Turning down a job offer doesn’t have to be an uncomfortable or awkward conversation or email. In fact, it doesn’t even have to be the end of the conversation or severed professional connections.
Below will be the steps you need to take to decline a job offer without burning any bridges in the process:
Be quick to respond to the job offer, and be clear, upfront yet polite. Phrases like, “I’m honored to be considered for the role” or even a simple “thank you so much for the job offer” should precede a friendly but very clear “no” or declining of the offer.
In some cases, your rejection of the offer has nothing to do with the role or company. You may simply not be ready to leave your current situation or make perhaps a major change. But, oftentimes, you decline an offer because one or more elements of the job are unappealing to you. Perhaps the pay is lower than you expected, or you were hoping for some flex time, or you just realized that you have to relocate to a place that’s unrealistic for your family. Whatever it is, don’t withhold this from the employer. Politely and concisely point out what the biggest drawback to the job is. You never know, they may be willing to work with you on finding a solution, turning your “no” into a “yes.” At the least, though, they’ll appreciate knowing exactly why you turned down the position, and these insights often help to inform hiring practices in the future.
While an emailed reply is fine, an actual phone call in addition to your message is most appropriate. It’s the best way to truly convey your sense of gratitude for the offer; taking the time to call and explain your “no” indicates to the employer that you really value the position (and them), even if you don’t end up taking the job.
Whatever you do, don’t simply ignore the offer, whether you’re uncomfortable with articulating the “no” or it simply falls off your radar. It may not mean much to you, but your silence will be interpreted as rudeness and could definitely be a bridge-burner. Again, these kinds of situations have the power to affect your overall reputation in the field as a trustworthy, forthright professional or, maybe not. How you conduct yourself in these instances could very well follow you (even if you’re unaware of it) for years to come, so act wisely and with integrity.
After you’ve turned down the role, quickly transition (don’t linger on your “no”) into something that could suggest a continued collaboration or ongoing conversation, like offering to recommend another colleague for the role. Express your gratitude and thank each person you come in contact with at the company. Showing your deep appreciation for their time and effort on building the job offer itself (though win-win is not met) reflects your professionalism and therefore, creates a good impression on you and fortifies your reputation.
