Turning down a job
Discussion
Hey guys, just after a bit of advice, an employers pov would be handy.
What is the correct/polite/least t
ttish way to accept and then turn down a job offer. I imagine is isn't a very pleasant experience for any employer but one which I imagine happens quite often. I don't believe there is a good way to do it but any suggestions may help.
For instance you have two interviews with one being your preferred option. The 'lesser' option offers you a job before you are offered the 'choice' option. Do you accept incase the 'choice' option doesn't come through or is there a way to say politely ' I will get back to you as you are my 2nd choice'
Any help appreciated guys. thanks
What is the correct/polite/least t
ttish way to accept and then turn down a job offer. I imagine is isn't a very pleasant experience for any employer but one which I imagine happens quite often. I don't believe there is a good way to do it but any suggestions may help.For instance you have two interviews with one being your preferred option. The 'lesser' option offers you a job before you are offered the 'choice' option. Do you accept incase the 'choice' option doesn't come through or is there a way to say politely ' I will get back to you as you are my 2nd choice'
Any help appreciated guys. thanks
GT03ROB said:
rog007 said:
Accept, then if things change, which they do quite often for a whole host of reasons, simply write saying that there has been a change in circumstances and that mean you can no longer take on this role and that you're very sorry for any inconvenience caused.
This...Landlord said:
GT03ROB said:
rog007 said:
Accept, then if things change, which they do quite often for a whole host of reasons, simply write saying that there has been a change in circumstances and that mean you can no longer take on this role and that you're very sorry for any inconvenience caused.
This...No I agree. Saying to someone who has offered you a job, "Do you mind if I wait for a better offer?" will quickly result in the original offer being withdrawn.
I have had it where I made someone an offer and I don't hear from them for days. In the end I withdrew it.
rog007 said:
Accept, then if things change, which they do quite often for a whole host of reasons, simply write saying that there has been a change in circumstances and that mean you can no longer take on this role and that you're very sorry for any inconvenience caused.
Completely this - keep it simple and impersonal, you never know, they might still want you if it does't work out in the future.944fan said:
Landlord said:
GT03ROB said:
rog007 said:
Accept, then if things change, which they do quite often for a whole host of reasons, simply write saying that there has been a change in circumstances and that mean you can no longer take on this role and that you're very sorry for any inconvenience caused.
This...No I agree. Saying to someone who has offered you a job, "Do you mind if I wait for a better offer?" will quickly result in the original offer being withdrawn.
I have had it where I made someone an offer and I don't hear from them for days. In the end I withdrew it.
Of if you have accepted, but have been given a better offer, why not see if they will better theirs.
KrazyIvan said:
You don't have to tell them you are waiting to see if you get another job offer, you could just ask for a few days to think it over before committing.
Of if you have accepted, but have been given a better offer, why not see if they will better theirs.
From my experience as an employer I understand sleeping on it over night, but unless it is a life changing career or location move any more than that and I would just think the candidate wasn't interested or was waiting for a better offer and keeping their options open.Of if you have accepted, but have been given a better offer, why not see if they will better theirs.
As an employer, we do understand that any change of job is life changing to a lesser or greater extent. Some people need more than a few hours to mull over the options. We also know that a good candidate will probably have 2-3 final interviews in the course of a few weeks - law of averages will say that a few will accept one position verbally but have another one come a day later that is their preferred route. Once you sign the contract and agree, however, we get really pissed if you fail to come in; over the last 3 years we have had 2 people never turn up for their fist day; no warning or excuses - just failed to show. Bizarre.
I'd be far happier with an employee for whom we were their first choice rather than have hurried into a decision only to regret it.
Oddly, we do spend a fair bit of time telling people the worst aspect of the company and encourage people in their future team to do likewise. Of course, we also try to ensure they know the positive side .. and our very low staff turnover speaks for itself.
Above all, we look to bring people in who fit into the company culture and values. Selfish, arrogant and conceited employees will destroy the business far quicker than any recession.
So, to the original poster, just let the employer know the truth but don't be a d*ck about it; preferably say why you decided on the other job. If it was only for a small salary difference, not always the best reason in the long run. If it was culture, fit or job prospects, tell them that - it is honestly always great to have such feedback.
You never know what will happen in the future - one of the best bits of business advice I had early in my career was not to burn bridges.
I'd be far happier with an employee for whom we were their first choice rather than have hurried into a decision only to regret it.
Oddly, we do spend a fair bit of time telling people the worst aspect of the company and encourage people in their future team to do likewise. Of course, we also try to ensure they know the positive side .. and our very low staff turnover speaks for itself.
Above all, we look to bring people in who fit into the company culture and values. Selfish, arrogant and conceited employees will destroy the business far quicker than any recession.
So, to the original poster, just let the employer know the truth but don't be a d*ck about it; preferably say why you decided on the other job. If it was only for a small salary difference, not always the best reason in the long run. If it was culture, fit or job prospects, tell them that - it is honestly always great to have such feedback.
You never know what will happen in the future - one of the best bits of business advice I had early in my career was not to burn bridges.
Depending on timings, an employer might tell other suitable candidates that they have not got the job if you accept it - only for you to bin them a week or two later. Not fair on other candidates or the employer.
I would promise to get back to the employers by a certain date, by which date you should know what the options are.
I would promise to get back to the employers by a certain date, by which date you should know what the options are.
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