How do I politely decline a job offer without burning a bridge?
Background: I’ve been overwhelmed in my current company/position. Found this position in another company but the position is to help to “build” the supply chain processes for the company. So while I think the company is alright and the people seem fine, I feel the “building” process will require more time and commitment I’m able to provide. I’ve voiced that during interviews and they all said “things would be fine”. MORE BELOW

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Posting as :
works at
You are currently posting as works at

"I really appreciate being considered, and while I believe in the company and world love to help build your vision, I don't think this role is the right one at this stage of my career. I hope we can stay in touch and you'll keep me in mind if something in the realm of <what you're looking for> comes up"

likesmarthelpful

I have been in this same exact position this year. Something along the lines of “Thank you for offering me the position at xxx. It has been a pleasure meeting all of you and learning more about the company and the role. After careful consideration, I’ve decided now is not the best time to leave my current position. Should additional roles come open in the future, please keep me in mind.” Short and sweet.

likehelpful

P1 “After careful consideration, I have decided to pursue positions within other organizations.”

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I usually say thank you but after hearing more during the interview, this position doesn’t sound like it aligns well to my long term goals. I hope that there will be opportunities in the future for me to join your organization.

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Did you not know this when you interviewed or did you just change your mind? Sounds like you’re just overwhelmed overall. Take time off instead of looking for a new company. Almost any new job is going to require more work initially in order to get established and build a good reputation.

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And yes, I did know about it when I interviewed with the hiring manager but I wanted to hear from the leadership what they had to say. They were all “down sizing” the efforts to “bring the processes to life” but any building takes time. Any building takes extra effort.

I don’t think it’s worthy to jump from a company I’ve been for some time and have some stability to another one with potential to be as overwhelming. How do I proceed with that? I need to give them a feedback today. They offered me the job on Friday.

Without any comment on whether you should leave I think the following works fine:

“Thank you for the offer. It is truly hard to reject. However, my personal circumstances have changed and I don’t think I can devote the effort I want to and think the role with you deserves. For the reason, with no small amount of regret at the timing, I feel I must reject your offer. I am deeply regretful of the problems this may cause you.”

likesmarthelpful

Thank you all! The HR has reached out to me through email but the hiring manager has reached out to me directly over the phone (calls/text messages). I think an email should suffice but considering the manager approach, what do you guys think?

I did this lat year by email. This year I just got hired.

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