This site uses cookie, to continue browsing this site means you agree to our cookie policy Find out more here. Use Latest Chrome version for the best experience.
For many people, receiving a job offer is an incredibly exciting moment, especially when the offer comes from a well-known company with an array of tempting benefits.
However, there are times when people need to turn down a job offer they’ve received. Of course, they have their own reasons.
It could be because the salary does not meet their expectations (based on their experience, skills, or financial needs), the role is not in line with their career goals, or perhaps due to the company’s work environment or culture.
Regardless of the reason, declining a job offer is a common and acceptable practice in professional life. After sending a job offer letter, the company typically give the candidates around 1-3 days to provide a final decision, whether to accept or decline it.
So, if you feel that the offer you receive is not the right fit, it’s best to decline it properly and professionally. Here are a few ways to politely decline a job offer.
See also: Join Astra Group’s SERA: Exciting Careers Open This June 2025
If you are determined to decline the job offer, reply to the offer letter as soon as possible; don’t leave it unanswered for too long. Ideally, it’s best to reply to the email on the same day so that the company can move forward with other candidates.
This prompt response demonstrates your professionalism and gratitude for the offer and opportunity extended by the company.
When replying to a job offer email, make sure you change the subject of the email to a sentence that reflects your decision. For example: Declining Sales Engineer Offering Letter at Eagle Corporation.
Don’t forget to express your gratitude in the body of the email for the offer and opportunity given to you by the company. For example: Thank you for offering me the position of Customer Service with your company.
When declining a job offer via email, be sure to mention what you appreciate about the company. It’s not only a thoughtful way to express your gratitude, but also a way to show your respect for the opportunity, even if you decide to decline it.
See also: How to Be a Successful Salesperson: The Beginner’s Guide
When a company extends a job offer, they naturally expect you to accept it. That’s why it’s important to remain professional when replying to a job offer email. Avoid using informal words, overly casual tone, or jokes in your response.
Whatever your reason for declining the offer, it’s best to mention it, though you don’t need to go into too much detail. You can simply say that you have accepted another offer from a different company or that the offer does not quite meet your expectations.
For example: I am afraid I must decline the position, because I have accepted a position with another company.
The best way to decline a job offer is to get straight to the point. Avoid writing a long-winded message, even when expressing gratitude and highlighting aspects you appreciate about the company.
Never let the company read such a long letter just to be declined in the end. Make sure you write it in a formal and polite way.
The professional world is small, especially within specific sectors or industries. So, don’t miss the chance to leave a good impression. Some people even see a job offer decline as an opportunity to build professional connections.
See also: How to Answer “Why Did You Apply for This Job?”
You can insert polite filler to maintain a professional tone in your communication with the company. For example: It’s been a pleasure getting to know you, and I hope that we cross paths in the future.
You would not want to leave a bad impression due to a careless or unprofessional message. So, before hitting send, review your draft carefully. Make sure there are no typos or inappropriate phrasing.
Those are some ways to decline a job offer politely and professionally. Before submitting a job application, make sure that the company you are applying to has a positive work culture and clear career prospects. Choose a company with a good reputation and credibility in its field, such as PT Serasi Autoraya, or SERA.
SERA was founded on 22 March 1990 and has become the leader in Indonesia’s logistics and transportation industry. This Astra Group’s company regularly welcomes new members to fill various positions.
SERA continues to provide opportunities for individuals qualified for positions at the company and its subsidiaries.