HOW TO TURN DOWN A JOB OFFER WITHOUT BURNING BRIDGES

You’ve made it through the selection process. The job offer is in the bag, but you’re not going to take it. Whatever the reason, act now! It’s never easy to say “no”, especially when you’ve built up a good relationship with the hiring organisation. But it’s worth doing it well.

Here’s how to turn down a job offer without burning bridges.

AVOID GHOSTING

It can be tempting to simply disappear. People do it in the world of work all the time – leave emails and voice mails unanswered, avoid picking up their phone. Don’t be one of them! You never know when you might cross paths again with a hiring manager. They might end up as one of your clients, or your neighbour at your next conference.

BE PROMPT

No-one likes to be kept hanging in the balance. If you’re not going to take the job, let the hiring manager know as soon as possible. You’ll save them time and energy and pave the way for another applicant to reach offer stage. And you’ll allow yourself to emotionally move away from the hiring organisation and job offer.

BE POLITE AND PROFESSIONAL

Whether you choose to call the hiring manager or send them an email – and both are acceptable – keep things polite and professional. Yes, you’re the bearer of bad news but you can still leave them with a positive impression. So, you may want to practise before you make that call. Or run a spellcheck through any written correspondence before you hit send.

PROVIDE A REASON

Explain why you’re turning down the offer. Perhaps you’ve decided to stay in your current organisation. Maybe you feel that you’re not the right fit for the role. Or perhaps the salary package doesn’t meet your expectations. You don’t need to write an essay – a concise one-liner is enough.

When turning down a job offer, remember the three Ps: promptness, politeness and professionalism. They’ll enable you to cross that bridge with ease (rather than burning it) . . . and come back to it in the future should you choose to do so.

The team at Optimal Recruitment are committed to building positive relationships with jobseekers and hiring managers. Contact us today on info@optimalrecruitment.com.au or 02 8416 4181 to discuss your job search or recruitment needs.