How to Reject a Job Offer Before an Interview
Turning down a job offer can be awkward, but the longer you wait, the more awkward the moment will be. Telling an employer verbally is faster than writing a letter, and a letter is a professional courtesy that serves as a follow up to your verbal rejection. If you are in the position of wanting to reject a job offer before you interview, follow the same procedure as rejecting a job offer after an interview.
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Instructions
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Write down what you want to say to the employer. This will make help you present yourself in a more professional manner when you call to the employer or write him a letter or email to explain your reasons for not accepting the job.
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Call the employer as soon as possible after you make your decision. If the employer wants to offer you the job before he even interviews you, do not be so surprised that you do not let him know of your decision quickly. He obviously wants to move quickly in the hiring process, and you must respect that wish.
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Write a letter or email stating that you are thankful for the job offer, but that you cannot accept it. Provide a reason or two for refusing the job but avoid saying anything negative about the employer or the job in your letter. Only give as many reasons as you have or are comfortable giving. Expand on or provide any information you did not give in your phone call if warranted. For example, say, "I appreciate the chance to work with your company. However, I am unable to accept the position because it is not quite in line with my current career goals." If you're accepting another job offer, avoid any comparisons between the companies, such as saying "Another company is offering me a much higher salary and better job title than you."
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Write courteously and respectfully in your letter. Your attitude both on the phone and in the letter with the employer may determine whether he will ever want to hire you in the future. Insulting the employer in any way is not in your best interest, even if you, yourself, are insulted at the low salary he offered or by any part of the job offer.
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