How to Decline a Job Offer without Regret

Although getting a job offer is exciting, it’s not quite so thrilling to have to decline one that isn’t a good fit. Perhaps the job doesn’t have a high-value proposition, or you’ve already accepted a position at a different company. Whatever the situation, there are ways to decline an offer while keeping the high regard of the hiring manager.

If, after a great deal of soul-searching and number-crunching, you’ve determined that a job offer is simply not the right option for you, there’s no shame in saying no. Nevertheless, you may feel apprehensive about what to say to that potential employer or hiring manager. While it’s perfectly natural to feel a bit hesitant about turning down a job offer, remember that this is not a personal reflection of how you feel about the hiring manager.

There are graceful ways to decline a job offer and steps you can take to ensure that your reputation and future employment choices don’t suffer afterward. When you start by understanding the point of view of your potential employer, you can better explain yourself and come across as a person of character.

If a recruiter has offered you a job, they are hoping you accept and the empty position can be filled. However, keep in mind that the vast majority of companies also want their employees to be happy on the job.

While a disappointed hiring manager may not be thrilled when you reject a job offer, they’ll be happier if you take the time to provide your answer personally, give a clear reason as to why the job isn’t the right fit for you, and announce your decision as soon as you make it. As you keep your potential employer’s point of view in mind, you’ll have a better idea of how to go about the job rejection process effectually.

Once you’re sure that you will be declining the job offer you should move quickly to communicate this response to the hiring manager. They may have already given you a specific amount of time to consider your answer, but if you know your answer before the time is up, be sure to communicate it quickly so they can reach out to other candidates as soon as possible.

One way to alleviate the awkwardness is to keep your response as simple as possible and avoid delving into territory that doesn’t need to be covered. You should give a specific reason for your decision, but this could be something as simple as that you’re accepting another offer or that you don’t feel that this offer is the right fit for you at this time.

It’s important to leave a good impression by responding professionally. The vast majority of job applicants choose to decline offers via email, as this is often the fastest and easiest option available. Keep the relationship in good condition by maintaining a professional image to the end. You may even want to offer a more personal refusal by opting for a telephone call rather than email.

After declining an offer, there are a few steps you can take to leave the door open to other jobs in the future. For example, you might consider providing the names of contacts you know who may be a good fit for this job. Stay up to date with the company or the hiring manager via LinkedIn or other social media accounts to keep lines of communication open.