How to decline a job offer if you change your mind after accepting the role

If you change your mind about accepting a job offer, keep the advice of these recruiters in mind before making the call.

CAREERS’ panel of expert recruiters answers a reader’s question each week. Have a question? Email [e-mail]

I’ve accepted a job offer but I’ve since changed my mind. Can I now decline it, and if so, how long do I have to do this?

Megan Nicholson

General manager

Entree Recruitment

Yes, you can decline but the consequences of this will depend on if you have signed a contract or if you have verbally accepted a role. If you have verbally accepted a role but haven’t signed a contract you can just let the employer know that you have now changed your mind, it is best to call them verbally and let them know. If you have signed a contract but haven’t started yet you may be obliged to still start and work out your notice period, especially if it is the day before. It is always best to give as much notice as possible in both scenarios.

Megan Nicholson says it is best to call employers to verbally advise them of your change in heart.

Andrew Sullivan

Managing director,

Sullivan Consulting

The short answer is yes, you can decline it. There usually isn’t anything that can stop you or prohibits you from quitting right after accepting a job offer, even after contracts are signed. However, I would advise you to not make a habit out of it, as it can create complications and potentially burn bridges with your employer. This is important to consider as the business world in Adelaide is small and word travels fast, so other employers may find out if you have a reputation of doing this.

Andrew Sullivan says to be wary of burning bridges.

Alexandra Rosser

Head of Organisational Psychology Consulting,

Stillwell Management Consultants

Yes, you can, but before you do, ensure that you are not experiencing cold feet and that you have genuinely identified that the role is not for you. If the issue is that you have uncertainties about fit or expectations, it may be that what you need is more information or clarification about the role. If, through careful reflection, you have definitely determined that you want to decline the offer, you should firstly check the contract (assuming you have signed one) to see if there are any provisions relating to this situation. You should then notify the employer or recruiter as soon as possible so that they may quickly commence looking for someone else for their role. In communicating your choice, you should explain your reasons in a polite and respectful manner, offer any constructive feedback which may be useful in their subsequent recruitment efforts and thank them for their offer and interest in you.

Alexandra Rosser says jobseekers may just have cold feet, so should consider their position carefully.

Lisa Morris

Director,

Hays

Yes, you can decline a formal job offer if you have verbally accepted it but are yet to sign a contract. In this case, let your recruiter and hiring manager know as soon as possible that you have changed your mind so they can find your replacement. Thank them for the offer, apologise, then explain in positive terms why you can no longer accept the role. If you have signed a contract, you may still be able to decline the job. Review the terms of your contract to determine if there are any stipulations, or consequences, if you change your mind. For instance, you may be required to give a specified number of days’ notice or there may be a certain window of time during which you can decline the accepted job. Depending on the contract, you may want to seek legal advice.

Lisa Morris advises to check the terms of any contract signed to determine if there will be consequences.

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Originally published as How to decline a job offer if you change your mind after accepting the role