How to Turn Down a Job Offer

Throughout your interview process, you want to leave a positive impression, which can also be construed as being very interested in the position. However, you may come to the conclusion that the job is not right for you. Regardless of your reasons, declining a job offer can prove to be a very awkward situation.

According to Forbes.com, the following tips can be useful if you need to turn down a job offer.

Be sincere and show your appreciation:  Stay positive and let the employer know what interested you in the job and the company in the first place. Remember to thank the hiring manager for the opportunity.  Don’t have an attitude, and don’t burn any bridges. Be respectful of the company and what it has to offer.

Be prepared to give an explanation:  Make sure you have well-thought-out rationale for turning down the job. Be prepared to explain why it was not the right job for you, and cite some specific reasons.

Be timely:  If you decide to decline the opportunity, do so within the week it was offered. This is especially true if the company spent a lot of time and money on your interview and the hiring process. The rejection should be via phone, not email. Speak to the hiring manager, if possible. If the hiring manager is unavailable, promptly send a letter to all those whom you spoke with at the interview. 

A professional attitude can go a long way. You never know. Sometime in the future, you may be considering the same company again for a different position. Keep the door open by showing diplomacy and respect.