How to reject offers (not reneging) politely and professionally?

I have a few offers, and it's a great position to be in. That being said, I now need to tell many banks that I will not be signing and that I've selected a different summer analyst program. It's been surprisingly difficult for me and I wanted any advice.

For some, I had indicated strong interest (and was fairly genuine about it), and others have congratulated me and pushed me to sign. Others have been aggressive, trying to get my verbal acceptance right away when they called. Some have political ties to me (helped me get the job but I'm not taking it). How do I navigate this? Do I tell the places where I will be going, or just leave it vague?

I plan on just sending some thoughtful emails, but maybe I should call as well (at least for the MDs who went out of their way to congratulate me)? Especially for the higher ups (MDs) that have reached out and put pressure on me to sign, I want to not burn any bridges since the street is small.

 

If you're really close with a personthat helped push you through, it's probably best to give them a call. I recently had to do this, and while it wasn't fun, the guy definitely understood. I'd imagine most people go through some form of this, so they'll probably understand.

If you're sending an email, just be polite and be sure to thank them for the opportunity. I usually don't tell them where I accepted unless they ask in a follow up email.

 
Best Response
B2Banker:

I would definitely call the places where you have connections/people going to bat for you. Places where you just did resume drop and don't have any kind of connection with, a polite email will suffice to whoever is coordinating the recruiting process.

I agree with the idea to call. It will be much more difficult, but much more professional. Prepare for someone to not handle it correctly, but in all likelihood, they will be very professional and understand. Most of the people that get aggressive are simply trying to close out the recruiting and hiring process, and come off as pushy. I've dealt with this type of behavior during my last job search, and they usually understood when I came back with a "no thanks". I would still make sure that you take the SA offer that you want to take FIRST, then immediately call and let the others know that you aren't taking it. That way you don't run into any issues with taking the position you want. Also, anyone that you are particularly close to in the process might deserve a quick handwritten thank you note.
"Decide what to be and go be it." - The Avett Brothers
 

Congratulations on the multitude of offers. No offense, but while you are definitely a competitive candidate, you are just a number. No bank will get pissed because you decline their offer. Just send HR a simple "Thank you for the opportunity, but I have decided to accept another employment offer" type email. If someone pushed your resume, send them a personal email. Do not call out of the blue. That is just annoying. Good luck. You definitely earned it.

 
Sil:

Congratulations on the multitude of offers. No offense, but while you are definitely a competitive candidate, you are just a number. No bank will get pissed because you decline their offer. Just send HR a simple "Thank you for the opportunity, but I have decided to accept another employment offer" type email. If someone pushed your resume, send them a personal email. Do not call out of the blue. That is just annoying. Good luck. You definitely earned it.

I don't know why this got ms. I find this to be pretty accurate. You should only be calling people if they sacrificed an arm/leg for you and you have a pretty tight connection. Otherwise it's just a little annoying.

 
nkhanlegend:
Sil:

Congratulations on the multitude of offers. No offense, but while you are definitely a competitive candidate, you are just a number. No bank will get pissed because you decline their offer. Just send HR a simple "Thank you for the opportunity, but I have decided to accept another employment offer" type email. If someone pushed your resume, send them a personal email. Do not call out of the blue. That is just annoying. Good luck. You definitely earned it.

I don't know why this got ms. I find this to be pretty accurate. You should only be calling people if they sacrificed an arm/leg for you and you have a pretty tight connection. Otherwise it's just a little annoying.

I made a trollish post in another thread, which must have pissed someone off enough to find other posts of mine to throw MS at rolls eyes

 

Well done on nailing these offers. First thing you should do is accept your preferred offer.

I think it's always a good idea to call. You have been through a few rounds of interviews, and an email brings an abrupt end to that process. You will be able to control and convey the tone better on the phone. If they ask where you are accepting an offer, no harm in being open about it since you did not accept this firm's offer in the first place (Would not recommend this if you are reneging.)

Recently, I had to turn down a final round interview at a firm where I had several connections, and people typically understand; you want to make best decision for your career.

"So who lost the hundy?"
 

First, congratulations on lining up a number of offers.

Second, I believe the advice on calling those who put forth effort to get you the offers is wise. When speaking with some and emailing others, just be honest. They'll respect that.

Third, make sure no red tape or other snags prevent your desired offer from becoming set in stone. If the offer windows permit, wait until your offer is completely finalized before declining others.

Again, congrats and good luck.

 

They'll likely have backup candidates that they are slow rolling while they wait on your decision. I have no hard feelings towards people who want to go elsewhere, but I'd rather get a quick no so I can extend an offer to the next person in line instead of waiting around for a week and losing that person to another bank as well.

As others said, if you have a close personal connection, call them first, thank them for all their help but explain that you feel you were a better fit with XYZ bank and group and have decided to accept that offer. Then just email the recruiting coordinator, thank them for all their help and consideration, and politely explain that you've decided to go to XYZ bank instead.

Congrats on the multiple offers, it's a good position to be in. Be professional/polite and they'll be fine with it.

 

Accept and sign your top offer then delicately decline your other offers. Do not burn any bridges. You never know you may need a job for FT or make work with those guys one day.

Robert Clayton Dean: What is happening? Brill: I blew up the building. Robert Clayton Dean: Why? Brill: Because you made a phone call.
 

Like others have said, if you had someone close pushing for you - you must call them to politely thank them for the opportunity, but decided to go with another firm because of reason (must be delicate of the reason too, can't be too truthful).

If its something you don't have close ties with, just call them and say thanks for opportunity but you felt you fitted in with other's culture better.

 

By phone first, and then by email/letter. Don't lie about taking another position. Your paths will almost certainly cross again, so you are correct in wanting to keep it professional. The tricky part is the "why" you're declining. You don't initially have to give a reason for declining. Just graciously thank them and decline the offer. They'll certainly ask why.

You might try saying that the interview process allowed you to learn more about the boutique just as they learned more about you, and you find yourself feeling like you'd be a better fit at other firms where you are interviewing. If they ask why, you can suggest that it's a combination of factors ranging from product focus, opportunities for analysts, and fit.

You don't want to nor should you feel that you need to go into great detail. Even if they probe, don't feel like you need to talk about the other places you're interviewing. Tell them it's not really relevant as you feel comfortable with your decision and don't want to get into an issue-by-issue debate with them. Be gracious throughout and you'll be fine. In this market they'll find someone else they like to fill the slot.

How to Decline an Offer - http://bit.ly/3x51Pl

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This is fairly simple and you're over-thinking it. If you have been corresponding via email, then just send an email "Thank you very much for this opportunity...However, this internship is not the right fit for me...thanks for your time. Best regards,..."

If you have been convsersing by phone then just say the same thing politely by phone. Firms don't give a crap if an intern rejects them, they can always find interns.

 

Call the MD, then call HR.

Be a man and don't take the pussy route of emailing....lets put it this way, do you ever want to get dumped by email?

"Greed, in all of its forms; greed for life, for money, for love, for knowledge has marked the upward surge of mankind. And greed, you mark my words, will not only save Teldar Paper, but that other malfunctioning corporation called the USA."
 

I am highly in favor of calling as well. It helps take the sting out.

But, if you really need to write a letter, you can structure it this way:


Dear Mr.Smith,

It was really wonderful to meet you and learn about The Company this weekend. I am a little hesitant with what I am about to tell you. I'm happy that you have favorably considered my interest in The Company but I am sad that I am withdrawing my application.

I think very highly of The Company and it's one of the most respected companies to work for. I hope that in being honest with you about the change in my situation, and the resulting withdrawal of my application, that I am not disallowed to continue considering The Company as a top opportunity in the future.

Thank you again for considering me. I apologize for any difficulty my withdrawal may have caused. Hopefully by being honest with you as early as I could, I have minimized any inconvenience. I hope I can stay in touch.

Best, Erin


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I had the same issue - as long as you rejected nicely, left a door open for future communication, and didn't talk sh*t, you are fine.

“The only thing history teaches us, a wise man once said, is that history doesn’t teach us anything.”
 

This is a very complicated ritual, not just anybody can pull it off: Start by sending a gift basket (any kind) to each and every person who has interviewed you at that firm. Don't leave anyone out, even a 1st year analyst, because that would fuck it all up. Then call up each one and engage them in a lengthy conversation; try to steer it toward their feelings about the possibility of you interviewing with another firm on the Street besides theirs. Here's where you have to use your judgment - if he/she doesn't seem to mind if you interview elsewhere, then call them back in 3 weeks and tell them that you're sorry, but you're taking another offer. If they sound like the jealous type, you're going to have to show up in person. Go to the office in your best suit and track down all of the guys who came off as the jealous type... then ask them if they have a few minutse to sit down and talk. Break the news gently, and if it gets violent just walk away and keep it professional. Don't fight back if they get physical.

_______________________________________ http://www.drmarkklein.blogspot.com/
 

Mark. Are you serious? All that to tell someone your not going to take their job? Hell, I would just call and say sorry I have already accepted a position somewhere else. Leave it at that.

Gift baskets? Are you serious?

 

From a bank's perspective, we like to know why someone is choosing a competitor. Obviously we think the person is making a mistake, after-all, we seem to think we do a pretty good job. I'd say just give the truth unless it is something nasty like -the MDs all seemed like assholes- or anything demeaning. If location was a factor, just say it. To be completely honest, you will be forgotten rather quickly. Heck, I've already forgotten the names of a number of people I interviewed who signed on for next year!!

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models_and_bottles:

"Thank you for interviewing me. While your firm's credentials were very impressive, due to the highly competitive market we will not be moving forward with the offer process. I wish you success in your future recruiting efforts."

 

Dear bank,

Thanks, but no thanks.

-Signed, your name-

"We are lawyers! We sue people! Occasionally, we get aggressive and garnish wages, but WE DO NOT ABDUCT!" -Boston Legal-

"We are lawyers! We sue people! Occasionally, we get aggressive and garnish wages, but WE DO NOT ABDUCT!" -Boston Legal-
 

I would agree with host above posts. keep in polite and thank them for the opportunity. But, personally, I would call them and felt obligated to thank them personally or whatever. It goes a long way and will definitely help promote a better relationship with that company down the line.

Hugo
 
oldmansacks:
lol rejection template.

To OP: ask and you shall receive. This is something that I actually use.

Dear Mr. (John Doe),

I am really impressed with the people that I interviewed with and thank you for giving me the opportunity to work at (insert subject company name). Recently, I have accepted an offer for a position I got through my (insert contact, friend, coworker, mentor); therefore, I would no longer be able to work at (insert subject company name).

I look forward to keeping in touch as I continue to learn more about the industry. Once again, thank for your time and for your consideration.

Warmest regards, First Name Last Name

"I am the hero of the story. I don't need to be saved."
 

Jeezus kid, think for yourself! Just write a bloody email, WSO isn't going to hold your hand through every email you ever write.

"After you work on Wall Street it’s a choice, would you rather work at McDonalds or on the sell-side? I would choose McDonalds over the sell-side.” - David Tepper
 

Just be polite and explain that you have found something else. Just make sure you don't slam behind you, as you never know if you will be applying there again.

"It's outrageous, egregious, preposterous. "
 

"Thanks for the offer, I really enjoyed meeting everyone and hearing about the firm, but I've decided to go a different direction that I feel is the best fit for me right now. Thanks again, would like to stay in touch, etc...."

Less is more, so try not to go rambling on explaining your whole decision process - keep it simple and to the point. They have heard "no" before so keep that in mind. While this is a big deal for you, they likely interview dozens (if not hundreds) of kids year in and year out.

I've had to turn down a handful of offers, and after saying the above it is surprisingly painless. Only with one full-time offer did they ask me any follow up questions about my decision. The rest said congrats, maybe asked which firm I chose, and that was that. Congrats on getting a few offers.

 

I would call the MD and HR representative and reject the offer in person. That firm obviously valued you as an individual and has confidence in your abilities - the least you can do is to tell them thanks (and apologize) like a professional. E-mail is much too impersonal and somewhat rude regarding a sensitive issue like this.

 

The interview process was unorganized and it felt like they were in a rush to just pick someone for the position. They skipped the phone interview with me which I thought was odd. A lot of poor communication coming from the firm, like the wrong time for the interview, or who i was and wasn't going to meet with. It wasn't a smooth process.

And no written offer...

I was only interested in taking the interview for practice. The actual position doesn't line up with my career goals. It's not really a step forward in my career.

 
Dubsfan7:
I mean I get where people are coming from by saying "man up and call" but when banks reject you often times you don't even get a personalized response, its usually just a form letter. Not very nice or personable by them...

"Not very nice or personable of them" - is exactly what you're interviewer will think if you wuss out and email.

 

Calling seems pointless in general, but definitely pointless since they are somewhat foreign and things are easily misconstrued and stuff then. So definitely not for the situation at hand, but maybe other times I would consider. I would definitely consider if I hadn't accepted and thought I might negotiate some or something.

And I figured asking couldn't hurt, to the guy who wanted to know if I really needed help. No, I didn't, but you can ask and see others' experiences at the same time, as it once again can't really hurt.

 

Call, no reasons, be vague.

"You stop being an asshole when it sucks to be you." -IlliniProgrammer "Your grammar made me wish I'd been aborted." -happypantsmcgee
 

I don't think those details are necessarily important as the general question is: does applying for, interviewing for, being offered, and then turning down a promotion look bad enough to limit future growth with the company?

FWIW, the new position is in the Cash Management group and is considered a dead end as this group works on a more broad level than the other groups at our location and would not provide the property/deal level experience needed to move to better position in another group. If I take the position my options would be to try and advance within Cash Management, make a lateral move, or try and get a supervisor position in my current group (assuming one ever opens up).

I know someone here has been in this position or has seen this happen.

 

it definitely won't be a big positive, but it will probably just piss off the people in the group that wanted you and maybe some HR people....so down the road if there is another position open in another group, they may be a bit more reluctant to give you the offer, but I don't see it as being a huge deal if you dont want to go into that group.

You can say you have done more research and feel that the group you are currently in actually is a better fit. Issue is you'll probably have to lay low for a bit, but this is just basic office politics. If the group really is THAT bad, then I'd probably pass and wait it out. If there isn't too much interaction between your current group and the one you applied to, it should not be a HUGE deal, but you are the closest one to the situation, so us guessing about your office politics is a bit tough. If the senior guys say it is a big No No to turn down an internal promotion to another group, then I'd listen to them.

Either way, good luck.

 

It might be a problem within the bank, but who says you can't take this new position and then If you end up being pigeonholed, just going to another bank. This isn't a scarlet letter.

Take the promotion and see what happens.

 

I would go with the advice of the senior bankers at your firm who would know far better than anybody on this forum what you should do in this situation at your bank:

"They said that if I get the offer however I should accept as applying for and turning down a promotion looks terrible and will keep me from getting promoted in the future. They said the best bet is to work in this position for 9-12 months and then make a lateral move into another group."

Make the higher salary for the next year then lateral out when a better opportunity presents itself.

 
PSH2:
I would go with the advice of the senior bankers at your firm who would know far better than anybody on this forum what you should do in this situation at your bank:

"They said that if I get the offer however I should accept as applying for and turning down a promotion looks terrible and will keep me from getting promoted in the future. They said the best bet is to work in this position for 9-12 months and then make a lateral move into another group."

Make the higher salary for the next year then lateral out when a better opportunity presents itself.

Yeah seriously, why is he asking us? Reassurance? Well here it is. I can't imagine anyone in their right mind disagreeing with the advice of the higher ups at the very bank you work for, lol.

 

I would call the person who extended the offer to you and then email HR (since I'm assuming that even if a banker gave you the news, HR had some communication with you regarding offer terms, etc) just to take the time and let them know your decision. Additionally, I would consider reaching out to any of your contacts who really pushed for you and/or knew you received an offer - you don't want them to think that you had them make a big push only to blow off the opportunity. Essentially, just cover your bases, let everyone quickly know your decision, and briefly why you went that way - thank them again and sign off - this should help you to not burn any bridges. Beyond that, accept the other offer and good luck.

 

"Hey John, it's Aphamos from XYZ University. I'm calling to let you know that I have to decline the offer to work as an intern this summer at ABC Corp for D,E,F reasons. I look forward to any opportunities that may arise at ABC in the future."

MM IB -> Corporate Development -> Strategic Finance
 

I actually had to turn down my offer from the sophomore internship I did at a BB last summer as well. I did the following: 1)Called my HR contact 2)Explained to them the difficulty I was having with making the decision because I enjoyed the experience 3)Mention broadly why I was exploring the opportunity. When they ask where I am going, I just say "I'd prefer to keep that to myself at the given time," just because I personally think it is my own business.

 

You could always tell them no by taking a page out of George Constanza's book from when he was trying to get fired from the Yankee's:

 While driving around in circles in the parking lot with world series trophy dragging at the end of his car attached by a rope and speaking out of a bull horn:

"Attention Steinbrenner and front-office morons! Your triumphs mean nothing. You all stink. You can sit on it, and rotate! This is George Costanza. I fear no reprisal. Extension five-one-seven-oh."

You're born, you take shit. You get out in the world, you take more shit. You climb a little higher, you take less shit. Till one day you're up in the rarefied atmosphere and you've forgotten what shit even looks like. Welcome to the layer cake, son.
 

The Seinfeld reference was the fact that Jerry has guidelines to how many dates you can go on before you have to do the face-to-face breakup or the over the phone breakup.

The paragraph stated that I had to stay at the firm for at least 3 years and if I left for another securities firm or bank then I had to give them back all of the remuneration they paid me plus a exorbitant amount of money (think $150k-$250k) for each of the 3 years left. So if I left after a couple months I would have to pay them ~$600k. It was obviously more concretely stated than this in the contract but this is basically what it mapped out.

Mind you, this is for an analyst position. I thought MD's and CEO's only get non-compete clauses in their contracts?

 

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People like Coldplay and voted for the Nazis, you can't trust people Jeremy
 

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