There will come a time in your job search when you need to decline a job offer. Whatever your reasons, it is always essential to decline a job offer politely and professionally. When done respectfully and thoughtfully, job declinations are a great way to demonstrate your character as a worker. You know your worth and what you need and want from your job and can recognize when you and a role don’t fit.

From the moment you receive a job offer that doesn’t fit, knowing how to decline the role is the key to avoiding burnt bridges and a damaged reputation. 

Not sure how to politely decline a job offer? Here are four tips to help you out.

Promptly Decline the Offer

Once you have decided to decline a job offer, don’t delay doing so because you’re afraid of an uncomfortable conversation. Once you decide, contact the hiring manager or recruiter and let them know. This frees you to pursue other roles that suit you better and frees the company to extend the offer to another candidate.

Be Personal

It may be tempting to inform the employer via email or text, but a phone call is a more professional and personal way to get in touch. A phone call makes it clear that you appreciate the time and effort that went into recruiting you and that, while you must decline the offer, you respect the company and the people who work there.

Share Your Reasons Honestly

Share the reason or reasons why you are rejecting the offer. You don’t have to go into detail, but providing that information to the hiring manager or recruiter can help the company identify areas for improvement.

Remember to be tactful about it. If the salary was too low, say you’ve been offered a higher salary elsewhere.

Gracious and Grateful

Gratitude is essential when declining a job offer. Always thank the hiring manager or recruiter for their time and the opportunity to learn about the position and the company. A sincere thank you goes a long way and may pave the way for future opportunities.

 

Declining a job offer isn’t easy, but when it comes to employment, you have to do what is best for you. Stay positive and professional, be clear and concise, and remember to thank the interviewer and express interest in future opportunities with the company.

Navigate Your Job Search with a Recruiter in Maryland

Beacon Staffing is one of the leading temp agencies in Baltimore and Aberdeen that connects job seekers with top administrative and light industrial positions. Our professional job recruiters will guide you through the entire hiring process to alleviate any concerns and ensure you’re prepared to take the next step in your career. For more information about our temporary employment agency in Maryland, contact Beacon Staffing.

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