Saying No With Grace
When you turn down an offer, do it so that you leave behind a good impression.
Creativity is the ability to see relationship where none exist.– Thomas Michael Disch
When you are looking for job, you tend to send your resume to a string of organisations and search consultants/agencies. As a result, you get many interview calls. To keep your chances of employability high, you also start attending them one by one. The problem begins only when you are amongst those fortunate few who land up with multiple offers on hand and don’t know how to decline some of them and yet leave a positive lasting impression.
While reading this, some of you must be wondering what’s the big deal? It’s so easy - just don’t respond or keep postponing it till the message gets home. If you think, then you surely in for a disaster. as you will leave behind a bad reputation. So what do you do then? How do you handle this situation? The five steps mentioned below will not only help you reject a job offer gracefully but also build a new relationship:
Do not procrastinate: When you have decide to turn down a job offer, it is best to communicate your decision to the employer without any delay. You may choose to do so by meeting her/him in person, on the phone or formally through an email or letter. it is considered rude and unprofessional to ignore the offer or keep the other person waiting.
Be friendly, but firm: There is no need to sound apologetic and feel guilty about not being able to join their organisation. Handle this with great tact and professionalism. Thank the person for the offer and appreciate things about him or the organization which impressed you. Just make sure you are specific as it create a greater impact on the person.
Keep it short: There is absolutely no need to get into explanations of the way you choose to take up another offer. Avoid mentioning details about the organisation, position or role that you intend to opt for. Also you should refrain from talking about the higher salary or better position you are getting as this nay create heartburns.
Show your gratitude and mention how honoured you feel to be given an opportunity and would definitely be interested in working with this team in future.
Stay connected: Make an effort to call this individual up after a week so that s/he does not feel personally rejected by your response. If the idea of speaking to him makes you uncomfortable, then there are various other ways to keep in touch. You could send a mail, some good articles/s related to your specialized field or even an invite to add him to your professional.
Recommend someone: This is one of the best ways to show your concern towards the employer. When you suggest someone, like a friend, an acquaintance who can replace you and fit the role requirement, it shows your thoughtfulness and inclination to help. Even if the friend doesn’t ultimately take the job, your act of introducing someone is what counts. This small gestures go a long way in building relations. Watch your action and behavior. Ensure that you leave a good impression as you never know when your paths may cross again in the future.
- Originally written by Rashi Dubey and published in Bangalore Mirror.