How to politely reject an earlier onboard date?

Question

I have signed the job offer previously and the company has agreed on my proposed onboard date. However, the company reached out to me and asked if I can start earlier after a couple of weeks due to tight human capital demand.

Personally I'm not willing to do so as I'm relocating to a new city and have some personal things to do. Should I provide specific and concrete detials to reject starting earlier? Or, is it reasonable if I propose onboarding according to the original schedule without giving specific reasons? Thanks.

Answer 1

I don't see why you wouldn't give the specific details of your situation. You need to take care of your relocation to be 100% ready for the starting date. It's a perfectly good reason. You'd be basically saying that you would start earlier if you could but unfortunately you can't.

Answer 2

Hi there,

You don't need to defend yourself!

Keep it short and sharp. Say you really wish you could, and are generally a team player, but just physically can't due to personal matters - say you would if you could.

That's it!

Answer 3

Hi there,

Q: Should I provide specific and concrete details to reject starting earlier? Or, is it reasonable if I propose onboarding according to the original schedule without giving specific reasons?

I would call HR and explain over the phone you have set a few personal appointments following the original schedule in a different location, so unfortunately that won't be possible. I don’t think there could be any issue if you clarify it in this way over the phone.

All the best for a great start!

Francesco

Answer 4

It sounds more like a question than a demand. I would just respond saying its not feasible “due to timing of relocation”.

Answer 5

Hello!

Totally depends on your style. Both are valid, as long as you are kind and polite.

Cheers,

Clara