This post is about something that sounds easy, but extremely difficult in real life. Here is a quick take on how to turn down a job offer. Read on!
If you’ve been on a job hunt and applied to a lot of openings, you might soon be in a situation where you have to turn down one or more offers. If you are wondering how to reject a job offer gracefully and not burn any bridges, you are at the right place!
In this post, we’ve compiled a list of tips to keep in mind when rejecting a job offer and email examples that you can use when turning down a job offer!
Also Read: Cashier job description | Everything you must know
How to turn down a job offer?
It is necessary that you do a final gut check before you begin thinking of rejecting a job offer. It is worth taking a moment before you give your final answer. You must be absolutely sure you are not interested in the job. The moment an employer hears “no,” they are likely to move on and reach out to the next person in the pipeline they have seen.
Even if they do not do so, it is unlikely that an employer will consent to hire you after you reject them. Turning them down and then changing your mind is seen as wishy-washy. It implies that you cannot stay faithful to the organization for a long time. Ask yourself these questions when deciding to turn down a job offer
- Why does this job offer not interest me?
- Is the reason why I am not interested in this job offer likely to change at any time?
- Is there a chance I am going to regret turning this job offer down?
- Would taking this job help me get to where I want to be in the future?
If, after answering these questions, you are still unsure, seek to list all the various requirements relevant to you in a job search – wages, benefits, professional development opportunities, corporate culture, distance from home, and the like.
Then, determine how well the job offer suits those needs. Later, in order of importance, stack the different categories. Make sure to note if there are any non-negotiables. Hopefully, this exercise will provide you with a more realistic, data-driven view of whether the job is really the best choice for you or not.
Finally, if you are still feeling lost, it will benefit you to speak to someone you trust – a relative, a parent, a counselor, or a friend.
Occasionally, what you need to clear your head and make the right decision is to express yourself out loud. Once this is done, you can think about how to reject a job offer politely by email or phone. You could even look at how to reject job offer samples to get a clearer idea.
Also Read: Administrative assistant job description | A complete guide
Why should you be careful about declining a job offer?
You may reject a job offer for several reasons. Make sure you are not deciding without careful consideration or for emotional reasons. Think about the financial implications. Can you afford to say no? Do you have other job offers lined up? Review all existing offers carefully. Consider negotiating if the job does not meet the minimum criteria.
1. Citing salary as the reason for the job rejection letter
Salary is one of the main reasons to send a job rejection letter. Over 55% of the job rejections are due to an offer of lesser than expected salaries as perks. But before you jump the gun, consider what salary does someone with your skill sets and experience earns in the city?
Job boards give you an idea about the current pay scale in your sector. You can speak to recruitment agencies and headhunters for a more comprehensive evaluation. Do enough research online, before citing salary as a reason for the rejection.
2. Decline job offer email because culture lack of fitment
Several people send decline job offer emails because they think they will not be a good culture fit. You will not be able to change or negotiate the culture of an organization. To gather more information about the work environment, call up your friends or contact people on your LinkedIn network, or speak to people who worked in the organization.
3. Evaluate job content before rejecting a job offer email
Evaluate if you will get job satisfaction. You can assess the job content by studying the job description against your career goals before sending a job offer email. Try to understand what the organization expects from you and the benchmarks used to judge your performance.
4. Reject job offer email because of flexibility and perks
Several employees give weightage to vacation time and flexible time. Some perks like health benefits are standard issues, while some like vacation days need negotiating. Before you send reject a job offer email, evaluate if your prospective employer can afford the benefits you are looking for and if management is flexible.
5. How to deny a job offer by considering options?
How to deny a job offer? Consider your alternatives, even if don’t have another job offer in hand. If you are presently employed consider the benefits of starting the process of job search all over again and staying on in the company you are presently employed.
Also Read: Office manager job description | Critical items that you must know!
5 steps on how to turn down a job offer
Once you have decided for sure that you are no longer interested in a job offer, it is time to let the company you were interviewing for know about it. Here are a few tips for keeping the process as respectful as possible,
Step 1 – Declining job offer without delay
Generally, a company will allow you some time to ponder a job offer. But, if you have made up your mind before the specified deadline, let them know immediately. This will soften the blow by allowing them to return as quickly as possible to hire someone else for the job.
Step 2 – Choose a relevant medium for declination letter
Most people tend to refuse a job offer over email, which is perfectly acceptable in most situations. But, if you just want to go the extra mile, consider calling them. Even though this is not for everyone, a phone call offers a more personal touch. It can also help you prevent the unpleasant miscommunications from written messages that often occur.
Step 3 – Saying no to a job offer graciously
The process of selecting candidates takes significant time and money from companies. Therefore, you must not insult their commitment by coming off as unappreciative or offensive. Show that you care by thanking them for their efforts and mentioning one or two things about the organization that you have always respected.
Step 4 – Give a valid reason to decline an offer
You may be reluctant to justify why you are turning down the position. By giving a valid reason, you will save the employer from questioning what went wrong. It might even make them enhance their recruitment process.
However, you must be careful with what you choose to share with them. Anything too blunt like “The recruiter was a jerk” will not go well. But, it is perfectly acceptable to say “I connected very well with the staff at the other organization I interviewed for.”
Step 5 – Decline letter message is best left open-ended
You might still be interested in the organization. But, it could be the timing or the particular place that is wrong. If that is the case, consider letting them know that you would love to stay in touch for potential future opportunities.
Also Read: Performance Appraisal | A how-to guide for everyone
Turning down a job offer – 5 templates for offer rejection
Here is a collection of 5 templates of turning down a job offer in the most diplomatic way,
Template 1 – Sample email to reject a job offer politely
Dear [Name],
Thank you very much for the job offer and the time you have spent getting to know me and educating me about the opportunity. However, after much reflection, I am choosing to decline the offer.
While I really enjoyed [one or two things that you appreciated about the company], I will [reason why you are turning down the opportunity]. I would love to keep in touch in the event of a relevant position becoming available.
Once again, thank you for your time, and I wish you the best of luck for filling the position. I have no doubt that you will find somebody incredible!
Kind regards,
[Your Name]
Note: If you are sending a letter, add your Name and your Address (Street name, City, State, Postcode)
Template 2 – How to turn down a job offer over the phone
Hello [Name of the Hiring Manager],
I want to thank you very much for your job offer for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name], but I will have to decline it. I was really excited about this chance and looked forward to working with you. However, something completely unexpected came up, which is why I will be unable to take up the job offer.
[Short explanation of why you cannot work there]
It is a pity that I have to reject this offer. Thank you again for your effort and time. I would love to stay in touch with you and hope that this is not our last conversation.
Template 3 – Job offer rejection letter sample in brief form
Before sending a job letter rejection letter, you need to be positive you do not want the job. Consider negotiating if there are factors like benefits and pay increases. After sending a rejection letter you will not be offered the same job again. Here is the job offer rejection letter sample.
Dear [Name],
Thank you for offering me the position of [job title] with [company name]. Unfortunately, I am unable to accept the position because [brief description of the reason].
I am grateful for the offer. I would like to thank you for taking the time to interview me and briefing me about your [company name] goals and processes.
Hope you find a suitable candidate soon.
Sincerely
Signature
[You name ]
Template 4 – How to turn down a job offer email?
Rejecting a job offer email is one of the ways you can turn down a job offer. Some recommendations on how to turn down a job offer email are,
- Do not procrastinate
- Keep it simple and concise
- Say thank you
- Provide a reason without being specific
- Offer to stay in touch
Dear [Name],
I would like to thank you for the job offer to work as a [job title]. I enjoyed meeting you and the team last week. Sadly, I will have to decline, since [why you reject the offer].
I would like to thank you again for your time and consideration. Best of luck with your search for the perfect candidate. I hope we can collaborate again in the future.
Best Regards
<<Your Name>>
Template 5 – How to decline a job offer after accepting another job?
We often apply to several firms concurrently. You may need to decline a job offer because you have another job offer. Here is a template on how to decline a job offer after accepting another job.
Dear [insert name]
I would like to thank you profusely for offering me the role of [job title] at [ company’s name]. You have an enthusiastic team and excellent product.
After careful deliberation, I have decided to decline your offer. I have accepted a position with another company.
I enjoyed meeting you and your team. It was a pleasure meeting you, and I hope to meet you again in the future. I would like to thank you again for your time and support. Wish you all the best.
Yours sincerely
[Your Name]
Also Read: Performance Goals | A priceless list of tips to succeed
5 templates on how to politely decline a job offer
While looking for a job, it is normal to apply to multiple companies. The selection process in some organizations can be tedious. In the end, you may be in the enviable position of having multiple job offers. You now have to turn down at least one of them. Here are some tips to politely decline a job offer.
Template 1 – How to decline a job offer you already accepted?
We have given a sample letter on how to decline a job offer you have already accepted.
Dear [Name],
Thank you for offering me the position of [job title] at [company name]. I am grateful for the offer the opportunity to work with you and the team.
Unfortunately, after careful thought, I have decided to decline your gracious job offer. Presently I am unable to join you at [company name]. My mother is unwell, I need to return to my hometown to help take care of her.
I am sorry for any inconvenience this may cause and hope it does not affect my future job prospects. I thank you for the opportunity and wish [company name] the best.
Best Regards
[Your name]
Template 2 – Email to decline job offer when the decision was tough
Besides phone calls or letters, you can email to decline a job offer. Here is how to turn down a job offer.
Dear [Name],
Thank you for offering an opportunity to work [company’s name]. I appreciate the time you spent meeting me to discuss the job.
It was a difficult decision, but I am unable to accept the position. Unfortunately, I have accepted an offer from another company more aligned with my current professional goals. I would like to thank you again for the job offer and your consideration.
Best Wishes
[Your name]
Template 3 – How to reject a job offer when there is a work mismatch?
Here is an example of how to reject a job offer.
Dear [name],
I would sincerely like to thank you for offering [job title] at [company name]. I am grateful you trusted my ability and experience for the role. However, after much thought, I am unable to accept this offer.
I was looking forward to working with [company] because of your diverse product portfolio. Unfortunately, I have to say no because the salary does not match my present situation.
It was a pleasure meeting you and your colleagues. My best wishes to you and [company name]. I want to thank you again for the offer.
Yours Sincerely,
[Your name].
Template 4 – How to decline a job offer to stay with your current employer?
Here is a sample of how to decline a job offer to stay with your current employer.
Dear [Name],
Thank you for offering the position of [job title] with [company name]. I appreciate you considering me for the position and taking the time to answer my questions.
After much deliberation, I am unable to accept the position as I have decided that now is not the best time to leave my current position.
I would like to express my graduate for the offer and my regrets that it did not work out. Thank you for the time and best wishes in finding another candidate.
Best regards,
[Your name]
Template 5 – Rejecting job offer email in a neutral tone with minimal words
Here are some tips to rejecting job offer email,
- Keep it short
- Show your gratitude but clearly state you are not taking the job
- Give a short reasons
Dear <Name>,
Thank you for offering me an opportunity to work in [position] for [company]. Regrettably, I have to decline the offer presently, as I have accepted a position that is more aligned with my professional goals.
I would like to express my gratitude for the offer and the chance to meet your team. I wish you the best in your search for an ideal candidate.
Thanks again.
Best Regards,
[Your name]
Also Read: Performance Management Process | An ultimate read for best results
15 more templates for how to turn down a job offer
Here is a list of 15 templates on how to turn down a job offer. You will find the relevant information on how to turn down a job offer and the samples needed for each situation.
Template 1 – Decline a job offer when you have accepted another offer
Rejecting a job offer because you have been offered another (better) job is typically an odd position to be in, but remaining on good terms with the employer is still necessary. Keep the decline job offer email or letter clear and concise.
If you are wondering how to decline a job offer when you have accepted another offer, here is a sample that you can improvise on,
Dear [Name],
I would like to thank you so much for offering the role of [Job Title] with [Company] to me as I have agreed to take up a job with another organization after much consideration.
I sincerely respect you for having taken the time to interview me and give me this job. Wishing you all the very best to find someone that fits the role.
Thank you so much again for your offer.
Kind regards,
[Your Name]
Template 2 – How to reject a job offer because of salary?
In most situations, there will be plenty of opportunities to negotiate a wage before you have to completely decline a job offer. However, if you have done your part to negotiate a compensation agreement, and the organization in question is unable to meet your standards, you may want to clarify this respectfully when you refuse the offer.
If you are wondering how to reject a job offer because of salary, here is a template,
Dear [Name],
Thank you very much for your phone call earlier today and for the offer of the [Job Title] role at [Company].
I sincerely respect you for taking the time to speak with me about salary expectations. Unfortunately, as the salary does not meet the financial requirements of my current living expenses, I will have to decline the position.
Again, thank you for your consideration, and I wish you all the very best in finding someone fit for the role.
Kind regards,
[Your Name]
Template 3 – How to reject a job offer when it is not the right fit?
It is not unusual to go through the interview phase only to find that the position you have been interviewing for is different from your expectations. It might not fit with your career goals. If that is the case, send a cordial but direct message in the decline job offer email or letter.
If you are wondering how to reject a job offer when it is not the right fit, here is a template,
Dear [Name],
Thank you so much for offering me the chance to work as [Job Title] at [Company].
After much deliberation, I have decided that I will not accept the position. This is because it is not the right fit for my long-term career goals.
I deeply appreciate the offer and wish you every success in finding the right candidate for the job. I wish you and the company well for all future endeavors.
Kind regards,
[Your Name]
Template 4 – How to turn down a job offer when the company is not the right fit?
If the company doesn’t appeal to you, avoid negative language and simply explain that the job is not suitable for your career needs. If you are wondering how to turn down a job offer when the company is not the right fit, here is a template,
Dear [Name],
Thank you so much for offering me the [Job Title] position at [Company]. Unfortunately, I have decided not to accept the position, because, at this time, it is not the right fit for me.
I appreciate this offer and your consideration. Once again, thank you for your time, and I wish you all the best in choosing someone appropriate for the role.
Kind regards,
[Your Name]
Template 5 – How to decline a job offer that you already accepted?
There might come a situation when you might not be able to proceed with a job offer that you already accepted. This could happen due to personal reasons or because you found another appealing opportunity. It is important to be clear in your email. If you are wondering how to decline a job offer that you already accepted, here is a template,
Dear [Name],
Thank you for providing me with a job offer for the [Job Title] position on [Date].
I was very grateful to you for your consideration. I was delighted to receive your offer because I was impressed by your company. Hence, I accepted your offer.
Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances, I will now have to reject the job offer. [Brief description of why you cannot take the job there]
I trust that [Company Name] will continue to grow and achieve great heights in the future.
Kind regards,
[Your Name]
Also Read: Employment History | A comprehensive guide
Template 6 – How to reject an offer if your response is already delayed?
Once you are sure you are no longer interested in the job offer, it is time to let the firm offering the opportunity know your decision. Remember to act quickly, consider the medium of correspondence, respond politely, offer a reason, and leave it open end. Here is how to reject an offer graciously.
Dear [Name],
Thank you for the offer and the time you spent getting to know me during the interview and briefing me about the job profile.
However, after reflecting, I would have to decline because I have accepted another position that is more in line with my career path. I would love to stay in touch in case a relevant position comes up. I would like to thank you again for everything and the best of luck in filling the position.
Best Regards
[Your Name]
Template 7 – How to decline a job offer but leave the door open example?
In the current job scenario turning down a job can be complicated. After clearing the interview process when you are offered the opportunity, it can be awkward to reject it. But if handled well it can be a way to create and solidify a relationship filling the position. Here is how to decline a job but leave the door example.
Dear [name],
Thank you for considering me for the position. I am flattered, and I wish I was in a position to change jobs presently. I recently started freelancing and it is keeping me busy.
However, I am grateful that you considered me for this opportunity, and I hope you will consider me for vacancies in the future. I am sure you will find a fantastic candidate for the vacancy.
Thanks again
[Your name].
Template 8 – How to say no to a job offer when you have financial constraints?
When you are offered a job, there are opportunities for negotiating a salary before rejecting a job offer. Here is how to say no to a job offer.
Dear [Name],
I would like to thank you for your phone call yesterday and offer of the role of [job title] at [company].
I appreciate you taking the time to discuss salary expectations with me. Unfortunately, I am declining this role since the salary does not meet my present financial requirements. Thank you again for your consideration, and I hope you find a suitable candidate for the position soon.
Kind regards
Your name.
Template 9 – How to turn down a job interview?
You may be given a chance to interview for a position or company. There could be several reasons you could be uninterested in the position. Here is how to turn down a job interview.
Dear [Name],
Thank you so much for considering me for the [job title] position with [Company]. However, I regret that I will have to withdraw my application presently. I am grateful for the opportunity. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely
[Your name]
Template 10 – Turning down a job offer after accepting
Turning down a job offer after accepting must be done after careful consideration. Here is a template letter you can use.
Dear [name],
I was thrilled to accept a job offer for [job title] at [company name]. I have always wanted to work at [company name] and I enjoyed interacting with you and your team last week.
Unfortunately, on further consideration, I must turn down the job offer. This is a very difficult decision for me, but I am unable to relocate presently.
I would like to thank you for your help and guidance. I wish you all the best in finding the right candidate. I’d like to keep a door open to work with [company name] in the future, should my situation change.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Also Read: Team Building | Everything you must know
Template 11 – Rescinding an accepted job offer sample letter
Here is a template for rescinding an accepted job offer sample letter.
Dear [Name],
I want to thank you for offering me the [job title] at [company name] and for the time you spent with me during the interview process. When I accepted the offer, I was sure it would be a perfect match.
After additional reflection, I must regretfully rescind my acceptance of your generous job offer. While I hold you, your team, and [company] in high esteem, I am unable to accept the offer presently due to personal reasons. Thank you again, for the time and effort.
Regards
[Your name]
Template 12 – Turning down a promotion
You may want to turn down a promotion in your company for several reasons. Here is a sample letter for turning down a promotion.
Dear [Name],
Thank you for considering me for the position of [job title] at [company name]. I am flattered you choose me to fill the vacancy.
As you know, I have been working towards this promotion for some time. Unfortunately, I am unable to accept the promotion because[reason] e.g. conflict with other areas of my life. I hope if an opening comes up at a later time, you will keep me in mind. I would like to thank you for the offer and the confidence in my ability.
Sincerely,
[Your name]
Template 13 – How to turn down an interview after accepting another job
If you have accepted a job offer you may have to turn down other interview offers. Here is how to turn down an interview after accepting another job.
Dear [Name],
I’m grateful for the opportunity to interview at [company name] for [job title]. Since I applied for the position, I was offered and accepted a job in another company. I respectfully turn down the offer. My best wishes in your search for a candidate.
I would like to thank you again for considering me for this position. Please contact me if you have any other questions.
Sincerely,
Your name.
Template 14 – Job refusal letter when you had a bad interview
One of the most common reasons for job refusal letters is you have another job offer. But it is still important to inform a potential employer. You can send the letter by email, write a concise job refusal letter.
Dear Name,
I would like to thank you for offering me a position of [job title] with [company]. After much thought, I have decided to accept a position with another company.
I sincerely thank you for taking the time to interview me and offer me this role. I wish you the best in finding a suitable candidate. Thank you again for your consideration.
Kind regards
Your name.
Template 15 – Turning down a job offer without burning bridges
When you decline a job offer you must be prompt. You should not drag things out. Here is a sample for turning down a job offer without burning bridges.
Dear [Name],
Thank you for the offer for [job position]. I appreciate the time to took to interview me and answer my question regarding [company name] and my job role. However, after due thought, I am unfortunately declining the job offer because the job position is aligned with my current career goal. I enjoyed meeting you and your team.
You were warm and courteous during the interview process. I would like to thank you again. Best wishes for your success.
Sincerely
[Your Name]
Also Read: Disgruntled Employee | A complete guide
Maintain a good relationship after declining a job offer
If you really want to keep in touch with an organization going forward, including it in your letter of refusal is a decent starting point. However, it is still not enough. If a position opens six months down the line without any further contact from you, the chances are that the recruiter will not remember you.
You need to put some extra effort to really stand out in their minds. You may want to send an additional email or message after you turn down the job offer. The message could reiterate your interest in the business and share which roles you may be open to down the road.
You could also indicate at what point you might consider revisiting the interview process. This will help make sure that they first think about you if any relevant opportunities arise. Adding them on LinkedIn, if you have not already, is another great way to stay in touch.
You could regularly post updates on your accomplishments to enhance your credibility. Finally, once you are ready for a new job, check in with your recruiter contacts and ask them for any suitable vacancies for you. Declining an offer is a big choice and may seem intimidating. But, when it comes down to it, it is just about approaching the company the way you want to be approached.
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