Short
Hi [Name], Thanks for thinking of me for [role]. I'm not looking to move right now, so I'll pass on this one. Good luck with the search. Feel free to reach out again if something different comes up later. Best, [Your name]
Work
How to say no to a recruiter, politely
Three tones for turning down an offer you did not ask for, without ghosting anyone.
When to use this
A recruiter writes about a role you do not want. Maybe you like your job. Maybe the role is wrong. Do not go silent. Silence invites three more follow-ups. One clear answer ends it.
Three variants
Same situation, three different stances.
Warm
Hi [Name], I appreciate you reaching out about [role]. It sounds like a good fit for someone, but the timing is wrong for me. I'm settled where I am, so I'll pass this time. If something outside my current lane comes up later, I'd be glad to hear about it. Thanks again, [Your name]
Firm
Hi [Name], Thanks for the outreach about [role]. I'm not pursuing it, and I'd rather say so plainly than leave you waiting on a maybe. Please take me off your list for similar roles. I appreciate you thinking of me. [Your name]
Why this works
- It answers in the first sentence, so the recruiter does not read a paragraph of pleasantries to find the answer.
- It gives the reason in one line at most. A decision like this needs no defence.
- It leaves the door open on your terms, for a different role.
- It asks outright to leave the list. Use this when you want that, and the firm version works.
Before you send
What to change.
- [Name]
- The recruiter's name.
- [role]
- The role or company they wrote about.
- [Your name]
- Sign with your own name.
Questions
Fair questions, straight answers.
Is it worth giving feedback on the role itself?
Only if you want to. One line of specific feedback helps a recruiter you may want to hear from again. This template does not need it.
What if they keep following up after I say no?
Use the last line of the firm version. Ask plainly to leave the list. Most recruiters respect a direct request the first time.
Where Beemy fits
Your inbox may get more of these than you like. Beemy can spot the pattern. It drafts a reply in your own voice when one arrives and holds it for your approval. Live today on Gmail.
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