Lesson 3: Rejection

Receiving rejection: If you receive a rejection, respond professionally and graciously, thanking them for the opportunity and expressing your continued interest in future opportunities. Request feedback to help with future applications and interviews. And, most importantly, stay positive. We typically have to hear a lot of “no’s” before we hear the one “yes”. This is normal and a part of the process; keep going after it.

Here’s a sample response to a hiring manager you may use, if you did not receive the offer:

Subject: Appreciation and Feedback Request

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I want to express my sincere gratitude for considering me for the [Position Title] role at [Company Name]. It was a pleasure getting to know your team and learning more about the exciting work you do.

While I am disappointed not to receive an offer this time, I genuinely appreciate the opportunity to interview with [Company Name]. Your team’s professionalism and enthusiasm left a positive impression on me.

If possible, I would greatly value any feedback you can provide regarding my interview process. Constructive insights will help me continue to grow and improve. Additionally, I hope to keep the door open for future opportunities at [Company Name].

Thank you once again for your time and consideration. I wish you and the team continued success, and I hope our paths cross again.

Best regards,

[Your Full Name] [LinkedIn Profile (optional)] [Phone Number]

Rejecting/declining an offer: You may realize through the interview process or from the offer that you no longer want to work for the company or in that specific role. If you’d like to decline the offer, be professional, state some legitimate reasons, and keep the door open for future opportunities.

Here’s a sample of an email declining an offer that you may use:

Subject: Grateful Appreciation and Decision Regarding [Position Title] Offer

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I want to express my sincere gratitude for extending the offer for the [Position Title] role at [Company Name]. It has been a pleasure getting to know your team and learning about the impactful work you do.

After careful consideration, I have decided to pursue a different path at this time [insert appropriate reasons]. I appreciate your understanding and respect for my decision.

I genuinely enjoyed our interactions throughout the interview process, and I am impressed by [Company Name]'s commitment to excellence. I hope our paths cross again in the future, and I remain open to exploring opportunities with [Company Name].

Thank you once again for your time, consideration, and professionalism. I wish you and the team continued success.

Best regards,

[Your Full Name] [LinkedIn Profile (optional)] [Phone Number]

Whether you’re receiving rejection or giving rejection, be professional, show appreciation, and keep the door open for future employment opportunities.