How to Not Burn Bridges After Not Accepting a Job Offer

A polite phone call is an acceptable way to turn down a job offer.

Turning down a job offer is a difficult --- but sometimes necessary --- decision. Perhaps the salary was not high enough, or the job just was not right for you. Whatever the reason, it is important to let the company know why you are not accepting the position without causing anger in the process. Just because the job was not right for you does not mean that the company is not. Staying on the company's good side will help you in any future job opportunities.

Instructions

1. Reply promptly. The company is waiting for your reply and is most likely assuming you will respond right away. Every moment you delay telling them gives them less time to find another candidate. Always reply within a week of a job offer, so that the company does not waste a lot of time waiting on you --- only to learn that you are not taking the job.

2. Call the person who made you the offer. Give the person an explanation as to why you are not accepting the offer but do not give a long, rambling excuse. Inform him that you appreciate the time he and his colleagues spent and explain that it was a hard decision for you.

3. Leave a voicemail or send an email only if you cannot reach the person within a week. A direct phone conversation is best, but it is better to leave a message than to continue putting it off. Remember to follow up with a direct phone call afterward.

4. Follow up with everyone you talked to at the company. This will demonstrate your appreciation for their time and effort and will put you in a more favorable light. Explain your decision and thank them again for the opportunity.

5. Suggest someone you know for the position. This will demonstrate your support for the company and your willingness to help it succeed. If your recommended candidate works out, the person you recommended will be a good contact for you at the company.

6. Stay in touch with the company. After declining the position and thanking them, offer to keep in contact with them about any future opportunities. This shows the company that you are still interested in them, even if the job was not the right fit for you.

References

• Common Good Careers: Turning Down a Job Offer
• Reuters; Management Tip of the Day: How to Turn Down a Job Offer; May 19, 2011
• "The Job Search Solution"; Tony Beshara; 2006