When we look for a job, we focus so much on writing a perfect resume, getting more interviews, and acing the whole application process. However, we sometimes forget that the targeted job may turn out to be something different from what we really want.
In this case, we need to be able to say no. Yet, it is not that easy sometimes. If you don’t want to end your communication with recruiters and hiring managers abruptly, if you want to secure an opportunity to work for this particular company in the future, you need to be ethical in your refusal.
Never say no. Learn to express your thoughts the best you can while being polite and objective. You need to be pragmatic. If you are not happy with this particular offer today, who knows, maybe you will change your mind in the future.
Below you’ll find a few tips on how to decline a job offer politely:
Get Yourself Together
Seriously, no one is standing behind you forcing you to take this job. Do not exaggerate when it comes to turning down the offer. It’s not an existential decision.
Moreover, the company usually has a few shortlisted candidates to choose from. That means your ‘no’ will simply give another person a chance.
So, if you have finally decided to turn down the offer, all you need to do is to write a note to your interviewer or a hiring manager. Do not procrastinate. The quicker you act, the better for everyone.
Keep It Short and Simple
Declining a job offer is a type of communication where people don’t expect too many details from you. For example, whenever you write jobhero reviews or any other feedback, you are usually required to be specific. People want to hear your thoughts, explanations, and rationale for choosing a particular company or service.
The reason why you decided to decline a job offer is not about providing details of your thinking process. On the contrary, they simply expect you to make your choice so that they can proceed further in the process.
Give Your Reason
If you are hesitating about whether to add your reasons or just say no, consider writing something generic. After all, stating that you simply don’t believe that this is the right fit for you is already a good explanation. Don’t end your letter abruptly by simply saying no to the offer. Make sure you talk about your feelings rather than list the company’s flaws.
Do Not Forget to Thank
Just think of it, you have been part of a long-lasting process, and you have already invested a lot. However, you are not alone. Hiring managers and recruiters were working with you all along: organizing, shortlisting, and interviewing. You must demonstrate how appreciative you are of their time and effort.
Even though this “thank you” at the end of letters may seem nothing but a formality, make sure to include it. Consider it a part of business ethics.
Practice Positive Writing
A good idea is to suggest staying in touch in case anything else pops up. This is good for you because you leave the door open. For now, you do not agree to something that you don’t really want to do. Yet, you literally state that you might be interested in future openings as soon as they emerge.
Even if you already target a different job, you don’t have to mention that. After all, no one knows what awaits us in the future. You may still end up being interested in job postings of this particular company.
Samples of Emails to Decline Job Offers Politely
Example 1
Dear Hiring Manager,
Thank you for sending this job offer to me. I greatly appreciate the time and effort you and the team took to interview me and discuss the details of [Position Title] role at [Company Name].
I enjoyed the time we spent discussing my accomplishments and the opportunities the company provides. It was a tough decision, but I believe right now this position is not the best fit for me.
Again, I would like to thank you for your time and consideration. I wish you success in finding the right candidate for the job and I hope we keep in touch concerning your other openings.
Sincerely,
Example 2
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to thank you for the job offer you sent on [Date] concerning the role of [Position Title] at [Company Name]. I sincerely enjoyed our conversation, especially the part where you shared your vision of the ideal candidate for the job. However, after thorough consideration, I decided to accept a position with another company.
Thank you for taking the time to interview me over the past [several] weeks. I appreciate the effort you and the team made to make this process smooth. Best wishes for your continued success.
Sincerely,
If you need more samples, visit Skillhub. There you will find a large number of different examples on every job topic that you need.
Takeaway
Being polite and respectful is key to establishing reliable business partnerships. You need to be prepared to say yes to unexpected offers and decline the ones that make you hesitant. The aforementioned arguments make it clear: politeness is key. Positive communication is important even if you finally decide to decline the offer.
Once you turn down the offer, do not rush to burn bridges. On the contrary, keep in touch with recruiters and hiring managers. Connect with them on Linkedin. This is your investment in your future. After all, you never know if you ever need some assistance from them again.
