FAQs
What is the best response for denying a request? ›
Be straightforward about the future.
State your reason and then stop talking. Say: “I appreciate your request but I have other priorities and can't take on the extra work.”
How to respond to a rejection email
- Address the recipient by name. At the start of your response letter, address the recipient by name. ...
- Thank them for their time. ...
- Communicate your disappointment. ...
- Express your ongoing interest. ...
- Request feedback. ...
- Close the letter politely. ...
- Proofread your letter.
May 3, 2023
Here's a sample response you could use when following up after being rejected. In addition to thanking the other person for their time and expressing gratitude for the opportunity, you should do two things: State your interest in being considered for future opportunities, and ask for feedback on how you can improve.
How do you thank someone for politely rejecting a request? ›While it's disappointing to see this opportunity go, I want to thank you for getting back to me and letting me know about the decision. I also want to thank you for taking the time to meet with me.
How do you say no in a smart way? ›Example phrases to help you say no
- “May I take a day to get back to you?” ...
- “I can do it for you this time, but I can't do it for you every time. ...
- “It does not [or will not] work for me to ... ” ...
- “I can't, but here's another option for you.” ...
- “It's not good for me now, but let's look ahead in our calendars.” ...
- “Sorry, no.”
Aug 4, 2021
10 different ways to say no
- Sadly, I have something else going on.
- I have another commitment.
- I wish I were able to.
- I'm afraid I can't.
- I don't have the bandwidth for that right now.
- I'm honored you asked me, but I simply can't.
- Thanks for thinking of me. ...
- I'm sorry, I'm not able to fit this in.
Jan 7, 2022
While other applicants likely also received the same rejection email, most will not send a response. By sending a reply to any rejection emails you receive, you'll stand out among the pool of applicants who weren't selected. A polite, gracious response reflects well on you both professionally and personally.
Why is rejection so painful? ›The results showed that the feeling of rejection triggered the same neural circuits that process physical injury and translate it into the experience we call pain. And this is why the human brain does not distinguish between a broken bone and an aching heart.
How do you professionally decline a request? ›“Thank you for approaching me on this matter. I'm glad you feel you can trust me. Unfortunately, I'm not going to be able to XYZ.” (Never give a reason why or why not.) Any “professional” would take the cue and drop it.
How do you decline a request without being rude? ›Key Phrases for Saying No Politely and Professionally
- “I apologize for any inconvenience, but unfortunately, we are unable to accommodate that request.”
- “I understand your need, but I'm afraid that is not possible at the moment.”
- “I regret to inform you that we are currently unable to fulfill that request.”
Feb 25, 2024
How do you deny something without saying no? ›
- It's not a priority for me at this time.
- life is too short to do things you don't love.
- my instincts tell me I'm not suitable for this.
- you should do this yourself, you'd be awesome at it.
- I would prefer another option.
- you're so kind to think of me, but I can't.
- sounds great, but I can't commit.
Feb 21, 2023