It's Okay to Say No To a Job Offer... Even If You're Struggling to Find a Job

I’m taking a deep breath as I nervously try to rally myself to write this post. I know there might be a few raised eyebrows or sceptical thoughts from those who don’t really get it, who don’t really get me. But it’s okay because they’re not the ones I’m talking to. I’m reaching out to those struggling to find a job, to those who may be questioning their professional identity right now, feeling emotionally imbalanced in their careers.

For those of you on this challenging job hunt journey, it hasn’t been easy, I know. My own story in this chapter began with a redundancy last December. Now, as we reach July, that marks nearly seven months of not working full-time. During the first five months, I struggled to land even one interview, applying for jobs from 06:00am until 11:30pm every single day with little to no responses. Then suddenly, in May, it was like a switch flipped and I started getting interviews. The invites came so fast it was almost daily that I was interviewing for a new role and industry. It was exhilarating, but also incredibly daunting, trying to stand out against high-calibre applicants, trying desperately to give the full effort and attention to the different jobs, specialisms and sectors. Despite some renewed confidence, each rejection chipped away at me, intensifying my doubts about my worth and capabilities.

This July is my 10 year anniversary in the marketing world and in that time I have been fortunate enough to never struggle to find opportunities. This year has been a tough new reality to face. The financial strain, the tightening of belts on even the smallest luxuries like visiting my family, it all took a toll, making life seem a little bit greyer, my mental health a bit more frailer.

Then a job offer came through. One that I at first accepted out of desperation despite it not sparking any joy. At the same time, I was interviewing for a role I actually wanted, within a company that truly excited me. Here’s where I might lose some of you: I turned down the safe job offer to chase the one that felt right. In the end I didn’t get my new dream role either. But I still chose not to take on the first job offer. Yes, I am struggling even more to get interviews. Yes, my financial situation has worsened. Yes, I have no prospects on the horizon right now. But would I change my decisions? Absolutely not.

Despite the initial frustration at myself for letting go of a real offer - an incredibly flattering and exciting one - there were substantial reasons for my decision. I bet on myself, thinking I had a real chance at the other opportunity, which didn’t allow me the luxury of waiting. But more importantly, there were big red flags with the first offer that I just couldn’t ignore. If an organisation is willing to disparage existing employees, those who would one day become my colleagues, during my interview, then that was a big cause for concern for me. It was a glimpse into a potentially toxic environment - one that could lead to just another short stint of employment and months of misery.

It may seem counterintuitive to reject a job offer, especially when you’re struggling to find work, but saying no can sometimes be the best decision you can make for your long-term career and mental health. Throughout my career, I’ve learned that not every opportunity is the right fit and that’s perfectly okay. We often feel pressured to jump at the first offer, especially when times are tough. But accepting a role that doesn’t align with your ethos or that flags warning signs, can do more harm than good.

Jumping into a role where you foresee potential problems can lead to stress, dissatisfaction and a quick return to the job market. Our careers aren’t just about being employed, what matters more is about being meaningfully employed. Sticking to your values is crucial. If a company’s culture, ethics or methods conflict with your own, you are likely setting yourself up for conflict and unhappiness. Protecting your professional integrity means making choices that align with who you are and who you want to be in the industry. Accepting a job that doesn’t excite you or contribute positively to your career path can stagnate your professional growth. Every job should ideally be a stepping stone that brings you closer to your ultimate career goals.

In my case, the decision to decline a job offer wasn’t made lightly. Whilst tempting, a lifeline when I desperately needed one, something deep inside told me it wasn’t right. It’s the same voice that has guided me through a decade in marketing, helping me navigate through choices that shaped my career for the better. Because there were times when I didn’t listen to my gut, I ended up accepting opportunities or stayed longer in workplaces that was not only wrong for me but adversely affected my entire being.

And here’s the truth, the times when I did listen to my instincts, the opportunities rejected were decisions I still don’t regret. Not one bit. Yes, I’m still struggling. Yes, the financial strain keeps me awake at night. But I can breathe a little easier knowing I am making decisions that future me will thank me for and I know is staying true to myself and my professional standards.

So you know how we all have those friends who give you advice that other people would completely say the opposite of…count this as one of those, I’m that friend giving you unsolicited, unpopular advice. But truly it’s because I care about you. I care about your wellbeing. Say no if it doesn’t feel right.

What should you do when you’re tempted to say yes out of desperation? Evaluate the role thoroughly. Look beyond the job description, Investigate the company culture if it’s important to you, ask pointed questions during the interview and weigh the pros and cons based on your career goals and personal values. Sometimes, we need an external perspective. Talk to trusted people who understand your professional background and can offer unbiased advice. Our instincts about people and places are often correct. If something feels off, it probably is. Don’t ignore your intuition - it’s a powerful guide.

To those of you feeling the pressure to just take what’s given, remember that your career is a marathon, not a sprint. It’s about finding the right opportunities, not just any opportunity. Hold out for something that not only pays the bills but also brings you joy and fulfilment. It’s okay to say no to a job offer if it means saying yes to your wellbeing and professional integrity.

Always striving for the best, alongside you,

Jessy x