How to decline a job offer

What is the best way to decline a job offer?

Response from Carl: How to decline a job offer is probably preceded by the question "why would you decline a job offer?" People decline job offers for a variety of reasons ie. the offer wasn't good enough, a change of heart, a better job came along, etc.

As far as how to decline a job offer, I guess there are two schools of thought:

1. You're ok with delivering the news to the employer you're about to spurn so you pick up the phone and let them know you aren't taking the job.

2. You'd rather avoid speaking with the person so you send them an email and announce you're turning the job down. Alternatively you call them at a time you figure they won't be in the office (ie. 10pm at night) and leave them a voice message!

It also depends on the specific situation. Let's say you are interested in the job but just can't accept the job as it stands. Perhaps there is something missing from the offer and you decide to turn the job down. Calling the person on the phone directly to reject the offer and politely thank them for the offer and stating your reason(s) for declining the offer might cause them to give you what you're asking for and save the day especially if they don't want to start the search process again and admire you for picking up the phone and addressing them directly.

Alternatively, if you simply don't want the job anymore and are ready to move on, perhaps an email is the way to go.

Either way, as usual you want to be polite and try to avoid burning any bridges despite the specific situation you're facing.

Carl