How to Decline an Interview: 3 Tips for Declining an Interview

During the job search and application process, a person may decide that they’re no longer interested in a position they previously applied for. Below are some of the common reasons why a person might decide not to continue with the interview process.

1. 1. The employer isn’t the right fit. Occasionally, you may receive an interview for a position that isn’t ideal for you for any number of reasons, from salary to commute. If you already know the position isn’t right for you, then it is not worth taking the interview.
2. 2. You’re already employed. People typically start looking for jobs when they are otherwise employed, which can create scheduling conflicts or internal conflicts. You may be feeling restless, but perhaps the position you applied for isn’t as good as your current job.
3. 3. You’re moving. If you’re physically changing locations and remote work is not offered, you might have to decline a job interview invitation. Similarly, if you thought you were going to be in the area of the job opportunity but are no longer moving there, it would be a good idea to turn down the interview.
4. 4. You don’t align with the company’s goals. If you spent time looking up a prospective employer after applying for a position, you may come across some philosophies or policies you don’t agree with. If you do the research on the company name and come up with enough valid reasons why this job is not for you, you should turn down the interview opportunity.
5. 5. You’ve changed your mind. Everyone changes their mind sometimes. If you already don’t love the idea of this job, declining the interview may be the right decision.

When declining an interview, you want to make sure to be as polite, clear, and discrete as possible. Here are a few things to consider doing when you want to decline an interview for a job you no longer want.

1. 1. Communicate with the hiring manager. If you receive a call or email from a recruiter or hiring manager about sitting down for an interview, your instinct may be to ignore it. Declining the interview, however, is the more courteous thing to do. You never know where future opportunities may pop up, and who will remember your name.
2. 2. Keep the details to a minimum. You don’t have to explain every specific reason as to why you are declining an interview with this company. Be vague about your reasons for turning down the offer, but provide brief updates such as accepting a new job at a different company or moving out of town.
3. 3. Be polite. Keep your tone gracious, polite, and professional to make sure you leave the door open to apply to open positions at the same company later. End your message with “kind regards” or “best regards,” and leave your contact information including phone number at the bottom. If you want to leave a good impression, you can leave referrals of other qualified job candidates who may better fit the bill.

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