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Best ways to turn down a job offer

So you're trying to find work, you apply for so many jobs you can think of, and your interview at some of them. And you discover yourself in the sought-after position of having two offers on the table, or perhaps you're offered three jobs at the same time.

Isn't that amazing? But the fact that you must decline at least one or two of them. That isn't always simple. Alternatively, sometimes a formal offer does not match, even if you applied for the position expecting it would. It's never easy, but it's often essential to turn down a job offer. Below are some tips on how to graciously decline a job opportunity, and also example email that you can tailor to your specific situation.

Demonstrate your appreciation

Image for part: Demonstrate your appreciation

First, appreciate the prospective employer for the opportunity and for their time. Interviewing prospective applicants is a part of the job, but this individual has most probably spent hours browsing your resume, stalking your social media accounts, and interviewing you. They have gone out on a limb to promote you to other teammates. As a result, a sincere particular—thank you for your time and initiative will go a long way. For instance, Thank you for considering me for the role of Social Media Manager and replying to my questions about the business and the position.

Describe the reason 

It is a sensible thing to provide a reason to the employer why you're turning down the job offer. And, you don't have to go into detail about the possible problems you noticed in your prospective employer, brag about the incredible benefits at the work you did accept, or complain about how you've focused the last week worrying over your decision. The effective strategy is to be short and to the point but sincere about your valid cause for declining the position, such as;

  1. I have already sent a job offer acceptance email to another organization.
  2. While this job appears to be a fantastic opportunity, I intend to take on another job offer that will allow me to explore my interests in data science.

You can give more detail to provide some context. For instance, My colleague referred me to an organization and had gone via interview sessions before receiving an offer, so I realized I owed the recruiting team a detailed description. I conveyed how much I liked getting to understand the group and why the role was so appealing to me, but I also communicated that I had another offer that would finally guide me in the path of my career aspirations.  

Remain in contact

The job-hunting world is small, particularly in some sectors. As a result, providing some small positive comments before signing off is always a viable option. If you can, refer back to something you mentioned, such as an occasion or conference you both participated in. Alternatively, you can say that you want this individual the best of luck in the future. For example, I hope to meet you at the seminar next month.

Email template I

Here are some example email templates for turning down an offer;

Dear Employer [name]

Thank you for considering me for the job of [position] at [organization name]. Although it was a tough choice, I accepted the job offer from another corporation.

I thoroughly enjoyed our interactions and am grateful for the chance to interview you.

Thank you for your time and consideration. 

Sincerely

Email template II

Dear Employer [name]

Thank you for the chance to work at ABC Pvt Ltd. Unfortunately, I can not accept the job offer because it does not align with the path I am going to accomplish my career objectives.

I'd want to express my sincere gratitude for the offer, and my disappointment that it did not work out. You have my best wishes in reaching the right person for the job.

Sincerely

Things to include in a job rejection letter

The following information must be added in the letter;

  • Expression of gratitude for the offer
  • The offer was rejected in writing.

Write the email to the hiring manager for offering you the job. Even if your contact details and mobile number are already on file with the company, provide them.

There's no need to go into great detail about why you're turning down the offer. Do not add any offensive explanations, including a bad workplace setting or apprehension about the corporation's long-term viability and revenue.

Tips for gracefully turning down a job offer

  • When you have decided not to pursue the offer, call or email the recruiter immediately to let them know. Don't delay because it will cause them a lot of trouble, which will transform setbacks into unhappiness that you did not inform them earlier.
  • People decline job offers through email all the time, so if you go that pathway, the world will not end. However, calling and speaking with the hiring manager is a gracious initiative as they have given you the job.
  • This may appear unfair, given that companies commonly reject candidates without giving any reason, but you can maintain the association if you provide some clarification for your decision. Your reason does not have to be a detailed description of your concerns about the job.
  • When you reject the offer, respond by saying, I genuinely value the efforts you spent discussing with me about the role, and I hope our paths may cross in the future. If you appreciated the corporation or the hiring manager and consider you may be willing to work with them in the long term. For instance, I'm very much fascinated by the work you are accomplishing and would be glad to be a part of it in the future, although it did not work out this time.

Turning down a job offer is not something you expect. But, thankfully, there is a way to manage it cordially and professionally—while also making it a little less uncomfortable. Applying these tips will help you prevent affecting your connections and reputation and create a positive impression of yourself that will unlock the gates to potential prospects.

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