How you end an interaction can speak volumes about your character. It’s important to ensure the last thing someone remembers about you is positive, even if the outcome wasn’t what they hoped for. This is true in both our personal and professional lives, including with job offers.
We’ve all been there—on either side of the conversation. Whether you’re extending a job offer or the one deciding to decline, the way you handle these moments can leave a lasting impression, especially in an industry as tight-knit and personal as ours.
Job Seekers
Imagine this: A company remembers your name years after you’ve rejected their offer. It’s not because of the rejection itself, but because of how you handled it. Did you negotiate a stronger offer only to turn it down? Did you disappear without a word, leaving them in the lurch? Or, did you communicate your reasons clearly and respectfully? The Golden Rule applies here: Treat others as you would want to be treated. In our industry, you’ll likely run into these people again at events, conferences, in future business dealings, or even around town. Can you look them in the eye knowing you handled yourself with integrity?
When it comes to rejecting a job offer, grace is key. This isn’t just about turning down an opportunity—it’s about preserving a relationship. Before responding, take the time to consider your decision carefully. Once you’re sure, respond promptly with direct and verbal communication.
Note: If you’re working with an executive recruiter, be sure and bring them into your thoughts ASAP. They’ll support you with the decision process and ultimately with the communication plan.
Express gratitude for the offer and the opportunity, state your decision clearly, and keep your tone positive and professional. Leave the door open for future opportunities where applicable.
Employers
On the flip side, when you’re the one making the tough decision, how you reject a candidate can leave just as strong an impression. It’s tempting to take the easy way out by sending a generic email, or worse, ghosting them entirely. However, in an industry built on relationships, this isn’t just poor form—it’s a missed opportunity.
Be direct and verbal. Pick up the phone and have a conversation. It shows respect for the candidate’s time and effort. Follow up in writing if warranted, personalizing the message by addressing the candidate by name and mentioning the specific position. If appropriate, provide constructive feedback, which is best delivered verbally. You don’t need to go into extensive detail about your reasons for declining or choosing another candidate, but you can briefly share some insights if relevant. Express your appreciation for their interest in the role, encourage them to stay in touch, and wish them luck on the rest of their job search. Remember, this is a small industry, and you may very likely cross paths again!
By the way: This can also apply to job seekers who submit their resumes in response to a job posting. At least send them a nice email! Don’t have time to field those replies to your note? Here is an idea: Send the emails from a special account specifically for this purpose.
Example: [email protected]
Trust me when I tell you that people appreciate a nice email acknowledging receipt and letting them know:
A. They’ve been selected for interviews
OR
B. The company has selected other candidates to interview
Whether you’re an employer or a job seeker, these interactions are opportunities to make a positive impression in the long term. Don’t let a mishandled professional separation hinder your next opportunity to make a positive impact on another party. 
