offer. However, I hope that you would consider me in the future for other roles that I might be a good fit for.
I’d like to refer a colleague for this position as I feel they would be a wonderful addition to your team. Please let me know if you would be interested in a referral.
Again, thank you for your time and efforts. They are greatly appreciated.
Sincerely,
{your name}
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