How to Withdraw from Consideration for a Job

 

Alison Doyle

 

Did you decide that you don’t want the job you just interviewed for? What is the best way to tell the employer you have changed your mind? There are many reasons to withdraw from consideration for a position. You might realize that the job is not a good fit in terms of your skills, interests, lifestyle, or income expectations.

 

In addition, you may have been offered another position that is more attractive, or possibly you have suddenly been promoted by your current employer.

 

Sometimes intervening life or health changes make a job transition less appealing after you have begun the application process. If any of these situations apply, it is both courteous and professional to submit your withdrawal from consideration to the employer as soon as possible.

 

When to Withdraw Your Application

 

There is no need to withdraw from consideration prior to being selected for an interview. However, once an interview has been scheduled or completed, you should inform the employer if you no longer have an interest in the position and don’t plan to proceed with the process.

 

How to Withdraw with an Email

 

You can send an email or letter expressing appreciation for the employer’s time and consideration, with the option to include a reason such as how the position wasn’t a good fit.

 

If you are considering withdrawing from consideration because the specific job you were interviewed for wasn’t a great match for your skills, by all means, explain this, tactfully, to the employer.

 

Also, ask that they take you into consideration should a more appropriate position open with their organization.

 

Employers may redirect outstanding candidates to a different position from the one they initially applied to if they are impressed with the person’s background.

 

How to Withdraw with a Phone Call

 

If you have established a solid rapport with the hiring manager or Human Resources representative throughout the application process, it is more professional (and considerate) to withdraw from consideration with a phone call.

 

If possible, speak directly with the hiring manager rather than leaving a voicemail or message. This discussion could lead to referrals for other jobs or even restructuring of a more appropriate position.

 

Keep it Positive

 

No matter how you withdraw from consideration, remember to remain professional and positive. Do not go into detail about why you do not like the company, your potential boss, etc. Instead, emphasize how grateful you are for the opportunity to apply for a position at the company, and for their time and consideration thus far.

 

A future job opening at the company might be a better fit for you, so you should seek to remain in the hiring manager’s good graces. Hiring managers also often maintain a network with other businesses. If they are impressed by a candidate but for some reason they don’t hire them, they may proactively alert the candidate to interesting job openings with other employers.