A job search is a two-way street. An employer is looking for the right candidate to hire. At the same time, you want to find the company and opportunity that are best going to help you achieve your goals and advance your career. And sometimes that means having to decline a job offer.
There are many reasons turning down a job might be a good idea, from salary and commute to responsibilities and culture. Whatever the specific case for you, you need to approach the conversation in a way that doesn’t burn any bridges. It’s certainly a balancing act, especially when the hiring manager starts asking questions.
To help you handle this situation with care, here are 4 tips to keep in mind:
Be quick about it.
It’s kind of like pulling off a Band-Aid; the faster, the better. Also, you don’t want to be rude and leave the hiring manager wondering. So decline a job offer as soon as you’ve made your decision. Plus, getting the hard conversation over with means you can move on with your search for new jobs in Kansas City.
Pick up the phone.
It’s really tempting to simply shoot off a quick email telling the hiring manager you’re declining a job offer or a job interview. Do it over the phone, instead. It’s going to be an uncomfortable conversation. But the hiring manager will appreciate your more personal approach and the fact that you took the time to call them.
Plan out what you’re going to say.
When you’re turning down a job offer or declining a job interview, you don’t have to write out a script for the conversation. But jotting down a few key notes can be helpful when having difficult conversations like these. That way, you won’t get flustered and nervous about what you have to say. Plus, the hiring manager can’t see you – or your notes.
Keep whatever you say short and sweet and always thank the hiring manager for their time. As for the reason you are declining the job offer or interview, be honest. You can just let them know it wasn’t the right fit, or a more competitive offer came along. They’ll appreciate your candor and consideration in picking up the phone.
Talk to a recruiter at a job placement agency.
If you don’t have another job offer – and are still searching for the right role – consider connecting with a professional recruiter at one of Kansas City’s job placement agencies. They can work with you to get to know your career goals, abilities, and background, all so they can match you with jobs and companies that are a better fit for you.
They can also give you the inside scoop on what it’s like to work at certain companies you’re interested in. That way, you can focus your job search time and effort in a more targeted way.
Ready to put a professional job placement agency to work for you?
Turn to Morgan Hunter. We’re experts at connecting top professionals with rewarding Kansas City jobs – and we can help you, too. So next time you decline a job offer and are looking for professional help from a job placement agency, put Morgan Hunter to work for you. Contact us today to get started or learn more.
