Tag Archives: Rejecting a job interview

After applying for a job, you suddenly realize it isn’t a good fit or you are presently uninterested in the position. Here are some tips on how to professionally and politely turn down an interview from an employer.  

Be sure you want to reject the interview 

Take some time (not too long) to consider why you turning down this interview. Consider the reasons both good and bad. If there are legitimate reasons such as changes in your personal and family life or you were offered a promotion within your current company, then it is understandable why you are rejecting this job. If you are still unsure, you can still take the interview and clarify any concerns. The job interview, is not the same as a job offer. So doing the interview would be good practice thus improving your interpersonal and communication skills.  

Respond ASAP! 

Promptly decline the interview via email or phone call.  Let the hiring manager know as soon as possible. Do not send a whatsapp message. Be respectful of people’s time, be professional and open up this opportunity for someone else.  

Keep the response short, simple and be polite 

Write a concise and simple response declining to be interviewed. Don’t give too much detail as to why you are rejecting the interview. Be polite by expressing gratitude for the opportunity and make sure you email or call the correct person.  

Don’t avoid responding 

Never ghost or do not respond to a hiring manager about turning down a job interview. This is just disrespectful. Only you know what is best for you in terms of doing a job interview or not. Be professional in your communication to maintain a positive relationship with this hiring manager and the company.  

 

Author: Johanna Thomas