NOBODY likes rejection. It's a universal reality. Getting a rejection letter from a company you eagerly wanted to work for is hard enough. But saying no to an interested employer could prove to be harder still. In an age defined by downsizing and lay-offs, landing a job offer is a commendable feat in itself. And so, it is a bit of an oddity if, after completing mission impossible, you plan on turning down a job offer. Well, at times the marvelous chance may not be as suitable as it appears to be. This could be for a number of reasons: either the pay package is not as lucrative as you'd hoped, or the job may not fit in with your career goals or personal values. Sometimes, it could also be that you've applied for multiple vacancies and have already received or are waiting for a better offer from another source.
It could also be that have you have just got to know that the company is not very reliable or is entangled in some legal or financial mess. Sandhya, a job-hunter recalls how, just as she about to accept a job offer, she ran into an acquaintance who casually mentioned that he hoped the company's recent administrative scandals had been resolved!
Whatever the reason be, declining a job offer calls for loads of strength and courage. It is no small matter as your whole career is at stake.
How to say `no' and still win
Think carefully before turning your back on the offer. Once you cross this line, there's no going back. At times, minor drawbacks like your job title, travel time or slight increase in salary are negotiable. Do not let a good job slip through your fingers, as the employer may be open to marginal modifications.
However, if you see no other way out, here's how to say, `Thanks, but no thanks' with poise and élan:
1. Taking a few days time to contemplate the offer is normal. However, if you choose to decline, do not string the employers along. Make your decision known as soon as possible so they can find a replacement quickly.
2. A lot of people prefer to maintain their silence instead of saying `no'. You should remember that the company has invested considerable time and money in interviewing, considering and deciding your candidature. The least you can do is respond properly.
3. Draft a letter explaining why you cannot accept the offer. Be courteous and tactful. Exercise care and caution in the phrasing. A poorly worded rejection can be misinterpreted. Use positive and constructive language, proper etiquette and grace.
4. Be polite. Thank the company for extending the offer. Express your appreciation for their time and effort. You can also soften the blow by sugarcoating it with a word of praise. Refer to the aspects of the company that impressed you and show that you feel honoured by their interest.
5. Do not highlight the negative aspects of the job, be it lack of challenging work or growth opportunities. A straightforward, `I don't feel that your organisation will be the best choice for me', is appropriate. You can even say that you have opted for another company, if you wish to; however, furnishing the details is not necessary.
6. Maintaining professional and courteous relations will leave the door open for future opportunities. You never know when your paths may cross again. Down the road, he could turn out to be a prospective client, associate or even an employer. Moreover, staying in touch can be a shot in the arm for your career as it helps build a good network of contacts.
7. Sending a tactful `thank-you' note will definitely help in keeping your bridges intact. The employer may not like your rejection, but he will understand your reasons for doing so. It will stand you in good stead. As one manager remarks, `I have gone out of my way to hire/refer to my network candidates who have the grace to send a thank you note. This type of class and good upbringing is rare and valuable. I assume that is how they will treat my customers as well, and that's what I want!'
The employer will admire your sincerity and more often than not, he may be the one to walk away with regret over losing you!
PAYAL AGARWAL
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