After months of searching various job-hiring platforms and handing your CV in here and there, you may feel a sense of joy when you receive the “Congratulations, you’re hired!” e-mail. However, what happens when you wish to decline that offer?
Finding the right words to gracefully decline a job opportunity is an essential skill one should undertake.
To assist you, here are some tips on how to politely decline a job offer.
Don’t wait… respond immediately
Global media company Forbes advises that you respond promptly. This act will show the hiring manager that although you rejected the offer, you are still showing a level of professional courtesy. Forage – a hub focusing on “job simulation” – adds, “Getting this part out of the way makes it easier for the hiring team to move on and find another candidate. It also ensures you don’t burn a bridge by waiting too long to let them know.”
Express gratitude
The hiring team invested much time sorting through CVs to get to yours, so it is only right that you express gratitude. “Make sure to say (or write) that you’re genuinely grateful for the opportunity,” notes Forage.
Provide a reason… if it has a purpose
“It’s unnecessary to provide a long-drawn-out explanation for why you are declining the offer,” says Forbes. “But it is essential to be honest, clear and concise.” Forage also shares, “You can give a specific reason if it will open the door for future opportunities or if you share feedback you think might be helpful to the hiring team.”
Be professional and polite
Forbes notes that when declining the offer, you should keep the feedback positive and avoid sharing negative comments regarding the position, company or hiring manager.
Offer to connect with them
Who knows, future opportunities may arise! “If you want to stay in touch, you can offer to do so and provide any additional contact information,” suggests Forage.
Also see: 25 Types of jobs in SA offering R30,000 and above per month
