How to Turn Someone Down for a Job

Properly turn someone down for a job.

When you have decided not to hire a job candidate, proper business etiquette calls for you to properly turn the candidate down by writing a letter. You can turn someone down for a job with some consideration of what to write in just 10 minutes.

Instructions

1. Type your name, title, company name and address, today's date and the name and address of the candidate at the top of a letter.

2. Thank the candidate for submitting his application, talking with you on the phone or meeting with you regarding the position.

3. Tell the person what you believe her strengths are for the position, but inform her that you have decided to hire someone with qualifications and skills that better meet the needs of the company at this time.

4. Inform the applicant you will keep his resume and other submitted materials on file for 90 days, and you will revisit the application, should a position for which he might be suited come available.

5. Wish the candidate luck in the future, and thank her again for submitting her application.

6. Make sure to sign and mail the letter.

References

• Charlotte Business Journal: Rejecting a Strong Job Candidate

Resources

• Letter Samples: Sample Letter for Rejecting a Job Candidate