How to cancel an offer?

Question

Hi there,

I have an offer and I want/need to reject it. I would write an email to the responsible recruiter and the partner with whom I had the last interview and who informed me about the offer, explaining why I reject the offer. Is that sufficient or should I rather call?

I appreciate any advice on how to best handle the rejection :)

Answer 1

Hello!

I hope it´s since you nailed even a much better offer ;)

If you are clear on your decision, I would 100% call. This is what I have done when I have been in that situation in the past, and I have never regretted it.

Think that, the network is forever... and you never know when your paths woudl cross again.

Hope it helps!

Cheers,

Clara

Answer 2

Hi there,

Sometimes it's really hard to say no, right?

Here are some useful tips:

A phone call is better than just an email. Adding the personal touch is never a weakness.
Don't make them wait for too long for you reply.
You want to be polite and stick to the facts why you reject an offer, not to the judgments.

These steps will help you to keep the doors open and stay in touch with the recruiter/company.

Hope it was helpful and good luck!

GB

Answer 3

Hi,

You can call or e-mail, at the end of the day it will not be a big difference. the only thing - if it is part of on-campus recruiting - make sure you inform the school first. Very often they have agreements with companies that students can't cancel offers

Best

Answer 4

Hi there,

I would recommend a call. It leaves the bridge unburned and ensure you're exiting as gracefully as possible.

If you can't reach them or any other reason is preventing you from calling, an email is perfectly fine! Thank them kindly, say you were very excited about the company and genuinely interested, but that x event has forced your hand.

Answer 5

Hey, if you have 100% made up your mind, I suggest setup a call with HR and do it over phone. Thank them first for giving you the offer and then give your reason. Keep emotions out, be polite and to the point. Avoid any blame game (e.g you paid me way less money..) and part on good terms. You never know how future turns out and how people cross paths.

If you had a good rapport with the Partner who interviewed you, setup a call with him them as well. Otherwise send an email to the Partner after you have spoken to HR. Thank him & explain you enjoyed the interview process, knowing the firms etc and explain your reasons. Offer to keep in touch for future opportunities.

Answer 6

Hi,

I personally think the phone call is by far the best option.

Congrats on your achievement!

Best,

Antonello

Answer 7

Hi,

I would first try to setup a call.

However, make sure you have a good reason that is logical and acceptable to maintain a good relationship. In current day and age the world is so small, you never know who you would cross path again in the future.

If it is difficult to setup the call, than as a last option you can write a very clear email ang not too long.

Answer 8

Hi there,

I agree with the other comments, a call to HR is definitely better. You will sound more professional, be able to explain your reasons more easily and leave a better overall impression.

Hope this helps,

Francesco