Decline Interview Letter

It is common practice to send resumes to every company that matches your job search criteria. When this happens, it is very likely you will get a request to interview from an employer after accepting a position from another employer. Alternatively, you may change your mind about working for a certain company. Either way, the professional thing to do is to send a carefully worded letter declining the interview opportunity.

Format & Content:

The decline interview letter format is designed to be short and to the point. The tone should be polite and friendly. You should send this letter as soon as possible after receiving an interview request you cannot grant. Refrain from making any negative comments, as you may want to apply to the company again at some point in the future. It is okay to say you have already accepted another job offer; it is not okay to add that you like another company better. Address the letter to the same person that sent you the request to interview letter.

Sample:

In this decline interview letter sample, the candidate is writing to turn down an offer to interview. It is obvious by the candidate’s tone that she regrets the lost interview opportunity. However, by writing the letter, the candidate displays professionalism, trustworthiness and integrity. The candidate’s commitment to honoring her word will likely be remembered by the interviewer she is turning down. Although her career path is taking her another way for now, she may reap the reward of her honesty and integrity with this employer at some time in the future.

Dear Mr. Hoffman,

Thank you for considering me for the position of project manager at ATC Group. I had the opportunity to research ATC Group prior to sending you my resume. I have read many positive things about your company and I am especially impressed with the strides ATC Group has made in the international marketplace over last two years.

It is with some regret that I must decline your offer for an interview. This week, I accepted a position with another organization. Although I was looking forward to meeting you, I feel l must honor the commitment I made to my new employer. I believe it would be unfair to take up your valuable time when I know I will not be able to accept a position if offered.

I have already declined the job interview opportunity through your corporate website, as directed in your interview request letter. Please consider this letter as a personal thank you. I appreciate your consideration.

I am positive you will find the right candidate to fill this position. I intend to keep your contact information, and hopefully, I will have the chance to meet you at some point in the future. I wish you all the best in your search efforts.

Sincerely,

Talia Green