How to Decline a Job Interview

You may hear things that make you want to decline a company's offer of a job interview. These could include low salary, poor working environment or minimal benefits. However, before you decline a job interview, keep in mind that you are under no obligation to take the job just because you agree to a meeting.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer with Internet access

Don't Sweat It

1. Take an hour to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of attending an offered job interview.
2. Realize that an interview is not a job offer. Typically, it can't hurt you to go to this initial meeting to find out more.
3. Put your mind at ease by doing further research on the company. Visit the company's Web site and a job search site such as CareerBuilder (see Resources below).

Go to the Interview

4. Attend the interview with an open mind. You may be pleasantly surprised that your assumptions were wrong, or your fears may be confirmed. Either way, you have done no harm and can actually learn from the experience.
5. Ask questions about the information you've heard about the company to clear the air.
6. Inquire as to the company's policies on issues that are of concern to you. Are they working on them or are they happy with the status quo? You can get a great idea of company morale and environment by simply asking.

Follow Up No Matter What

7. Send a thank-you note regardless of the outcome of an interview. This shows respect and class on your part and could come back to help you in the long run.
8. Make a phone call directly to your company contact if you absolutely must decline the interview. Be as polite and courteous as possible.

Tips & Warnings

• See various online job search sites for the pros and cons of declining a job interview.
• In the U.S., federal law prohibits employers from asking certain questions during the hiring process. These include inquiries about your age, race, sexual orientation, religion and marital status.
• Unless you are 100 percent sure you don't want the job, it is usually unwise to decline a job interview. The interview process affords you and potential employers the chance to get to know each other for the mutual benefit of working together. If you base your decision on information that may not be correct, you might be missing out on a great opportunity.

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