How to reply to a job rejection email
Updated November 12, 2026
A short, gracious reply is worth sending, and you can do it within a few days once the sting passes. Thank them for the time, say you would still like the company in your future, and optionally ask for one piece of feedback. Do not argue the decision. The goal is to be remembered well.
- Reply
- Within 2 to 3 days. You are not racing anyone, so take a day to cool off. Replying soon still shows you are professional while they remember your interview.
What your reply should say
- Thank them for the decision and for the time the team spent with you.
- Say in one line that you are still interested in the company.
- If you want it, ask for one specific piece of feedback.
- End warmly and offer to stay in touch for future roles.
3 replies you can copy
Pick the one that matches what you want to say, copy it, and change everything in [brackets].
1Thank and close
You just want to end it on a good note.
Hi [Name], Thank you for letting me know, and for the time you and the team gave me during the process. I enjoyed learning about [specific thing about the role or company]. I wish you the best with the hire. I would welcome the chance to be considered for future openings, and I hope our paths cross again. Kind regards, [Your name]
2Ask for feedback
You want to learn what to improve.
Hi [Name], Thank you for letting me know. I appreciated the chance to interview for the [Job title] role. If you have time, I would be grateful for one or two thoughts on how I could be a stronger candidate. I understand if you cannot share details. Thank you again, [Your name]
3Stay in touch
You would still love to work there.
Hi [Name], Thank you for the update. I am disappointed, but I understand, and I appreciated meeting the team. I would like to stay on your radar. If a role in [area] opens, please let me know. I will keep an eye on your careers page too. Best wishes, [Your name]
Already late? Send this instead
For when you are a week late or more. Own the delay in one line, then do the job.
Hi [Name], I wanted to write back properly after your note about the [Job title] role. Thank you for the time you gave me, and for telling me the outcome directly. I am still interested in [Company], so please keep me in mind for future openings in [area]. Kind regards, [Your name]
Mistakes to avoid
- Arguing the decision or listing why they were wrong to pick someone else.
- Sending your reply the same minute while you are upset. Wait a few hours.
- Asking for feedback in a long list of questions. One focused question gets answered more often.
- Burning the bridge. The same hiring manager may open another role next quarter.
Questions people ask
Is it okay to ask for feedback after a rejection?
Yes, and one polite question is fine. Some companies will not answer for policy reasons, so do not push if they decline. Keep it to a single, specific ask and thank them either way. It also leaves a good last impression, which matters if they open another role or a hiring manager moves companies.
Should I reply at all to a rejection?
You do not have to, but a two-line thank-you costs little and people remember it. It is especially worth it if you got to a late interview round or want the company again. Whatever they say, thank them. Feedback often comes from one busy person, so keep the ask easy to answer.
More reply guides
How this page was made
Written by Westward, who make Orbit, as starting points you edit before sending. The replies use placeholders, not real people or real mail. Nothing here is legal, tax or medical advice; for contracts, money or health, check the document or ask a professional. All reply guides.