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15 examples of how to turn down a job offer

Finding it hard to reject a job offer? This blog post will teach you how to turn down a job offer with 15 examples and templates that will make declining a job offer an ease.

Mail Maestro

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Lawrie Jones

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So, you've gone through the interview process and been offered the job, but what do you do if you don't want it?

There are two ways to decline a job offer: the right way and the wrong way. In this guide, we explain how to decline a job offer politely.

We answer the most frequently asked questions and concerns about declining job offers, run you thorugh examples of the common scenarios while turning down a job offer and finish with 15 email templates that you can use to reject the offer, including managing the tricky task of how to decline a job offer you have already accepted.

Declining a job offer – the frequently asked questions

Let's start by answering some of the common questions people want to know about how to decline a job offer.

Is it unprofessional to decline a job offer?

The interview process is about getting a job offer. Once that offer is on the table, you enter a new phase. "The next stage is about weighing that offer and then negotiating with your new employer," says Rebecca Knight in the HBR. You don't have to accept the job; you can choose not to.

It's unprofessional to accept a job you don't want or won't commit to.

In some cases, turning down a job is the professional thing to do.

What is a good reason to decline a job offer?

You may wonder what the best reason to reject a job offer is? Like the experts at Monster Jobs, we believe honesty is the best policy. If you're worried about the position, don't think the salary is enough, or are holding out for a better job, then say so.

It may seem rude, but being constructive can help the recruiter's future efforts.

Is it rude to decline a job offer?

Declining a job is a form of rejection, but in most cases, these people aren't your friends, and they won't take it personally (or they shouldn't).

If you follow our guidance on how to decline a job offer professionally, you'll protect your reputation. But, on the other hand, if your response is unclear, or even worse, you don't send a response at all, you're being rude.

Can I decline a job offer after signing the contract?

This is where it gets a little trickier. You can decide whom you work for. While there are no rules against declining a job offer after signing the contract, it could cause the recruiter problems and be considered unprofessional.

So, the answer to the question: can I decline a job offer after signing is: yes, but it could impact your reputation and almost certainly will stop you from ever being offered a job with the company again.

Reasons to decline a job offer

There are an almost infinite number of reasons to decline a job offer. However, the reasons for not taking a job often boil down to a few fundamentals, including:

Issues with salary, terms or conditions
You've been offered a new job
You've received a promotion, pay rise, or both!
You're happy to stay with your old employer
You need to decline a job offer due to family reasons

While your privacy should always be protected, we encourage you to explain why you're turning down a job. Of course, you don't need to go into detail. Still, a brief explanation is a common courtesy. As demonstrated in our examples below, it will earn you respect and help improve your professional reputation.

How to turn down a job offer

Here are 10 top tips on how to turn down a job offer without upsetting or offending the recruiter. Don't worry if you find it hard to turn down a job; we show you how to use these concepts in our examples below:

Make sure to send a message – so many people don't bother to turn down a job offer. Instead, they ignore the email. Don't be this person.
Sent it ASAP – Ideally, you should reject the job the same day if possible. Why? Because the company may want to offer it to someone else.
Be 100% professional – Friendly emails are acceptable in some circumstances, but when you're rejecting a job offer, be formal (and never try to be funny).
Say thanks, but… – Start each job rejection email by thanking them. This reflects the time, effort, and investment they've put into the process.
… don't leave the news to the end – State early in the message in unequivocal terms that you're turning down the job.
Provide a reason (unless it's personal) – While you don't have to provide a reason for tuning down a job, you should.
Let the recruiter know what you liked about the company, but… – Everyone likes a compliment, so if you've got something nice to say, then say it.
…keep it short – Nobody needs chapter and verse on your reason for turning down a job offer.
Close the door (if you want) – Email rejections can sometimes be used as part of a strategy to increase pay and conditions. If you're happy to manage this process, then great, but if it's a firm no, then say so.
Proofread every email – Nothing says unprofessional than a poorly written email filled with errors. Check it before sending!

Subject for declining job offer

The subject line for declining job offers should be clear and polite, but you'll want to ensure that the person receiving it reads it. The simplest email subject line for declining a job offer is to use your name and the job title separate with a hyphen, say experts.

So let's see how that works:

Sarah Jones – Marketing Executive Position

You can flip it, so it reads:

Sarah Jones – Marketing Executive Position
Marketing Executive Position – Sarah Jones

Both approaches are going to be highly effective. Make it stand out if you want to ensure your message isn't missed during a busy day. Here's how:

Urgent: Sarah Jones – Marketing Executive Position
Please Read: Sarah Jones – Marketing Executive Position

If you have a job reference number, be sure to include that in the email subject line for declining a job offer.

How to decline a job offer - 15 examples

Online you'll find hundreds of examples of how to decline a job offer. Still, very few of them delve into the details and specifics you'll need for your situation. In our 15 examples of how to decline a job offer, we provide real-world templates you can use. You'll find basic how to decline a job offer examples alongside more challenging emails, such as how to decline an offer after you've accepted it.

The key to using any of these declining job offer email examples is to personalize them to your situation. Ready to go? Here are 15 how to decline job offer samples.

How to professionally decline a job offer

We start with an example of how to properly decline a job offer. This is a standard approach that covers the basics. Feel free to adapt this professional job offer rejection template for your role.

Dear (Name),

Thank you for your recent job offer. Unfortunately, I don't feel the opportunity is right for me at this point in my career, and I am declining it.

I appreciate the time you have spent through the process. I hope you successfully identify a suitable candidate for the role.

Yours sincerely,

(Your name)

How to politely decline a job offer

The professional email above can be pretty formal, so here's an example of how to respectfully decline a job offer.

Dear (Name),

Thank you for your recent job offer for the position of (job title) at (company).

I enjoyed the interview process and learning about your company. However, after some reflection, I am going to decline the opportunity.

While the position offers massive potential for the right candidate, I'm keen to take my career in a different direction.

I wish you all the best and once again, thank you for the offer.

Yours sincerely,

(Your name)

How to decline a job offer due to salary

Deciding how to decline a job offer due to salary is challenging. First, you'll need to decide whether your decision to decline a job offer for salary is a deal-breaker or whether you're willing to negotiate. In this template for how to decline a job offer email due to salary, we leave the door open and invite the employer to come back with a counteroffer.

Hi (Name),

It was great to receive your recent job offer. Unfortunately, however, I am unable to accept it at this time. While the position suits my skills and experience, the starting salary is too low.

My current employer has offered to match the salary, so I am considering staying with them. However, if you're prepared to increase the starting salary, I would be interested in learning what you can offer.

Please feel free to contact me at any point to discuss this.

Yours sincerely,

(Your name)

How to decline a job offer you already accepted

Declining a job offer you've already accepted is going to be tricky. First, you'll need to be clear about why you accepted and why you've subsequently decided to reject it. In this sample of how to decline a job offer you accepted, we're very apologetic, reflecting the impact your decision will have on the business. Here's one way to gracefully decline a job offer after accepting it.

Hi (Name),

My situation has recently changed, and I regret to inform you that I'll no longer be able to join you as (job name).

I appreciate that this news will disappoint you, and the decision was hard to take. I would like to explain why I have taken this decision. (Insert details here).

Once again, thank you for your kind offer of employment, and I wish you well in the future.

Kind regards,

(Your name)

How to decline an internal job offer

Declining an internal job or promotion is especially tricky as you'll continue to work for the same organization – and in some cases, the same building, or even the same team. However, the principles here remain the same: say thank you, decline the job, explain why, and move on. Here's how to decline an internal job offer.

Hi (Name),

Thank you for offering me the position of (job title). I recognize there's a huge opportunity here. However, I believe that I am better suited to remain in my current role at this time.

I recognize that this news may be disappointing, but I hope you can understand my decision.

Kind regards,

(Your name)

How to decline a job offer after accepting another job

Few of us apply for just one job; in fact, the average person sends out between 10-15 every week, says Indeed. So it's likely to be a regular occurrence that someone accepts a job and then is offered another one, but that doesn't make the news easier to take.

Here's a sample of how to decline a job offer because of another offer that will ensure you keep your professional reputation intact.

Dear (Name),

I recently accepted the position of (job title). However, I have since been offered a role that suits my skills, experience, and career plans more closely and am now not prepared to take up the role.

My decision has been tough to make. I understand this will affect your plans and apologize for any inconvenience this may cause you.

Many thanks,

(Your name)

How to politely decline a job offer on LinkedIn

Recruiters will regularly use LinkedIn to approach you for new roles. The etiquette on how to decline a LinkedIn job offer is slightly different. You can be less formal and briefer because you're instant messaging rather than emailing.

Here's our recommended way how to decline a job offer on LinkedIn.

Hi (Name),

Thanks for reaching out to me with your job offer. I'm flattered you'd think of me for this role, but I'm happy where I am now.

Thanks for reaching out to me with your job offer. I'm flattered you'd think of me for this role, but I'm happy where I am now.

Let's stay connected, and if things change, I'll be in touch.

Many thanks,

(Your name)

How to decline a job offer because of location

If you're required to move, you may think twice about accepting a job. Here's an example of how to decline a job offer requiring relocation.

Dear (Name),

Thanks for offering me the post of (job title). While the job itself is a great opportunity, I'm unfortunately going to have to decline because of the costs and implications of relocating.

I hope you can understand and respect my decision, and I wish you well in your search for a suitable candidate.

Your,

(Your name)

How to decline a job offer and recommend someone else

If you work in a specialist field, you may want to recommend someone else when rejecting a job. But, you never know, it could all work out, and you're doing the potential employer a huge favor!

Hi (Name),

Thanks for your recent job offer. While I'm flattered to have been offered the role, I'm unable to accept it as I have been offered another position that more suits my career plans.

I hope this news doesn't come as too much of a disappointment to you. While I know you have interviewed several candidates, I would like to recommend a former colleague of mine. (Insert details)

I urge you to get in touch, and I hope things work out for you.

Thanks,

(Your name)

How to decline a job offer for personal reasons

Sometimes life can get in the way of your dream job. It can be tough to decline an appointment for personal reasons, but you must send that message. It's up to you how much detail you go into about your challenges. Here's how to decline a job offer for personal reasons.

Dear Recruiting Manager,

Think you for your recent job offer. I'm currently experiencing some issues in my personal life, which means I'm currently unable to commit to the role.

Think you for your recent job offer. I'm currently experiencing some issues in my personal life, which means I'm currently unable to commit to the role.

I wish you well for the future and hope you find a suitable candidate.

Kind regards,

(Your name)

How to decline a job offer from a previous employer

Declining a job offer from a previous employer is tricky as you'll already have established a personal relationship with them. Here's how you can thank them for the offer and gracefully decline. This same template can be used to decline a job offer from a friend.

Dear (Name),

Thank you for your job offer. I have great memories working at (Company name) and value everything you have done for my career. However, currently, I'm not seeking to move roles.

I trust you can understand and respect my decision. Please stay in touch as plans can often change.

Cheers,

(Your name)

How to decline a job offer due to distance

Faced with a lengthy commute, you may want to turn down a job and find something a little closer to home. Check out our example of how to decline a job offer due to distance.

Dear (Name),

Thanks for offering me the role of (Job Title). While the job is an incredible opportunity, unfortunately, I'm going to decline as the commute is too far.

While I initially hoped that the distance wouldn't be a problem, it's a significant barrier to reflection. I would want to let you down, so I feel it's fairer to decline the role.

Kind regards,

(Your name)

How to decline a job offer due to benefits

Salary is a critical part of the package, but you'll want the benefits in the modern world too! Things like holiday entitlement, flexible working, and more are all essentials. This email outlines how to decline a job offer due to benefits.

Hi HR Team,

Thanks for your recent job offer for the role of (Position). I've checked the terms and conditions of employment and cannot accept them as some of the crucial benefits I expected are not included.

Specifically, I was expecting (include details).

I understand this news may be disappointing, and I wish you well in the recruitment process moving forward.

Kind regards,

(Your name)

How to decline a job offer due to family reasons

Personal reasons and family reasons are often the same, so you'll find this example of how to decline a job offer due to family reasons is similar. But, again, feel free to add much or as little detail as you want to.

Hi (Name),

Many thanks for offering me the position of (Job name) at (Company). Due to family reasons, I cannot accept the role at this time.

(Enter details if you want to)

I hope that you can understand and respect my decision.

Many thanks,

(Your name)

How to decline a job offer after an interview

Sometimes, you may realize you don't want to move further in the recruitment process after an interview. In that case, use this sample of how to decline a job offer after an interview.

Hi (Name),

Thanks for taking the time to interview me for the position of (Job title) on (Date).

While the role seems exciting, I've realized that it's not for me at this time. So rather than waste your time on future interviews, I feel I should remove myself from the process.

I hope you can understand my decision. Good luck with finding the right candidate!

Thank you,

(Your name)

How to decline a job offer with low pay

One of the main reasons to turn down a job is salary. You can beat around the bush or say it straight. We recommend being upfront; you never know – they may match your expectations. In those circumstances, you can use this sample of how to decline a lowball job offer.

Hi (Name),

Thanks for your recent job offer. I've reviewed the terms and conditions, and unfortunately, the salary doesn't meet my expectations for the role.

I feel it's fair that I'm upfront with you and make this clear to avoid misunderstanding or disappointment.

Please let me know if you're willing to reconsider the salary answer can chat.

Many thanks,

(Your name)

8 bonus reject offer templates - Ready To Use

The Reject offer email templates are a crucial resource designed to alleviate the discomfort associated with rejecting a job offer. These templates cater to a broad audience, from seasoned professionals to recent graduates, and serve as guides on how to reject a job offer politely. Rejecting an offer doesn't mean burning bridges; it's about maintaining positive relationships and keeping future opportunities open.

Hence, knowing the best ways to decline a job offer is a vital skill to possess.

These professional offer rejection email examples provide a polite and respectful way to communicate your decision. They are tailored to various scenarios, whether you have a better opportunity elsewhere, or personal reasons prevent you from accepting. Not only do these templates save time, but they also ensure your rejection is professional, courteous, and leaves room for future collaborations.

Template 1: Rejection Due to Unsatisfactory Compensation Package

This template is for when the compensation package offered does not meet your expectations or needs.

Email Templates

Subject: Re: Job offer from [Company Name]

Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],

I am grateful for the offer and for considering me for the role at [Company Name].

However, after thorough consideration, I have concluded that the compensation package

does not meet my current professional needs.

I hope we have the opportunity to reconsider this in the future.

Best Regards,

[Your Name]

Template 2: Rejection Due to Role Misfit

This template is for when you feel the role does not fit your career path or skill set.

Email Templates

Subject: Re: Job offer from [Company Name]

Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],

Thank you for considering me for the role at [Company Name]. After careful consideration,

I believe that the position is not the best fit for my career path and skill set.

I appreciate your understanding and look forward to potentially crossing paths in the future.

Best Regards,

[Your Name]

Template 3: Rejection After Accepting Another Offer

This template is for when you have already accepted a job offer from another company.

Email Templates

Subject: Re: Job offer from [Company Name]

Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],

Thank you for your offer for the position at [Company Name]. I appreciate your

time and consideration. However, I have decided to accept an offer from another company that

aligns more closely with my career goals.

Best Regards,

[Your Name]

Template 4: Rejection Due to Relocation Issues

This template is for when you cannot accept the job offer due to relocation issues.

Email Templates

Subject: Re: Job offer from [Company Name]

Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],

Thank you for considering me for the role at [Company Name]. Unfortunately, due to

relocation issues, I am unable to accept the offer at this time.

I hope we can consider working together in the future when circumstances change.

Best Regards,

[Your Name]

Template 5: Rejection Due to Company Culture Fit

This template is for when you feel the company's culture does not align with your values or expectations.

Email Templates

Subject: Re: Job offer from [Company Name]

Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],

Thank you for considering me for the role at [Company Name]. However, after

careful consideration, I believe that the company culture may not align with my

personal values and expectations.

I appreciate your understanding and look forward to potentially crossing paths in the future.

Best Regards,

[Your Name]

Template 6: Rejection Due to Personal Reasons

This template is for when you need to decline a job offer due to personal reasons that you may not wish to disclose in detail.

Email Template

Subject: Re: Job Offer for [Job Position]

Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],

Thank you very much for offering me the [Job Position] at [Company Name].

After careful consideration, I regret to inform you that I must decline the offer

due to personal reasons.

I appreciate the time and effort you and your team have invested in the hiring process,

and I wish [Company Name] continued success in all its future endeavors.

Best Regards,

[Your Name]

Template 7: Rejection Due to Lack of Career Advancement Opportunities

This template is for when you feel the job does not offer adequate opportunities for career growth or advancement.

Email Template

Subject: Re: Job Offer for [Job Position]

Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],

Thank you for extending the offer for the [Job Position] at [Company Name]. After

careful consideration, I have decided to decline the offer as I believe the role does

not align with my long-term career goals and aspirations for advancement.

I appreciate the opportunity and the time you took to consider my application.

I wish [Company Name] all the best in finding a suitable candidate for the role.

Best Regards,

[Your Name]

Template 8: Rejection Due to Work-Life Balance Concerns

This template is for when you feel the job may not offer a satisfactory work-life balance.

Email Template

Subject: Re: Job Offer for [Job Position]

Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],

Thank you for offering me the [Job Position] at [Company Name]. After thoughtful consideration,

I have decided to decline the offer as I believe the role may not provide the work-life balance

I am seeking at this time.

I am grateful for the opportunity and appreciate the effort you and your team

put into the hiring process.

I wish [Company Name] continued success and hope our paths may cross again in the future.

Best Regards,

[Your Name]

Conclusion

We hope we've described how to decline a job offer professionally to the extent that you feel more confident facing the tough decision. Turning down a job offer is challenging, but you'll keep your professional reputation intact by following our tips on politely declining a job offer.

Before you decline a job offer, be sure to take the time to craft a genuine reply that shows your appreciation even though you are turning down the offer. Follow our guidelines here, and you won't go wrong.

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