Can I decline a job offer after I already accepted?
In most cases, you can decline a job offer after you have accepted it. If you've signed an employment agreement, check the legal implications before you withdraw your acceptance. 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.
Here are some examples of how to explain your reason: “After careful consideration, I've accepted a position at another company.” “After much consideration, I've decided to decline your job offer to focus on roles that are more in line with my current career goals and the work I was hoping to do.”
Thank you for offering me the position of [Job Title] with [Company]. I appreciate your interest in hiring me. Unfortunately, I have decided to accept a position with another company that is a better match for my current goals. Again, I appreciate the offer and your careful consideration.
“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.”
It's not unethical decline a job offer after initially accepting it; this happens more often than you think, but I wouldn't get into the habit of declining a job offer after initially accepting it.
“Unfortunately, I'm writing to rescind my job acceptance.” “I'm afraid I'll have to withdraw my job offer acceptance.” “I'm so sorry, but it looks like I'll have to back out of this job.” Unless you already have an established relationship with your would-be employer, it's best to keep the tone of the message formal.
Accepting an Offer and Continuing to Interview is a Bad Idea
(The employer can also let you go at any time.)
Thank you for the offer and the time you've spent getting to know me. After careful consideration, I've made the decision to decline this opportunity. While I enjoyed [SOMETHING POSITIVE ABOUT THE HIRING PROCESS OR COMPANY], I have determined that accepting this role is not the right decision for me at this time.
Because of this, I am sorry to say that I will have to decline your generous offer. I want to reiterate that I truly appreciate the offer, and regret that I will not be able to join the company at this time. Thank you again for your time.
- You will not burn a bridge just because you decline a job offer. ...
- Tell the employer as soon as you're sure of your decision. ...
- It's okay to decline the job in an email, but a phone call is better. ...
- You should give a reason, but it can be vague. ...
- Thank them for their time.
How do you decline a job offer with grace examples?
I greatly appreciate your offer of the position of _______ [job title]. I was very impressed with you and the staff members who interviewed me, as well as the direction of the company. I regret, however, that I must decline your offer due to the salary offered.
- It may feel awkward, but do not delay. It is an uncomfortable conversation to have—I like you, but not enough! ...
- Sincerely thank them for their time. ...
- Tell them why you are turning down the offer. ...
- Keep in touch.
References
- https://www.thebalancemoney.com/how-to-turn-down-a-job-offer-you-already-accepted-2061404
- https://www.michaelpage.com.au/advice/career-advice/career-progression/how-decline-job-offer-gracefully
- https://www.bestcolleges.com/careers/how-to-turn-down-job-offer/
- https://www.lifehack.org/573798/how-nicely-decline-job-offer
- https://employment-labor-law.com/job-offer-rescinded-heres-your-options-and-what-to-do-next/
- https://www.upnest.com/1/post/backing-out-of-contract/
- https://zety.com/blog/how-to-decline-a-job-offer
- https://www.hirelehigh.com/post/the-risks-of-reneging
- https://jobs.washingtonpost.com/article/how-to-turn-down-an-offer-without-burning-a-bridge/
- https://www.thecut.com/article/how-to-decline-a-job-offer.html
- https://www.roberthalf.jp/en/career-advice/new-job/change-mind
- https://targetjobs.co.uk/careers-advice/job-offers-and-working-life/can-i-accept-two-job-offers-and-other-questions-about-graduate-job-offer-etiquette
- https://career.vt.edu/job-search/deciding/ethical_issues.html
- https://propertyclub.nyc/article/can-a-seller-back-out-of-an-accepted-offer-on-a-house
- https://pumble.com/blog/decline-a-job-offer-you-already-accepted/
- https://www.michaelpage.co.in/advice/career-advice/career-progression/how-decline-job-offer-gracefully
- https://www.co-oplegalservices.co.uk/media-centre/articles-may-aug-2017/can-i-pull-out-of-a-property-sale-or-purchase/
- https://www.searchwizards.com/2021/06/30/you-already-accepted-an-offer-is-it-okay-to-rescind-for-a-better-one/
- https://www.theskimm.com/money/how-to-turn-down-a-job-offer
- https://www.monster.com/career-advice/article/decline-job-offer-initially-accept-ask-vicki-quora-0318
- https://www.livecareer.com/resources/jobs/offers/sample-declining-letter
- https://ca.indeed.com/career-advice/starting-new-job/declining-accepted-job-offer
- https://alignexec.com/should-you-continue-to-interview-after-accepting-your-first-job-offer/
- https://www.thebalancemoney.com/job-rejection-email-message-examples-2063004
- https://www.flexjobs.com/blog/post/when-change-mind-after-accepting-job-offer/
- https://www.bankrate.com/real-estate/back-out-of-accepted-offer/
- https://work.chron.com/happens-accept-job-offer-another-job-thats-better-comes-along-25997.html