A good rejection maintains professional bridges while firmly closing the door on that opportunity.
You might want to include:
- A thank you for the offer
- A clear statement that you’re declining
- A brief, honest reason
- A wish to stay connected
“Thank you for the opportunity, but I must decline at this time.”
“After careful consideration, I’ve decided to pursue another direction.”
“While I appreciate the offer, the position doesn’t align with my career goals.”
“I’m honored to receive your offer but have accepted a role that better fits my current needs.”
“Thank you for considering me, but the compensation package doesn’t meet my requirements.”
Template you could use:
Dear [Name],
Thank you for offering me the [job title] position. After careful thought, I must decline this opportunity. [Brief reason]. I appreciate your time and consideration during the interview process.
Sincerely,
[Your name]
Example:
Dear Mr. Johnson,
Thank you for offering me the Marketing Coordinator position. After careful thought, I must decline this opportunity. The role’s focus doesn’t align with my long-term career goals in digital marketing. I appreciate your time and consideration during the interview process.
Sincerely,
Jamie Smith
Thanking the Employer
Expressing gratitude shows professionalism even when saying no. This approach helps preserve relationships for future opportunities.
Consider mentioning:
- Appreciation for their time
- Specific aspects of the company you admired
- Thanks for the learning experience
“I truly value the time you spent introducing me to your team.”
“Your company culture impressed me greatly during our conversations.”
“The interview process gave me valuable insights into the industry.”
“I appreciate the generous offer and the professional recruitment process.”
“Thank you for sharing your vision for the company’s future.”
Templates for thanking:
Dear [Hiring Manager],
I sincerely appreciate the time you invested in considering me for [position]. The insights about [company name] were enlightening. While I’m pursuing a different opportunity, I remain an admirer of your organization.
Best regards,
[Your name]
Example:
Dear Ms. Williams,
I sincerely appreciate the time you invested in considering me for the Project Manager role. The insights about Innovatech were enlightening. While I’m pursuing a different opportunity, I remain an admirer of your organization’s commitment to sustainability.
Best regards,
Taylor Jones
Declining Based on Career Goals
Important elements include:
- Your specific career direction
- Why the position doesn’t align
- Appreciation for being considered
“My five-year plan focuses on developing expertise in data analytics.”
“I’m seeking opportunities with more emphasis on international business.”
“At this stage in my career, I need experience managing larger teams.”
“My professional development requires more focus on technical skills.”
“I’m looking for roles that allow for more remote work flexibility.”
Template options:
Dear [Recruiter Name],
Thank you for considering me for the [position] at [company]. After reflecting on my career goals of [specific goals], I’ve concluded this opportunity isn’t the right fit at this time. I wish you success in finding an ideal candidate.
Regards,
[Your name]
Example:
Dear Mr. Thompson,
Thank you for considering me for the Sales Associate at Bright Solutions. After reflecting on my career goals of moving into digital marketing analytics, I’ve concluded this opportunity isn’t the right fit at this time. I wish you success in finding an ideal candidate.
Regards,
Chris Martin