??Turning Down a Job Offer Without Burning Bridges: How to Stay in Good Standing ??

Dear Readers,

Receiving a job offer is always a morale booster due to the fact it comes with recognition of your ability and the potential you possess.

However, this performance-based reward system may not always be ideal for what you are perhaps searching for at whatever stage you are in your career.

It is never fun to turn down an offer but it should be done professionally in order not to destroy the relationship.

In this article of Navigating Leadership with The Financial Soul ,

I’ll teach you how to say ‘No’ to a job offer politely with the expectation of further communication down the line.

?? 1. Act Quickly: The caption “Time Is of the Essence” stands out as a catchphrase.

Once you have resolved that you will reject an offer, do not hesitate. Do not delay your response, it is advisable to respond within 24 to 48 hours of receiving the offer.

The problem is that hiring managers are themselves under considerable time pressure and waiting too long may lead to irritation and an unfavorable outcome. Receiving prompt replies not only shows the company’s consideration but also contributes to a pleasant interaction.

Example: Suppose you wake up on Thursday and receive a new tempting opportunity, only to decide that it is not what you wanted.

It beats having to wait till the following week and that a phone call or message sent before the close of the week is evidence that the employer will appreciate your understanding of what they are going through.

?? 2. Don’t Hide Behind Email: Make it Personal

Although it can be easier to hit the delete button and avoid the conversation completely, it’s always better to take a call. A personal phone call lets the employer know that you are grateful for such a chance and were willing to reach out to the employer personally.

It shows that you’ve taken your time to prepare, and it is a sign of professionalism, seriousness, and genuine interest in what they are doing.

Example: Sometimes the candidate knows that a company has made an offer after multiple interviews, and sending an email reply may not be as personal.

On the other hand, sometimes it is a mere phone call that can express the gratitude and keep the interpersonal communication line open.

What to say:

“I am grateful for the opportunity to join your team and, after careful consideration of my personal and professional goals, I think this position is not suitable for me at this time. Of course, it was not easy for me to say this, but I hope you understand.

?? 3. When crafting your answer, try to put a positive spin on it.

It is important to express gratitude for the offer made and to explain that the decision to reject it was not made hastily.

Take into account that the company has gone a extra length to make the offer and politely reasons why they cannot accept it.

Do not make negative remarks about the company or the position you are interviewing for. Instead of emphasizing the reason why the offer doesn’t meet your career objectives or personal status.

Example: It might be that the position calls for a transfer and, after evaluating your situation, you learn that you cannot change your location at the moment.

Rather than saying, “I can’t move right now,” frame it positively:

“While I was genuinely interested in this position, I have to take into account my personal needs at this stage of my life and have concluded that now is not the right time for me to make my transition. I would like to thank you for the offer and I hope we could meet again in the future.”

?? 4. Stay in Touch: Maintain the Relationship

It is for this reason that even though you might be rejecting the offer today, you ought to open yourself to the possibility of this company or some of their employees being relevant to your life later on.

Stay in touch with the people you interacted with during the interview process. Just a friendly LinkedIn message or a ‘thank you’ note is enough to keep those doors open for future considerations.

Example: Following your call, you should send a follow-up LinkedIn message:

“Dear [Hiring Manager], I very much appreciate the chance to interview for [role] at [company]. I enjoyed our conversation with you and learning about the work being done here. While the position is not ideal for me at this time, I do want to remain available for other opportunities with the company in the future. ”

It could be that keeping on their radar for possible positions that may come up in the future may be more suitable for you. Of course it is a small world and smb always meets smb again at work, at Congresses etc.

Conclusion:

Nevertheless, knowing how to go about it can sometimes be challenging when turning down an offer. If conducted with the appropriate decorum, it can create a favorable and long-lasting impression and preserve any business relations.

Remember:

• Respond promptly.
• Take it to the next level with a phone call.
• Cooperate your words with politeness while framing a decision.
• Keep in touch for further employment possibilities.

Any career decision is an opportunity to say more about yourself and overcoming a job rejection is a perfect opportunity to prove yourself.

Until next time, please lead with respect and always make sure to leave doors open!

Aashish Singhal

Founder, Navigating Leadership with The Financial Soul

Follow me on LinkedIn? Aashish Singhal

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