How to Reject a Job Offer Without Burning Bridges

Got a job offer but not keen on accepting the offer? Here’s How to Reject a Job Offer Without Burning Bridges. Keep it polite and professional.

Congratulations, you received a job offer! But you’ve decided not to take it. Which is still incredible. It is great to be in a position to have options and be able to decline offers. Here’s how to reject a job offer without burning bridges. Because you might not know when your paths with recruiters may cross again. 

Reasons to Rejects a Job Offer

You might be wondering whether or not the reason you want to reject the job offer is valid. There are many good reasons you should reject a job offer. Don’t compromise your happiness and emotional wellbeing. Here are a few reasons to reject a job offer:

Man sitting on stairs typing out an email. Here's How to Reject a Job Offer Without Burning Bridges

How to Reject a Job Offer Without Burning Bridges

There are a few things you need to do when you want to reject a job offer without burning bridges. It is important to be professional and polite. Here’s how: 

Don’t Waste Time – Act Fast

Yes, you may not know how to respond but don’t take too long to respond. Not responding at all is even worse. Figure out what you want to say, reread your message, and send it immediately. Don’t waste any time. 

Start by Saying ‘Thank You’

Even though you are rejecting the job offer, it is always nice to say ‘thank you’ and be polite. Recruiters will always remember you for this, and the kind messages you send. So make sure you leave a lasting impression, even though the job is not a fit.

Get to the Point 

Chances are, recruiters are really busy especially if they are in the search of hiring someone. So keep your message short and get to the point. Avoid rambling about how much you admire the company, try not to get emotional and share personal information. 

Most Importantly – Keep in Touch 

The hiring manager was nice and they considered you a fit for a position. That sounds like someone you want on your side. For networking purposes, provide them with your additional contact information. 

Rejecting a Job Offer – Should You Provide a Reason? 

This usually depends on what your reason for rejecting the offer is. But remember, the reason you are writing the email is not to state why you are rejecting the offer. So don’t let that be the main focus of your rejection letter. 

Get Ahead in Life

Make sure that there will be more and better job offers in your future. How? By upskilling and making yourself irresistible to recruiters. You can do this by enrolling in a course. 

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Last Updated: 17 September 2021

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