How do you turn down a job offer but keep the door open? (2023)

How do you politely decline a job offer but leave the door open?

This was a very difficult decision for me, but the position doesn't fit my career goals. Many thanks for your help and time. I wish you the best of luck in filling the role. I'd also like to leave the door open to work with Cisco in the future, should my situation change.

Simply tell them you won't be taking the job at this time. You can add a reason or two if you want but keep them very short and make sure you're not insulting. Don't close the door. Yes, you basically said no a second ago, but you want to still offer to keep in touch or possibly work together in the future.

I am sincerely grateful for the opportunity. Unfortunately, I have decided to accept another offer with a different company since the role is more aligned with my current career goals. I appreciate your time and wish you all the best. Let's stay in touch.

Reasons to decline a job offer

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.

“After much consideration, I have decided to pursue another role that will offer me more opportunities to pursue my interests in [insert interest] and [insert interest].” “Unfortunately, I have decided not to accept the position, as it isn't a good fit for me at this time.”

If you can, it's better to have a conversation in person or on the phone to explain why you have decided not to take the job. Follow up with written confirmation of your withdrawal. Regardless of why you have changed your mind, express your gratitude and let the company know that you appreciate the offer.

By law an employment contract could begin as soon as someone accepts a job offer, even if they only accepted it verbally. So an employer should not withdraw the offer without also ending the contract. The contract should be ended fairly by giving notice and following the contract's terms.

Not Interested in Making a Move

Thanks for reaching out, but this position is not of interest to me. Thanks for reaching out to me. I am currently not in the market, but feel free to send me anything you think may be of interest. If I know someone who would be a good fit, I'll happily send them along to you.

How do you express interest in a job you turned down?

What is the best thing to say? If the reason you initially turned down the role is no longer an issue for you, the best way would be to approach the hiring manager directly. It is always better to call them and speak with them directly; this will show confidence, and give you a better chance of explaining yourself.

If you feel a job isn't a good fit for you after the application or trial process, you have every right to turn down a job offer. An interview doesn't bind you to a job. It isn't rude or unprofessional to decline a job offer provided you behave professionally.

Can you back out of the job offer? Yes. Technically, anyone can turn down a job offer, back out of a job already started, or renege on an acceptance at any point. Most states operate with what is called “at will employment.” This means the employee and the employer are not in a binding contract.

Express your gratitude for the offer and your continued interest in the opportunity, but don't accept the position right away. Ask for a day to review everything and get back to them with questions and or your formal response. Send your post-review response within 24 hours of receiving the initial offer.

“I really appreciate the opportunity, but I've decided to accept an offer elsewhere. It (short reason why it's a better fit for you) and I don't want to waste your time. Thank you again considering me- I understand why so many people love to work here!”

Give as much notice as possible when you need to cancel an interview. Be honest about why you're canceling, such as receiving another offer or having an emergency. Be polite in your phone call or email so as not to burn bridges.

It's very common for job applicants to request feedback – employers usually take this as a sign you're interested and keen to improve on your abilities – so don't be nervous. But it is very important to be polite.

How do you politely tell a recruiter you are not interested?

The best way to reject recruiters is by being honest and respectful at the same time: acknowledge that it's not your dream job, and give a few reasons why it's not. Make sure these reasons are relevant and don't sound like excuses. For example: "I'm so sorry, I'm not really interested in this position.

Hi [Name of Recruiter], Thank you so much for reaching out to me. Unfortunately, I'm not interested in this position at this time. However, if I find that I'm looking for another opportunity in the future, I'll for sure get in touch.

When a hiring manager says "we will be in touch" after an interview, it typically means that they intend to contact you when they have made their official hiring decision.