It happens. You get a job offer, but the salary is too low, the commute is too long, or you received a better offer from another company. You have to say no.
Many candidates feel so guilty about rejecting an offer that they simply ignore the recruiter's emails. This is a massive mistake. Industries are small, and recruiters move companies. Ghosting a recruiter today might cost you a dream job five years from now.
The 3 rules of declining an offer
- Do it quickly: The moment you decide you aren't taking the job, send the email. The company needs to make an offer to their backup candidate before that person accepts another job. Delaying hurts everyone.
- Be appreciative: The hiring manager spent hours interviewing you. Acknowledge their time.
- Keep it brief: You do not need to write a three-paragraph essay explaining your life choices. A short, polite rejection is all they need.
Template 1: You accepted another offer
This is the most common scenario. It's also the easiest for the recruiter to hear, because it's not personal.
Subject: Job Offer - [Your Name] - [Job Title]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
Thank you so much for offering me the position of [Job Title]. I sincerely appreciate the time you and the team spent interviewing me and answering my questions.
Unfortunately, I will not be accepting the offer. I have decided to accept another opportunity that aligns more closely with my long-term career goals.
It was a pleasure meeting everyone, and I was very impressed by the work your team is doing. I wish you and [Company Name] all the best, and I hope we cross paths again in the future.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Template 2: The role isn't a good fit
Sometimes you realize during the interview process that you don't actually want the job. Maybe the culture felt off, or the responsibilities weren't what you expected.
Subject: Job Offer - [Your Name] - [Job Title]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
Thank you for offering me the [Job Title] position. I am very grateful for the opportunity and enjoyed learning more about [Company Name].
After careful consideration, I have decided to decline the offer. While the opportunity is exciting, I am currently looking for a role that is more focused on [mention 1-2 specific skills, e.g., technical product management rather than marketing].
Thank you again for your time and consideration. I wish you the best in finding the right candidate for the role.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Template 3: The salary was too low
If you tried to negotiate the salary and the company couldn't meet your number, use this template. It leaves the door open just in case they suddenly find more budget.
Subject: Job Offer - [Your Name] - [Job Title]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
Thank you again for the generous offer to join [Company Name] as a [Job Title].
Unfortunately, I must decline the offer at this time. As we discussed, the compensation package does not meet my current requirements. While I would love to join the team, I need to prioritize opportunities that align with my target salary range.
I truly appreciate the time you spent with me during the interview process, and I wish the team continued success.
Best regards,
[Your Name]