Last week I faced a situation I had never encountered before; I turned down a job midway through the interview process. After I had two phone interviews (which the company had initiated) I knew in my gut the position was not right for me. Although I know I could have done an amazing job in the role and I aligned with overall company values, these factors were not enough to keep my heart in the process.
First off, the pandemic has completely changed my opinion on remote work. In my next position I am looking to be fully remote or at least close to it. This new role required at least 3 days a week in the office. The commute with traffic would have been at least an hour each way. I’ve learned that I truly value my time outside of work hours, so the in person requirement plus commute unfortunately became deal breakers.
Secondly, following my phone interview with the hiring manager I felt that it would be difficult to work under them. Yes, I only spoke with them on the phone for half an hour, but in that time I gleaned facts about them and how it would be reporting to them. Although the conversation was cordial and professional, it was punctuated by their one word responses. Hiring managers make or break a job for employees. The fact I couldn’t establish a basic conversational rapport with them was telling. At the conclusion of the call I knew working under them would not be a good fit. The commute along with a non-supportive manager made it a no-brainer to halt the process after two phone calls.
After the conclusion of the second interview I knew I no longer wanted to continue my candidacy. The recruiter reached out shortly stating they would like for me to move on to the next round in the interview process. I used her email as a chance to respectfully decline to continue with the process and formally withdraw my candidacy for the position. I only had two phone interviews so I didn’t cite the real reasons why I no longer wished to continue. I merely relayed that the position was not a proper fit and I wished them the best of luck filling the role. I know the recruiter was disappointed as they had reached out to me for the role but letting them know in a timely manner was the right thing.
Despite never having turned down a job offer mid process before, I felt that it was an easier situation to navigate than I had initially anticipated. I didn’t want to waste their time so a timely reply halting the process felt like the best option. A part of me felt bad for turning a role down that I know I could have done, but I know there will be more roles that will be better for me in the future. Yes, now is a great time for those who are looking to move companies and positions, but please don’t just make a move for the sake of it.
Turning down a job offer can be stressful and difficult, but please don’t be hard on yourself or feel bad. Bottom line is if you know a role isn’t right for you then don’t put unnecessary pressure on yourself to take it. Happy job hunting or negotiating!