Express gratitude
Start the conversation or email by expressing your gratitude for the opportunity and appreciation for their time and consideration. Acknowledge the appointment and the effort put into the process of hiring.
Be prompt
Inform them as soon as possible to avoid any inconvenience to the company. Time is valuable, so don't delay delivering the news.
Keep it concise
Keep your message brief and to the point. You can mention that after careful consideration, you have chosen to decline the offer.
Provide a reason (optional)
While not necessary, you might choose to give a reason for declining the offer. You can explain that you have received another offer that aligns better with your career goals or that you have decided to pursue a different opportunity. However, it's important to keep the explanation positive and avoid mentioning any negative aspects of the company or role.
Offer appreciation
Reiterate your appreciation for the offer and emphasize that your decision was a difficult one. Highlight any positive aspects of the process or the company that stood out to you.
Stay professional
Maintain a professional tone throughout the conversation or email. Even if you feel compelled to decline due to salary, benefits, or other factors, avoid expressing these concerns directly. Maintain a positive and respectful attitude.
Offer to stay connected
Conclude your message by expressing your willingness to stay connected or to be considered for future opportunities within the company. This helps to leave the door open for potential collaboration in the future.
How to Turn Down Job Offer
Turning down a job offer can be a difficult decision, but sometimes it is necessary to pursue other opportunities or stay in your current position. If you need to decline a job offer, you should do so politely and respectfully, with a clear and brief reason. You should also express your appreciation for the offer and the employer's time and effort.
Here are some examples of how to decline a job offer;
If you have accepted another offer
Subject line: Job offer – [Your name] [Position]
Dear [the recipient’s name],
Thank you for the offer for the [position] at [company name]. I appreciate your interest in me and the opportunity to interview with you and your team.
After careful consideration, I have decided to accept a position at another company that is more aligned with my career goals and interests. I hope you understand my decision and wish you all the best in your future endeavors.
Thank you again for your time and effort.
Sincerely,
[Your first name and initials ]
If you want to stay in your current position
Subject line: Job offer – [Your name] [Position]
Dear [insert recipient’s name],
Thank you for the generous offer as [position] at [company name]. I appreciate you taking the time to consider me and for answering so many of my questions about the company and role.
After much deliberation, I have decided to stay with my current employer. I have enjoyed working with them and have some exciting projects in the pipeline that I don't want to leave unfinished. I hope you respect my choice and that we can keep in touch in the future.
Thank you again for the offer and the opportunity.
Best regards,
[Your first name and initials]
Source: https://hubforjobs.com/simple-tactics-that-can-help-you-politely-turn-down-a-job-offer