How to Reject a Previously Accepted Job Offer

Turning down a job offer must be done carefully, to avoid burning bridges.

When searching for a job, candidates regularly apply and interview at several companies at the same time. The more jobs you apply for, the better your chances of finding employment. However, this occasionally leads to a situation in which an applicant receives multiple job offers in close succession and might decide to reject a previously accepted offer to accept a more attractive position.

Instructions

1. Plan what you are going to say before you initiate contact. In all likelihood, telling an employer that you are deciding not to take a job you had previously accepted will not be a comfortable experience. Plan a concise, polite and complete explanation for your decision ahead of time so that you can get through the conversation as quickly and professionally as possible.

2. Let them know quickly with an immediate phone call. While it can be tempting to avoid what might seem like an uncomfortable conversation when you turn down a previously accepted job offer, it is important to do so as early as possible. Keep in mind that the company you are no longer planning to work for will need to re-fill your position. To stay on good terms with their organization and employees, give them as much time as possible to begin looking for your replacement.

3. Follow up on your phone call with a formal, written letter. As a courtesy and a way to provide both you and the employer with a written record or your rejection of the position, it is a good idea to send a written document to the company discussing your decision not to take employment there.

References

• Life Script: Learn How to Politely Decline a Job Offer
• Yale University: Accepting and Declining Job Offers