Having job interviews scheduled is a sign that things are going well, but having several at the same time or having an interview at a company you don't want to work for can be an incentive to turn one down. Before turning down a job interview, it's important to make sure that's what you really want. If you are sure of your decision, continue reading this article to learn how to reject a job interview.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Deciding whether or not to reject the interview
Step 1. Identify the reasons
If you're considering turning down a job interview, you probably have one or more factors influencing the decision. The wisest thing is to reflect on these reasons and think about whether you really want to not attend. Some of the factors that most influence this type of decision:
- Have a job offer from another company;
- Uncertainties about work, salary and business management;
- Feeling that you are not the right person for the job;
- Hearing negative things about the work environment;
- Having worked at the same company before and not interested in returning.
Step 2. Reflect on the work environment and other important factors
If you are unsure whether to accept the interview or not, put all the relevant factors in the balance. One way to decide if the job is a good opportunity for you is to think through all the pros and cons.
- To weigh the pros and cons, list all the positives in one column and the negatives in another. Notice if the positives outweigh the negatives. Otherwise, perhaps the best thing really is to reject the interview.
- Keep in mind that you can negotiate salary, hours and other conditions that are not fully aligned with your needs.
Step 3. Trust your intuition
After all this thinking, if you still feel the job isn't for you, cancel the interview. The possibility that your instincts about the company, the manager, or the job are correct is reason enough not to go ahead with the process. The only exception is if you're scared of rejection or nervous that it's a job interview. In either of these two scenarios, you need to get past the fears and complete the process.
Part 2 of 2: Rejecting an Interview
Step 1. Use the most appropriate communication method
If the company has contacted you by email, please respond by email. If it was by phone, call back. Do not send fax or letter unless you have been contacted through these means.
Step 2. Write what you want to say
Whatever the means of contact - email or telephone - it is important to write down the words you want to say. Don't forget to include some important points:
- A greeting: “Dear ____”;
- A thank you message: “Thank you for the opportunity to learn more about the role of _______ in your company”;
- A brief explanation of the reasons why he chose not to attend the interview: “Unfortunately, at this point, I have to reject the interview because I accepted a position at another company”. Be careful not to say anything that might sound rude or impolite. If you can't think of a kind way to justify the refusal, don't;
- A confirmation of receipt of the message, such as “I ask you to kindly confirm receipt of this message”;
- A brief conclusion such as "Thank you for your time and consideration."
Step 3. Reject the interview as soon as possible
Although you are not interested in the position, there are plenty of other people looking forward to it. Get back to the recruiter as soon as possible so he can schedule an interview with another candidate.