Getting a job offer is exciting when you are involved in a job search. However, not every job offer is one you want to accept. Whether the position isn’t the right fit, doesn’t offer the money or hours you’re looking for, or otherwise isn’t an opportunity you are interested in pursuing, you have every right to say no to an offer. In fact, you owe it to yourself to carefully consider what direction you want your career to take before you accept any position.
While declining an offer is definitely OK, be smart and strategic about doing it. When you are thinking about declining a job offer:
- Express appreciation. The hiring manager has taken the time to get to know you, and others at the company may also have interviewed you. You want to thank them for the time they spent with you. Write a specific and heartfelt thank-you note for the effort.
- Provide a good reason for declining. Your reason should be brief – don’t go into lots of detail. You should also avoid being overly negative. However, you owe the company your honesty. You could simply explain that you’ve decided to go with another company, or that you believe pursuing another role will provide you with more opportunity.
- Don’t burn your bridges. You may come across the hiring manager or other people at the company again later in your career so never be impolite or leave the hiring manager hanging. Be professional, polite and express your hope that you will cross paths at industry events in the future.
These are just a few key tips for declining a job offer that is not the right fit for you. The good news is, when you get help from a professional staffing service, you should be able to weed out positions that won’t work – and you can do so early on in your job search process.
High Profile Staffing has extensive experience helping job seekers to find their ideal position in Dallas, Fort Worth, and surrounding locations. Give us a call at 972-991-7900 or contact us online to find out how we can help you find a job that you will be excited to start.
