It is completely normal to apply for more than one job at a time when you are hunting for a job and it is perfectly fine to get more than one interview call. You go to all the interviews and give your best, but have you ever thought what would you reply to a recruiter when you get more than one acceptance letter unless you are planning to do more than one job at a time.
At a later point after your acceptance, when you reflect on the job you may find various discrepancies like far location, the job being too easy or difficult, bad reviews about the company, or a better opportunity from a good company. Whatever the reason may be, you should decline the job offer in a professional way. So here are a few tips on how to turn down a job offer.
REVISE YOUR DECISION
Think about the consequences of your decision. You can simply tell them the truth and turn down the offer. But don’t expect the offer to be available if you change your mind once again. There is a great possibility that they have already filled up that position with the next best candidate. Once you turn down the offer, it is really very difficult for that company to trust your dedication. They may think that you will leave the company as soon as you find a better option. There is a very low chance that the company you turned down will accept you when all your options vaporize.
The ethical thing to do when you get an acceptance letter is to embrace it and go to the job. But, you can’t go by the hit and trial method with your career and so it is perfectly fine to turn down an offer. But you shouldn’t really inculcate the habit of accepting the job and then turning it down. Inform the employer about your decision as soon as possible.
ACT SWIFTLY
Timing is crucial when turning down a job offer. The other important things to consider are what is your reason and how you are going to pitch it. If you are sure about your decision, let the employer know the same at the earliest. They will appreciate if you tell them your decision in a jiffy. If you keep the employer waiting, it will ultimately damage your reputation in the eyes of the employer.
WHAT WILL YOU SAY?
This is perhaps the most important part. Give them a valid reason for not accepting the offer. The reason should sound polite, concise and diplomatic at the same time. Don’t forget to thank the employer for taking out time to interview you and select you for the position. You may need to contact the same recruiter in the future so don’t burn bridges with your words.
For example, you shouldn’t say some like – “I have received a better opportunity from a better company”, instead, you should say –“thank you for your time and considering me for the role. I have decided to turn down your offer as I have received a better opportunity that fulfills my goals.”
Turning down a job offer is an awkward. Add filters to your job search to avoid such situations.