How to Decline a Job Offer Politely: 15 Messages
Feeling the pressure of declining a job offer? You’re not alone. It's a tough spot to be in, especially when you want to maintain a positive relationship with the employer. The key is to be courteous and clear, and below are fifteen messages that can help you do just that, sorted by tone and relationship.
Thank you so much for the opportunity to join [Company Name]. After careful thought, I've decided to pursue another path at this time.
I truly appreciate the job offer at [Company Name]. It was a tough decision, but I have decided to decline.
This is suitable when you want to be direct.
It was a pleasure meeting you and the team at [Company Name]. After much consideration, I've decided to accept a position elsewhere that better aligns with my career goals.
I am grateful for the offer for the [Job Title] role. However, I have decided not to proceed at this time. I hope we can keep in touch for future opportunities.
Maintains a future connection.
Thank you for the offer to join [Company Name] as a [Job Title]. After some thought, I believe it's best to decline. I appreciate your time and consideration.
I'm honored to have received the offer from [Company Name]. Unfortunately, I'm unable to accept due to other commitments. Thank you for the understanding.
Thank you so much for the offer. After weighing my options, I've decided to pursue another opportunity that is a better fit for my current career path.
Keeps the door open for future discussions.
I greatly appreciate the offer to join your team. This was a difficult decision, but I have chosen to decline as it’s not the right fit for me at this time.
Thank you for considering me for the position. I have decided not to accept the offer and hope we might work together in the future.
Simple and to the point.
I sincerely thank you for the job offer and the opportunity to interview with [Company Name]. I've chosen to accept another offer but hope to cross paths again.
I'm grateful for the offer to work at [Company Name], but at this time, I've decided to go in a different direction with my career. Thank you again.
I appreciate your generous offer, but after careful consideration, I have decided to pursue a different opportunity. Thank you for your understanding.
While I'm excited about the opportunity at [Company Name], I've decided to go with another role that aligns more closely with my goals. Thank you for your time.
Thank you for the offer. After much thought, I have decided to decline and focus on opportunities that match my current career trajectory.
I'm truly thankful for the offer to join [Company Name]. After careful consideration, I've chosen to decline. I wish the team continued success.
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What not to say
- ✗ "I'm not interested in this job."
It's abrupt and can come off as dismissive, damaging future relations.
- ✗ "I found a better offer."
It implies a transactional view of the job offer and can offend the employer.
- ✗ "Your company's not the right fit for me."
This can sound insulting and close the door to future opportunities.
- ✗ "I need more money than you’re offering."
Focuses on salary as the sole reason, which can come across as greedy.
- ✗ "This wasn’t what I was expecting."
Can suggest that the employer misrepresented the role, which might not be well-received.
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Build a personal messageQuestions people ask
Is it better to call or email when declining a job offer?
Email is generally preferred for declining a job offer, as it allows you to carefully consider and articulate your reasons. It also provides a written record of your decision. However, if you have built a close rapport with the hiring manager, a phone call can be a nice personal touch.
How soon should I decline a job offer after receiving it?
As soon as you know your decision. Promptly declining a job offer is respectful of the employer's time, allowing them to move forward in their hiring process. Ideally, respond within a few days of receiving the offer.
Should I give a reason for declining a job offer?
While you are not obligated to give a detailed reason, offering a brief explanation can help maintain a positive relationship. You might mention a better alignment with another opportunity or personal reasons without going into specifics.