How to reject an interview

Question

Zippia Team · Accepted Answer

It is crucial that you follow up and not just wait for a job offer that you know you are going to decline in order to reject an interview. You do not want to burn professional bridges. You don't know if you will be interested in the role in the future or perhaps a different position at the same company.

You also want to grow your professional network, and completely ignoring a job offer won't help in that regard, as it reflects poorly on you. Here is how to reject an interview:

Send an email or communication promptly

It is important to reject the interview in a timely manner but do not do it immediately after the interview. It is courteous to wait at least 24 hours; plus this way, you give yourself enough time to think it over and make the right decision.

Be polite and courteous

No matter your reasoning for rejecting the interview, it is important to be polite and courteous in your email. Even if there were a myriad of problems with the interview, the position, or the company, you should always be respectful and thank the interviewer for their time and consideration.

Don't go into too much detail about why you are rejecting the interview

You do not need to get into too much detail as to why you are rejecting the interview in the email. You can give a practical explanation if there is one like you got a different job offer that was more appealing. Or you can just say something to the effect that you don't think the role is right for you. Whatever your reasoning is, keep it brief.

Recommend someone you think would be a good fit, if possible

Lastly, another good option to include in your rejection email is the recommendation of another person. Of course, you should check with the person you are recommending first, but if you can do this, it will leave a good impression on the interviewer and the company you are rejecting.