How to respond to a job offer without accepting

Make sure that you thank the employer for the offer. You should be respectful and professional. Express your gratitude for being offered this opportunity and let the employer know you are excited to work with them.

• Politely ask for more time to consider the job offer

The best way to handle this situation is to be transparent and honest. Tell the employer that you need more time to consider this offer. You should also give them an expected timeframe for your decision, and don't make it too long of a timeframe. Be clear about when you will get back to them with your ultimate decision.

• Request more information

If there is anything you are uncertain about, ask for further clarification on the issue. Also, if jotted down any notes or questions during your research about the company, now is the appropriate time to address them. It is very important to confirm all of the job details when accepting your job offer. Critical details include:

• Job Duties

• Work schedule

• The salary for the position

• The employee benefits that come with the role

Having all of this information helps to inform your ultimate decision on whether or not to accept the job offer.

• Make any concerns known

If you have any concerns or reservations about the job role or the company itself, then you should make these known. Give the employer the courtesy of trying to answer your concerns.

• Let the employer know you are still interested

You should keep the lines of communication open between you and the employer by indicating that you are still interested in the job offer. Stress that you are taking it under heavy consideration and that you very much appreciate this potential opportunity. Be sure to respond punctually to any communications or questions you receive going forward.