How to Decline a Job Offer (With Email Examples)

The offer you were waiting for has arrived, but you're not taking it; or you've chosen between two offers. How to decline a job offer comes down to three words: short, polite and clear. This guide covers how to write a polite rejection, what to pin down before you accept, and example emails for both.

How do you decline a job offer?

With a short, polite message, sent without much delay once you've decided. A good decline has four parts:

• Thanks: For their time and for the offer.

• A clear decision: Not "I'm thinking about it" but "I've decided not to accept".

• An optional short reason: One sentence is enough.

• Leaving the door open: Your paths may cross again.

If the offer came by phone, it's courteous to give your answer by phone too. Then send a short email so the decision is on record.

Do you have to give a reason when you decline?

No. A brief reason makes the message warmer, but you don't need to go into detail. "I've accepted another offer" or "the role isn't the right fit for me at this time" is enough.

If the real reason is salary and you're still interested in the role, consider raising it before you say no. We cover how to put your expectations into words in the salary expectations guide.

A polite job offer rejection email

Hello [Name],

Thank you very much for the offer for the [position] role and for the time you gave me throughout the process. After careful thought, I've decided not to accept the offer. I really enjoyed meeting your team, and I hope our paths cross again in the future.

Best regards,
[Full name]

If you've accepted another offer:

Hello [Name],

Thank you for your offer. I've accepted another offer during this time, so I won't be able to accept yours. Thank you again for your interest and your time.

Best regards,
[Full name]

How do you write a job offer acceptance email?

Before you accept, get the details of the offer in writing, then send a short acceptance. Make sure the written offer is clear on:

• Whether the salary is net or gross

• Start date

• Position and title

• Benefits: bonus, meal card, private health insurance, remote work

To put several offers side by side over a year, you can use the job offer comparison tool.

Hello [Name],

I'm happy to accept your offer for the [position] role. As we discussed, I plan to start on [date]. Please let me know if there is any step or document I need to complete in the meantime.

Best regards,
[Full name]

Can you back out after accepting a job offer?

You can, but it has a cost. Bear in mind the company may already have closed the process with other candidates, and trust will suffer. If you've signed an employment contract, the consequences of backing out depend on that contract; if you're unsure, ask a professional. If you are going to back out, say so as early and as directly as you can.

On e-kariyerim you can move the application to Offer, then to Accepted or Withdrawn depending on your decision, so your list keeps a record of how each offer ended.