How to: say no to a job offer online

Job search is difficult, but interviewing is a real challenge. Particularly in this new world of work, driven by Zoom interviews, non-stop online conferences and telephone conversations, a whole new process for job seekers has begun.

Just after the COVID-19 pandemic began, the global economy faced a downturn and with it hundreds of thousands of jobs pulled off of the market. By around September of 2020, a flood of those positions were put back online, albeit with recruiters now needing to host interviews through video meetings. This has changed the dynamic of the interview process. Remember, that it is most likely for the vast majority of remote jobs, all of the interview process will be online.

That also means that job seekers need to learn the best way to turn down a position, in a primarily online world. Once you have decided on your next career move, how do you reject a position online, via email? Careersaas gives you some handy tips.

Stay in touch

It is a no-brainer to make sure to stay in touch with the recruiter. The recruiter may move to another company that you’re interested in, and your paths are likely to cross again. Offer to stay in touch — it’ll benefit both you and the recruiter in the long-term.

Keep things very simple

You’ll be saving the company recruiter time by getting straight to the point. Keep the email short, and a simple explanation is enough. “Tyre-kicking” over a position will only likely burn bridges with the company and thus for the sake of the recruiter’s sanity, be direct and to the point.

Be polite — say thank you

For the recruiter’s time invested in you, say thank you. Be polite and that will ensure if another position comes and your name is considered, you’ll maybe be in the frame for that role at a later date.

An example email rejection

Below are a couple of examples of a rejection email — polite and straight to the point. This also clearly keeps the conversation open should another position that suits you is available in the future.

Dear Mr. Recruiter,

Thank you so much for the offer to work as an X at your company Y.
I’ve enjoyed the interview process and getting to know you and the rest of the team.
Unfortunately, I’ll have to decline this position, as this isn’t a fit with my career goals at this point of time.
However, I’d like to keep in touch in case at a later date other opportunities arise.
I wish you the best of luck in your search for a candidate.

Kind regards,

Mrs Mrs

Or alternatively:

Dear Mr. Recruiter,

Whilst I have enjoyed meeting you, I regret to inform you that I will not be taking the position at Company X.
I have decided that now is not the best time to leave my current role.
I would like to please keep in touch with you however, and hope that our paths do cross again in the future.
Wishing you good luck in the search for the perfect candidate.

Kind regards,

Mrs Mrs

Turning down an offer from a company never feels particularly nice. But doing this right could well end up with the position of your dreams later on.