Welcome back to Job Offer Etiquette! During this week’s discussion we will be talking about different ways to graciously reject a job offer. Now as we mentioned in Part One, getting a job offer is very exciting. But after looking through the offer and considering your future you may feel it’s best to reject the offer. Delivering bad news is always difficult, but it’s how we handle ourselves that can leave you with a positive outcome.
Firstly, there are many different reasons as to why a candidate would reject a job offer. The terms and conditions are not satisfactory, the employer may have offered below your salary expectations, or the benefits are subpar. The job description has described responsibilities that you are unwilling to accept. You received an offer from another organization and felt it was better to accept that one. Whatever the reason may be, you must notify the person who presented you the offer.
There are three main aspects to rejecting a job offer. First, you should always show your appreciation. In your email or call, thank them for the offer and their time. Second, get right into the reason why you are not accepting the offer. Always be political, for whatever reason you are rejecting the offer you must display how the opportunity was not right for you at this time. Lastly, always leave on a positive note. Thank them once again and suggest staying in touch. Sometimes because of the industry you’re in there are chances of running into each other in the future. It’s best to leave on that positive note and keep things friendly.
When rejecting a job offer you need to make sure it’s done promptly. There is nothing worse than sitting on the decision and making the employer wait. It reflects really poorly on you. Additionally, there is also nothing worse than not responding at all. Giving an employer no notice of your rejection can be detrimental to your career. As mentioned you may run into these people in the future. Imagine the awkward run in after not letting them know you rejected their offer. In Job Offer Etiquette Part One we talked about how exciting it is to get a job offer. But if you are rejecting the offer be meticulous in how you handle yourself. Every action you make is a direct reflection on yourself. Next week we will be discussing different scenarios where it is appropriate to counter the offer.
