[Thomas the Rhymer]

Gentlemen,

I need advice on how to refuse employment.

I've never been good at saying no. I either come across as insincere or as a total jackass. So I though I'd ask for some advice. Unlike with girls, I don't think it would be good move professionally to dump a potential employer by text messaging 'let's just be friends'.

I've been offered a job but my gut feeling on this particular job offer is to not go for it.

So I want to politely tell them that I'm declining the offer.

The basic drift of advice sites on the web is to just politely say that you've been offered another job that you've decided to take, and that you're thankful for the offer.

The letter I'm considering sending:

"Thank you for the offer of the position of ....... After careful consideration, I regret that I must decline your offer,
as I have accepted another opportunity that has been offered to me that is more in line with my skill set and long term goals.

Thanks again for taking the time to meet with me and for the generous employment offer."

How does that sound? Anyone have experience with this? Anyone know of examples of great rejection letters, or examples of letters that blew up in one's face?

[tenderman100]

Is it true you have another offer and prefer that? If it is, what you have here is fine.

If it ISN'T true, then NEVER write it. These things have a way of coming back to haunt you.

In other words, do the "dance" but don't lie.

Better to say something along the lines of "Thank you for you generous offer, but I think it is best for your company that I decline. I have thought it over carefully, and it seems to me that, given my skill set, the way I work, and my long term goals, I would not be a good fit for your organization."

In other words, put the blame on YOURSELF.

[chyamor]

Ask for more money and see what they say