How to Turn Down a Job Offer like a Boss
Skills needed: Interpersonal skills, emotional intelligence, communication
Turning down a job offer is like saying 'No' to a guy or girl who just asked you out on a date. It's just all so sensitive and "egg-shell-y" and probably requires just a little more tact than if you were accepting the job. Why? Well, because the asking party is usually the vulnerable party, plus mismanaging the situation could end up unprofitably for you. So tread softly and say 'No' gracefully, bearing in mind that the future is a crazy plexus of opportunities and you never know who you might meet down the road. Make sure your "No" doesn't have a finite tone to it and whatever you do, one thing should always be at the back of your mind, "future relationships and opportunities".
Below are 5 tips to consider when turning down a job offer:
(1) Be grateful for the opportunity and express it.
(2) Say "No" like you'd say "Yes". If you can, show up in person to turn down the offer, otherwise call in. An email or text should be the last resort. No getting back to them at all is not an option.
(3) Be honest about the reason you are turning down the offer. Better prospects, better renumeration, commute distance, whatever it is, let them know. They just might let you work from home, match that paycheck and promise you a promotion in 2 months! Wouldn't that be perfect?! They might even throw in a travel package and a pet dolphin!
(4) Be assertive about your decision. Be certain that you really don't want the job. Going back and forth leaves you looking inconsistent and may impact future relationships with the organization.
(5) Leave the communication channels open. Connect with your interviewer and other key people you interacted with during the candidate selection process on professional platforms like LinkedIn, if that's ok with them. Be sure to recommend people who you think might fit the role you so gracefully turned down....like a boss.
Did I leave anything out? Please, add below!
