Introduction
When managing a company’s recruitment process, communication is key.
Providing candidates feedback, even in the form of rejection, is a sign of respect and professionalism.
Rejection letters are a necessary part of this process, and crafting them with care can ensure that the candidate retains a positive view of your company.
In this post, we will provide 20 examples of interview rejection letter templates that you can use or adapt to fit your company’s tone and culture.
Interview Rejection Letter Template Examples
1. Standard Polite Rejection
“Dear [Candidate’s Name],
Thank you for your interest in the [specific role]. After careful consideration, we have decided to move forward with another candidate. We appreciate your time and wish you the best in your job search.
Sincerely,
[Your Company Name]”
2. Appreciation for Effort
“Dear [Candidate’s Name],
We genuinely appreciate the time and effort you dedicated to the interview process. Regrettably, we’ve chosen another applicant for the position. Best of luck in your future endeavors.
Warm regards,
[Your Company Name]”
3. Mentioning a Competitive Process
“Dear [Candidate’s Name],
Given the competitive nature of this hiring process, making a decision was challenging. We’ve opted for another candidate, but thank you for your interest in joining our team.
Best wishes,
[Your Company Name]”
4. Future Consideration
“Dear [Candidate’s Name],
While we’ve selected another candidate for the current role, we were impressed by your background. We’d like to keep your details on file for potential future opportunities.
Warmly,
[Your Company Name]”
5. Constructive Feedback Offer
“Dear [Candidate’s Name],
We’ve decided to proceed with another candidate for the [specific role]. If you’re open to feedback, we’re willing to provide insights from the interview that might help in your job search.
Kind regards,
[Your Company Name]”
6. High Caliber of Applicants
“Dear [Candidate’s Name],
The caliber of applicants for this position was outstanding, which made our decision extremely difficult. Unfortunately, we’ve chosen another candidate. We genuinely appreciate your desire to be a part of our team.
Best,
[Your Company Name]”
7. Focusing on Skill Set
“Dear [Candidate’s Name],
After reviewing all candidates, we believe that another applicant’s skill set aligns more closely with what we’re looking for. Thank you for letting us get to know you.
Sincerely,
[Your Company Name]”
8. Encouraging Future Applications
“Dear [Candidate’s Name],
Though we’re moving forward with a different candidate for this role, we believe your qualifications are commendable. Please consider our other openings, or future positions that might be a better fit.
Best regards,
[Your Company Name]”
9. Short and Respectful
“Dear [Candidate’s Name],
Thank you for your application and interview. We’ve chosen to proceed with another candidate. Best of luck in your career pursuits.
Regards,
[Your Company Name]”
10. Recognizing Dedication
“Dear [Candidate’s Name],
We acknowledge and appreciate your dedication throughout the interview process. At this time, we’ve opted for a different candidate. We hope you find a role that best suits your expertise.
Warm wishes,
[Your Company Name]”
11. Noting Close Deliberation
“Dear [Candidate’s Name],
After careful and close deliberation, we’ve made the tough decision to choose another candidate for the [specific role]. We thank you for your patience and interest in our company.
Thank you,
[Your Company Name]”
12. Highlighting Cultural Fit
“Dear [Candidate’s Name],
While your skills and experience are noteworthy, we felt another candidate was a closer match in terms of our company’s current culture and team dynamics. We wish you success in your job search.
Warm regards,
[Your Company Name]”
13. Mentioning Future Openings
“Dear [Candidate’s Name],
We have selected another candidate for this position, but we see potential in your profile. We’d like to encourage you to apply for our future openings.
Best,
[Your Company Name]”
14. Extending Gratitude for Time
“Dear [Candidate’s Name],
Thank you for taking the time to interview with us. We have chosen to pursue another candidate, but we’re grateful for the chance to meet and talk with you.
Regards,
[Your Company Name]”
15. Encouraging Other Roles in the Company
“Dear [Candidate’s Name],
We’ve decided to go with another candidate for this particular role, but given your qualifications, we hope you’ll consider other roles within our company that might be a better fit.
Best wishes,
[Your Company Name]”
16. Appreciating Understanding
“Dear [Candidate’s Name],
We understand that job hunting can be stressful. Regrettably, we’re moving forward with another applicant. We sincerely appreciate your understanding and patience during this process.
Thank you,
[Your Company Name]”
17. Recognizing Tough Competition
“Dear [Candidate’s Name],
The competition for this position was intense, and while we were impressed with your background and experience, we have chosen another candidate. We genuinely appreciate your interest in our organization.
Warmly,
[Your Company Name]”
18. Honoring the Interview Process
“Dear [Candidate’s Name],
We deeply value the time and insight each candidate brings through the interview process. Though we’re proceeding with another applicant, your effort did not go unnoticed.
Thank you,
[Your Company Name]”
19. Assuring Quality of Application
“Dear [Candidate’s Name],
Your application was of high quality, and our decision was not a reflection on your skills or experience. We’ve chosen another candidate who we believe is a better fit at this time.
Warm regards,
[Your Company Name]”
20. Encouragement for External Growth
“Dear [Candidate’s Name],
While we’ve opted for another candidate for the current opening, we believe that with your skillset and passion, you’ll find the perfect role that aligns with your career goals soon.
Best of luck,
[Your Company Name]”
Conclusion
Crafting a considerate rejection letter speaks volumes about a company’s values and care for its potential employees.
Use these examples to ensure every candidate, whether they’re selected or not, feels valued and respected.