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How to refuse an interview invitation with a bad company?
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I'm currently on the market and my CV is opened to the public on multiple job search sites. I have sent my CV to multiple companies and some have found me online and contacted me. One of the companies though is a one for which I don't want to work.
The company has a bad reputation (acts of corruption, playing blame games with diferent providers when their solutions don't work etc) and I had three friends that at different moments in time worked there and all stated the following (biggest mistake of their lives, worst job they ever had, incompetent bosses, low salaries but long working hours, old technologies, bad methodologies etc).
I don't want to work there, I don't even want to go to the interview. My initial reaction was to say **ck off but luckly I resisted...
They will ask for a reason why I don't want to work there so how do I refuse the interview without saying what I really think of them?
interviewing work-environment job-search job-offer
asked Jan 20 '13 at 14:07
user7336
4012
 |Â
show 2 more comments
up vote
6
down vote
favorite
I'm currently on the market and my CV is opened to the public on multiple job search sites. I have sent my CV to multiple companies and some have found me online and contacted me. One of the companies though is a one for which I don't want to work.
The company has a bad reputation (acts of corruption, playing blame games with diferent providers when their solutions don't work etc) and I had three friends that at different moments in time worked there and all stated the following (biggest mistake of their lives, worst job they ever had, incompetent bosses, low salaries but long working hours, old technologies, bad methodologies etc).
I don't want to work there, I don't even want to go to the interview. My initial reaction was to say **ck off but luckly I resisted...
They will ask for a reason why I don't want to work there so how do I refuse the interview without saying what I really think of them?
interviewing work-environment job-search job-offer
asked Jan 20 '13 at 14:07
user7336
4012
40
"No, thank you."
– jcmeloni
Jan 20 '13 at 15:41
12
You really can overthink some things - "No, thank you" is all that is needed.
– Matt
Jan 21 '13 at 7:29
1
Why don't you want to say what you really think of them? Maybe it'll make them think.
– pdr
Jan 21 '13 at 10:56
They don't need a reason. Simply say what jcmeloni stated.
– DA.
Feb 5 '13 at 3:47
Besides "no, thank you", I don't see any problems saying you've heard a lot of negative opinions about the company without going into details. What's the sense in concealing this? Do you think they will feel bad?
– sharptooth
Feb 5 '13 at 12:52
 |Â
show 2 more comments
up vote
6
down vote
favorite
up vote
6
down vote
favorite
I'm currently on the market and my CV is opened to the public on multiple job search sites. I have sent my CV to multiple companies and some have found me online and contacted me. One of the companies though is a one for which I don't want to work.
The company has a bad reputation (acts of corruption, playing blame games with diferent providers when their solutions don't work etc) and I had three friends that at different moments in time worked there and all stated the following (biggest mistake of their lives, worst job they ever had, incompetent bosses, low salaries but long working hours, old technologies, bad methodologies etc).
I don't want to work there, I don't even want to go to the interview. My initial reaction was to say **ck off but luckly I resisted...
They will ask for a reason why I don't want to work there so how do I refuse the interview without saying what I really think of them?
interviewing work-environment job-search job-offer
asked Jan 20 '13 at 14:07
user7336
4012
I'm currently on the market and my CV is opened to the public on multiple job search sites. I have sent my CV to multiple companies and some have found me online and contacted me. One of the companies though is a one for which I don't want to work.
The company has a bad reputation (acts of corruption, playing blame games with diferent providers when their solutions don't work etc) and I had three friends that at different moments in time worked there and all stated the following (biggest mistake of their lives, worst job they ever had, incompetent bosses, low salaries but long working hours, old technologies, bad methodologies etc).
I don't want to work there, I don't even want to go to the interview. My initial reaction was to say **ck off but luckly I resisted...
They will ask for a reason why I don't want to work there so how do I refuse the interview without saying what I really think of them?
interviewing work-environment job-search job-offer
asked Jan 20 '13 at 14:07
user7336
4012
asked Jan 20 '13 at 14:07
user7336
4012
asked Jan 20 '13 at 14:07
user7336
4012
asked Jan 20 '13 at 14:07
user7336
4012
4012
40
"No, thank you."
– jcmeloni
Jan 20 '13 at 15:41
12
You really can overthink some things - "No, thank you" is all that is needed.
– Matt
Jan 21 '13 at 7:29
1
Why don't you want to say what you really think of them? Maybe it'll make them think.
– pdr
Jan 21 '13 at 10:56
They don't need a reason. Simply say what jcmeloni stated.
– DA.
Feb 5 '13 at 3:47
Besides "no, thank you", I don't see any problems saying you've heard a lot of negative opinions about the company without going into details. What's the sense in concealing this? Do you think they will feel bad?
– sharptooth
Feb 5 '13 at 12:52
 |Â
show 2 more comments
40
"No, thank you."
– jcmeloni
Jan 20 '13 at 15:41
12
You really can overthink some things - "No, thank you" is all that is needed.
– Matt
Jan 21 '13 at 7:29
1
Why don't you want to say what you really think of them? Maybe it'll make them think.
– pdr
Jan 21 '13 at 10:56
They don't need a reason. Simply say what jcmeloni stated.
– DA.
Feb 5 '13 at 3:47
Besides "no, thank you", I don't see any problems saying you've heard a lot of negative opinions about the company without going into details. What's the sense in concealing this? Do you think they will feel bad?
– sharptooth
Feb 5 '13 at 12:52
40
40
"No, thank you."
– jcmeloni
Jan 20 '13 at 15:41
"No, thank you."
– jcmeloni
Jan 20 '13 at 15:41
12
12
You really can overthink some things - "No, thank you" is all that is needed.
– Matt
Jan 21 '13 at 7:29
You really can overthink some things - "No, thank you" is all that is needed.
– Matt
Jan 21 '13 at 7:29
1
1
Why don't you want to say what you really think of them? Maybe it'll make them think.
– pdr
Jan 21 '13 at 10:56
Why don't you want to say what you really think of them? Maybe it'll make them think.
– pdr
Jan 21 '13 at 10:56
They don't need a reason. Simply say what jcmeloni stated.
– DA.
Feb 5 '13 at 3:47
They don't need a reason. Simply say what jcmeloni stated.
– DA.
Feb 5 '13 at 3:47
Besides "no, thank you", I don't see any problems saying you've heard a lot of negative opinions about the company without going into details. What's the sense in concealing this? Do you think they will feel bad?
– sharptooth
Feb 5 '13 at 12:52
Besides "no, thank you", I don't see any problems saying you've heard a lot of negative opinions about the company without going into details. What's the sense in concealing this? Do you think they will feel bad?
– sharptooth
Feb 5 '13 at 12:52
 |Â
show 2 more comments
6 Answers
6
active
oldest
votes
up vote
29
down vote
Just a note, this question and this one are similar (but different circumstances). Those answers might be useful as well.
You can respond simply with an email/verbal:
No thank you, I am not interested at this time.
If they press you for details, simply say:
I'm sorry, but I prefer not to disclose that information.
Turning down a company asking you to interview with them isn't that big of a deal at all if done this way (even if you did care about working for them in the future, which you obviously don't).
Simply say "no thanks" and move on with your life and don't worry about turning them down. They aren't asking you to marry them after all.
edited Jan 21 at 11:17
Dukeling
8,70132447
answered Jan 20 '13 at 14:20
Elysian Fields♦
96.9k46292449
2
Indeed, just say "no thanks." They're contacting people from CVs posted online - they expect that many of the people they contact will not be interested because they are not currently looking for a new job. They're not going to be surprised or offended to get a lot of "no thanks" replies.
– Carson63000
Jan 21 '13 at 0:37
add a comment |Â
up vote
8
down vote
They can ask why you aren't interested in the interview. You are under no obligation to give them an answer (no matter how much they may pressure you into opening up about it), and the longer your response the greater risk you take. People talk to people at other companies, hiring managers change jobs, etc. - so you may encounter these same people at a desirable company in the future.
A simple "No, thank you. I am not interested in the position at this time" is all you need to say.
answered Jan 20 '13 at 20:22
alroc
12.8k23954
add a comment |Â
up vote
6
down vote
As noted by others, you can try just saying something such as "Thank you, but I'm not interested at this time." I believe most places will not press you further. However, if they do, you can respond with "Sorry, I really don't want to discuss this." or a similar statement.
If they really press for an explanation of why you don't want to interview with them, and you feel compelled to give some sort of explanation, I recommend telling the truth. It may be that they don't realize their reputation is poor and this will be the wake up call they need to start changing. Or, the person trying to get you to interview may know their employer's reputation, but has been unable to effect improvements, and this may help them start those changes. Admittedly, they may get upset, but remember you're just the messenger here. Also, I wouldn't expect change, but it is possible. In giving an answer such has this, I recommend that you avoid being rude. Say something like: "Unfortunately, your company's reputation as an employer isn't good and I don't believe I would enjoy working there. Thus, I don't want to waste your time in an interview."
Having said all that, I'm going to suggest that you consider interviewing with them anyway. It's possible that their reputation is undeserved (as a flip side to this, the worst place I ever worked was very impressive when I interviewed and advertises themselves as a prestigious and great place to work). They may like you enough to make an unbelievable offer. Both those scenarios may be far-fetched, but are possible. Additionally, practicing your interviewing skills has benefit for future interviews and is usually easier when you're not anxious about getting the job. This other question has more about interviewing when you don't think you'll be interested in the job. However, if that doesn't seem worth the time and effort, feel free to turn them down.
edited Apr 13 '17 at 12:48
Community♦
1
answered Jan 21 '13 at 6:38
GreenMatt
15.6k1465109
Okay, I know the chance of the downvoter seeing this and commenting are slim, but I'm curious what is objectional in this answer. If that's made clear to me, it would give me a chance to improve the answer.
– GreenMatt
Jan 21 '13 at 18:01
1
There is zero benefit behind telling the company "I heard you guys suck" if pressed. This can ONLY backfire on you professionally and will never serve to be beneficial (because the context of the interaction doesn't require any explanation whatsoever).
– Elysian Fields♦
Jan 22 '13 at 15:43
Additionally, interviewing at a place you KNOW you don't want to work is a huge waste of your time (the other question doesn't have a "I will never work for this company" vibe - the question is more "I don't anticipate leaving my current job"). If you want to get practice interviewing, at least interview with companies or for positions there is a chance you would be interested in
– Elysian Fields♦
Jan 22 '13 at 15:45
@enderland: I respectfully disagree on both points, but thanks to the explanation. Also, I said to be respectful, NOT "I heard you guys suck".
– GreenMatt
Jan 22 '13 at 16:49
1
@enderland: I agree there is only a small chance of personal benefit from telling the company they have a poor reputation. Thus, my initial suggestion is to say " ... I'm not interested ...", but I thought it beneficial to go beyond that. Even if you don't help yourself, you might help someone else.
– GreenMatt
Jan 25 '13 at 17:38
 |Â
show 3 more comments
up vote
5
down vote
If the goal was to keep your future job prospects open with a particular company, then you would want to make sure that your response to them was nuanced and diplomatic. But because they would have to make a radical overhaul to their business philosophy before you would even consider working for them, you don't have to agonize over finding just the right words.
You are looking for words that say no thank you, but I have decided to go in a different direction. In fact I would use those words exactly.
If they don't get the hint and keep trying to contact you, just keep deleting their emails.
answered Jan 20 '13 at 19:33
mhoran_psprep
40.3k463144
add a comment |Â
up vote
3
down vote
Short and sweet is always best - "No Thank You" along with "I'm not interested in a position in your company" is a fine answer - and if you want to avoid temptation, send it by email.
If your only option is to phone and speak to a live human, and you get pressed, there's no reason not to say "Your company does not have a good reputation, based on my observations, I doubt I would be happy working for you." It's your call - you can also say "I'd prefer not to disclose this information", or "I'm simply not interested" and leave it at that. You certainly don't owe any explanation for an unsolicited request to apply! It would be the same thing as explaining to a telemarketer why they are annoying.
Figure that the person making contact with you is very indirectly connected to the policies and cultural norms that trouble you, so taking it out this person in a lengthy rant is going to do no good.
answered Jan 22 '13 at 16:28
bethlakshmi
70.4k4136277
add a comment |Â
up vote
-1
down vote
There are lots of ways to refuse an interview. However, why do you apply on it in the first place? You already know that the company has bad reputation and it was proven by your friends. You could just say that you’re not interested anymore or make an alibi that you have another interview on other companies and you don’t have the time to come on the interview.
answered Feb 5 '13 at 3:15
enzomar
591
2
"why do you apply on it in the first place?" - OP states that this particular company has approached him (due to his CV being available online), so he didn't apply.
– 3N1GM4
Dec 29 '16 at 15:17
add a comment |Â
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6 Answers
6
active
oldest
votes
6 Answers
6
active
oldest
votes
active
oldest
votes
active
oldest
votes
up vote
29
down vote
Just a note, this question and this one are similar (but different circumstances). Those answers might be useful as well.
You can respond simply with an email/verbal:
No thank you, I am not interested at this time.
If they press you for details, simply say:
I'm sorry, but I prefer not to disclose that information.
Turning down a company asking you to interview with them isn't that big of a deal at all if done this way (even if you did care about working for them in the future, which you obviously don't).
Simply say "no thanks" and move on with your life and don't worry about turning them down. They aren't asking you to marry them after all.
edited Jan 21 at 11:17
Dukeling
8,70132447
answered Jan 20 '13 at 14:20
Elysian Fields♦
96.9k46292449
2
Indeed, just say "no thanks." They're contacting people from CVs posted online - they expect that many of the people they contact will not be interested because they are not currently looking for a new job. They're not going to be surprised or offended to get a lot of "no thanks" replies.
– Carson63000
Jan 21 '13 at 0:37
add a comment |Â
up vote
29
down vote
Just a note, this question and this one are similar (but different circumstances). Those answers might be useful as well.
You can respond simply with an email/verbal:
No thank you, I am not interested at this time.
If they press you for details, simply say:
I'm sorry, but I prefer not to disclose that information.
Turning down a company asking you to interview with them isn't that big of a deal at all if done this way (even if you did care about working for them in the future, which you obviously don't).
Simply say "no thanks" and move on with your life and don't worry about turning them down. They aren't asking you to marry them after all.
edited Jan 21 at 11:17
Dukeling
8,70132447
answered Jan 20 '13 at 14:20
Elysian Fields♦
96.9k46292449
2
Indeed, just say "no thanks." They're contacting people from CVs posted online - they expect that many of the people they contact will not be interested because they are not currently looking for a new job. They're not going to be surprised or offended to get a lot of "no thanks" replies.
– Carson63000
Jan 21 '13 at 0:37
add a comment |Â
up vote
29
down vote
up vote
29
down vote
Just a note, this question and this one are similar (but different circumstances). Those answers might be useful as well.
You can respond simply with an email/verbal:
No thank you, I am not interested at this time.
If they press you for details, simply say:
I'm sorry, but I prefer not to disclose that information.
Turning down a company asking you to interview with them isn't that big of a deal at all if done this way (even if you did care about working for them in the future, which you obviously don't).
Simply say "no thanks" and move on with your life and don't worry about turning them down. They aren't asking you to marry them after all.
edited Jan 21 at 11:17
Dukeling
8,70132447
answered Jan 20 '13 at 14:20
Elysian Fields♦
96.9k46292449
Just a note, this question and this one are similar (but different circumstances). Those answers might be useful as well.
You can respond simply with an email/verbal:
No thank you, I am not interested at this time.
If they press you for details, simply say:
I'm sorry, but I prefer not to disclose that information.
Turning down a company asking you to interview with them isn't that big of a deal at all if done this way (even if you did care about working for them in the future, which you obviously don't).
Simply say "no thanks" and move on with your life and don't worry about turning them down. They aren't asking you to marry them after all.
edited Jan 21 at 11:17
Dukeling
8,70132447
answered Jan 20 '13 at 14:20
Elysian Fields♦
96.9k46292449
edited Jan 21 at 11:17
Dukeling
8,70132447
edited Jan 21 at 11:17
Dukeling
8,70132447
edited Jan 21 at 11:17
Dukeling
8,70132447
8,70132447
answered Jan 20 '13 at 14:20
Elysian Fields♦
96.9k46292449
answered Jan 20 '13 at 14:20
Elysian Fields♦
96.9k46292449
answered Jan 20 '13 at 14:20
Elysian Fields♦
96.9k46292449
96.9k46292449
2
Indeed, just say "no thanks." They're contacting people from CVs posted online - they expect that many of the people they contact will not be interested because they are not currently looking for a new job. They're not going to be surprised or offended to get a lot of "no thanks" replies.
– Carson63000
Jan 21 '13 at 0:37
add a comment |Â
2
Indeed, just say "no thanks." They're contacting people from CVs posted online - they expect that many of the people they contact will not be interested because they are not currently looking for a new job. They're not going to be surprised or offended to get a lot of "no thanks" replies.
– Carson63000
Jan 21 '13 at 0:37
2
2
Indeed, just say "no thanks." They're contacting people from CVs posted online - they expect that many of the people they contact will not be interested because they are not currently looking for a new job. They're not going to be surprised or offended to get a lot of "no thanks" replies.
– Carson63000
Jan 21 '13 at 0:37
Indeed, just say "no thanks." They're contacting people from CVs posted online - they expect that many of the people they contact will not be interested because they are not currently looking for a new job. They're not going to be surprised or offended to get a lot of "no thanks" replies.
– Carson63000
Jan 21 '13 at 0:37
add a comment |Â
up vote
8
down vote
They can ask why you aren't interested in the interview. You are under no obligation to give them an answer (no matter how much they may pressure you into opening up about it), and the longer your response the greater risk you take. People talk to people at other companies, hiring managers change jobs, etc. - so you may encounter these same people at a desirable company in the future.
A simple "No, thank you. I am not interested in the position at this time" is all you need to say.
answered Jan 20 '13 at 20:22
alroc
12.8k23954
add a comment |Â
up vote
8
down vote
They can ask why you aren't interested in the interview. You are under no obligation to give them an answer (no matter how much they may pressure you into opening up about it), and the longer your response the greater risk you take. People talk to people at other companies, hiring managers change jobs, etc. - so you may encounter these same people at a desirable company in the future.
A simple "No, thank you. I am not interested in the position at this time" is all you need to say.
answered Jan 20 '13 at 20:22
alroc
12.8k23954
add a comment |Â
up vote
8
down vote
up vote
8
down vote
They can ask why you aren't interested in the interview. You are under no obligation to give them an answer (no matter how much they may pressure you into opening up about it), and the longer your response the greater risk you take. People talk to people at other companies, hiring managers change jobs, etc. - so you may encounter these same people at a desirable company in the future.
A simple "No, thank you. I am not interested in the position at this time" is all you need to say.
answered Jan 20 '13 at 20:22
alroc
12.8k23954
They can ask why you aren't interested in the interview. You are under no obligation to give them an answer (no matter how much they may pressure you into opening up about it), and the longer your response the greater risk you take. People talk to people at other companies, hiring managers change jobs, etc. - so you may encounter these same people at a desirable company in the future.
A simple "No, thank you. I am not interested in the position at this time" is all you need to say.
answered Jan 20 '13 at 20:22
alroc
12.8k23954
answered Jan 20 '13 at 20:22
alroc
12.8k23954
answered Jan 20 '13 at 20:22
alroc
12.8k23954
answered Jan 20 '13 at 20:22
alroc
12.8k23954
12.8k23954
add a comment |Â
add a comment |Â
up vote
6
down vote
As noted by others, you can try just saying something such as "Thank you, but I'm not interested at this time." I believe most places will not press you further. However, if they do, you can respond with "Sorry, I really don't want to discuss this." or a similar statement.
If they really press for an explanation of why you don't want to interview with them, and you feel compelled to give some sort of explanation, I recommend telling the truth. It may be that they don't realize their reputation is poor and this will be the wake up call they need to start changing. Or, the person trying to get you to interview may know their employer's reputation, but has been unable to effect improvements, and this may help them start those changes. Admittedly, they may get upset, but remember you're just the messenger here. Also, I wouldn't expect change, but it is possible. In giving an answer such has this, I recommend that you avoid being rude. Say something like: "Unfortunately, your company's reputation as an employer isn't good and I don't believe I would enjoy working there. Thus, I don't want to waste your time in an interview."
Having said all that, I'm going to suggest that you consider interviewing with them anyway. It's possible that their reputation is undeserved (as a flip side to this, the worst place I ever worked was very impressive when I interviewed and advertises themselves as a prestigious and great place to work). They may like you enough to make an unbelievable offer. Both those scenarios may be far-fetched, but are possible. Additionally, practicing your interviewing skills has benefit for future interviews and is usually easier when you're not anxious about getting the job. This other question has more about interviewing when you don't think you'll be interested in the job. However, if that doesn't seem worth the time and effort, feel free to turn them down.
edited Apr 13 '17 at 12:48
Community♦
1
answered Jan 21 '13 at 6:38
GreenMatt
15.6k1465109
Okay, I know the chance of the downvoter seeing this and commenting are slim, but I'm curious what is objectional in this answer. If that's made clear to me, it would give me a chance to improve the answer.
– GreenMatt
Jan 21 '13 at 18:01
1
There is zero benefit behind telling the company "I heard you guys suck" if pressed. This can ONLY backfire on you professionally and will never serve to be beneficial (because the context of the interaction doesn't require any explanation whatsoever).
– Elysian Fields♦
Jan 22 '13 at 15:43
Additionally, interviewing at a place you KNOW you don't want to work is a huge waste of your time (the other question doesn't have a "I will never work for this company" vibe - the question is more "I don't anticipate leaving my current job"). If you want to get practice interviewing, at least interview with companies or for positions there is a chance you would be interested in
– Elysian Fields♦
Jan 22 '13 at 15:45
@enderland: I respectfully disagree on both points, but thanks to the explanation. Also, I said to be respectful, NOT "I heard you guys suck".
– GreenMatt
Jan 22 '13 at 16:49
1
@enderland: I agree there is only a small chance of personal benefit from telling the company they have a poor reputation. Thus, my initial suggestion is to say " ... I'm not interested ...", but I thought it beneficial to go beyond that. Even if you don't help yourself, you might help someone else.
– GreenMatt
Jan 25 '13 at 17:38
 |Â
show 3 more comments
up vote
6
down vote
As noted by others, you can try just saying something such as "Thank you, but I'm not interested at this time." I believe most places will not press you further. However, if they do, you can respond with "Sorry, I really don't want to discuss this." or a similar statement.
If they really press for an explanation of why you don't want to interview with them, and you feel compelled to give some sort of explanation, I recommend telling the truth. It may be that they don't realize their reputation is poor and this will be the wake up call they need to start changing. Or, the person trying to get you to interview may know their employer's reputation, but has been unable to effect improvements, and this may help them start those changes. Admittedly, they may get upset, but remember you're just the messenger here. Also, I wouldn't expect change, but it is possible. In giving an answer such has this, I recommend that you avoid being rude. Say something like: "Unfortunately, your company's reputation as an employer isn't good and I don't believe I would enjoy working there. Thus, I don't want to waste your time in an interview."
Having said all that, I'm going to suggest that you consider interviewing with them anyway. It's possible that their reputation is undeserved (as a flip side to this, the worst place I ever worked was very impressive when I interviewed and advertises themselves as a prestigious and great place to work). They may like you enough to make an unbelievable offer. Both those scenarios may be far-fetched, but are possible. Additionally, practicing your interviewing skills has benefit for future interviews and is usually easier when you're not anxious about getting the job. This other question has more about interviewing when you don't think you'll be interested in the job. However, if that doesn't seem worth the time and effort, feel free to turn them down.
edited Apr 13 '17 at 12:48
Community♦
1
answered Jan 21 '13 at 6:38
GreenMatt
15.6k1465109
Okay, I know the chance of the downvoter seeing this and commenting are slim, but I'm curious what is objectional in this answer. If that's made clear to me, it would give me a chance to improve the answer.
– GreenMatt
Jan 21 '13 at 18:01
1
There is zero benefit behind telling the company "I heard you guys suck" if pressed. This can ONLY backfire on you professionally and will never serve to be beneficial (because the context of the interaction doesn't require any explanation whatsoever).
– Elysian Fields♦
Jan 22 '13 at 15:43
Additionally, interviewing at a place you KNOW you don't want to work is a huge waste of your time (the other question doesn't have a "I will never work for this company" vibe - the question is more "I don't anticipate leaving my current job"). If you want to get practice interviewing, at least interview with companies or for positions there is a chance you would be interested in
– Elysian Fields♦
Jan 22 '13 at 15:45
@enderland: I respectfully disagree on both points, but thanks to the explanation. Also, I said to be respectful, NOT "I heard you guys suck".
– GreenMatt
Jan 22 '13 at 16:49
1
@enderland: I agree there is only a small chance of personal benefit from telling the company they have a poor reputation. Thus, my initial suggestion is to say " ... I'm not interested ...", but I thought it beneficial to go beyond that. Even if you don't help yourself, you might help someone else.
– GreenMatt
Jan 25 '13 at 17:38
 |Â
show 3 more comments
up vote
6
down vote
up vote
6
down vote
As noted by others, you can try just saying something such as "Thank you, but I'm not interested at this time." I believe most places will not press you further. However, if they do, you can respond with "Sorry, I really don't want to discuss this." or a similar statement.
If they really press for an explanation of why you don't want to interview with them, and you feel compelled to give some sort of explanation, I recommend telling the truth. It may be that they don't realize their reputation is poor and this will be the wake up call they need to start changing. Or, the person trying to get you to interview may know their employer's reputation, but has been unable to effect improvements, and this may help them start those changes. Admittedly, they may get upset, but remember you're just the messenger here. Also, I wouldn't expect change, but it is possible. In giving an answer such has this, I recommend that you avoid being rude. Say something like: "Unfortunately, your company's reputation as an employer isn't good and I don't believe I would enjoy working there. Thus, I don't want to waste your time in an interview."
Having said all that, I'm going to suggest that you consider interviewing with them anyway. It's possible that their reputation is undeserved (as a flip side to this, the worst place I ever worked was very impressive when I interviewed and advertises themselves as a prestigious and great place to work). They may like you enough to make an unbelievable offer. Both those scenarios may be far-fetched, but are possible. Additionally, practicing your interviewing skills has benefit for future interviews and is usually easier when you're not anxious about getting the job. This other question has more about interviewing when you don't think you'll be interested in the job. However, if that doesn't seem worth the time and effort, feel free to turn them down.
edited Apr 13 '17 at 12:48
Community♦
1
answered Jan 21 '13 at 6:38
GreenMatt
15.6k1465109
As noted by others, you can try just saying something such as "Thank you, but I'm not interested at this time." I believe most places will not press you further. However, if they do, you can respond with "Sorry, I really don't want to discuss this." or a similar statement.
If they really press for an explanation of why you don't want to interview with them, and you feel compelled to give some sort of explanation, I recommend telling the truth. It may be that they don't realize their reputation is poor and this will be the wake up call they need to start changing. Or, the person trying to get you to interview may know their employer's reputation, but has been unable to effect improvements, and this may help them start those changes. Admittedly, they may get upset, but remember you're just the messenger here. Also, I wouldn't expect change, but it is possible. In giving an answer such has this, I recommend that you avoid being rude. Say something like: "Unfortunately, your company's reputation as an employer isn't good and I don't believe I would enjoy working there. Thus, I don't want to waste your time in an interview."
Having said all that, I'm going to suggest that you consider interviewing with them anyway. It's possible that their reputation is undeserved (as a flip side to this, the worst place I ever worked was very impressive when I interviewed and advertises themselves as a prestigious and great place to work). They may like you enough to make an unbelievable offer. Both those scenarios may be far-fetched, but are possible. Additionally, practicing your interviewing skills has benefit for future interviews and is usually easier when you're not anxious about getting the job. This other question has more about interviewing when you don't think you'll be interested in the job. However, if that doesn't seem worth the time and effort, feel free to turn them down.
edited Apr 13 '17 at 12:48
Community♦
1
answered Jan 21 '13 at 6:38
GreenMatt
15.6k1465109
edited Apr 13 '17 at 12:48
Community♦
1
edited Apr 13 '17 at 12:48
Community♦
1
edited Apr 13 '17 at 12:48
Community♦
1
1
answered Jan 21 '13 at 6:38
GreenMatt
15.6k1465109
answered Jan 21 '13 at 6:38
GreenMatt
15.6k1465109
answered Jan 21 '13 at 6:38
GreenMatt
15.6k1465109
15.6k1465109
Okay, I know the chance of the downvoter seeing this and commenting are slim, but I'm curious what is objectional in this answer. If that's made clear to me, it would give me a chance to improve the answer.
– GreenMatt
Jan 21 '13 at 18:01
1
There is zero benefit behind telling the company "I heard you guys suck" if pressed. This can ONLY backfire on you professionally and will never serve to be beneficial (because the context of the interaction doesn't require any explanation whatsoever).
– Elysian Fields♦
Jan 22 '13 at 15:43
Additionally, interviewing at a place you KNOW you don't want to work is a huge waste of your time (the other question doesn't have a "I will never work for this company" vibe - the question is more "I don't anticipate leaving my current job"). If you want to get practice interviewing, at least interview with companies or for positions there is a chance you would be interested in
– Elysian Fields♦
Jan 22 '13 at 15:45
@enderland: I respectfully disagree on both points, but thanks to the explanation. Also, I said to be respectful, NOT "I heard you guys suck".
– GreenMatt
Jan 22 '13 at 16:49
1
@enderland: I agree there is only a small chance of personal benefit from telling the company they have a poor reputation. Thus, my initial suggestion is to say " ... I'm not interested ...", but I thought it beneficial to go beyond that. Even if you don't help yourself, you might help someone else.
– GreenMatt
Jan 25 '13 at 17:38
 |Â
show 3 more comments
Okay, I know the chance of the downvoter seeing this and commenting are slim, but I'm curious what is objectional in this answer. If that's made clear to me, it would give me a chance to improve the answer.
– GreenMatt
Jan 21 '13 at 18:01
1
There is zero benefit behind telling the company "I heard you guys suck" if pressed. This can ONLY backfire on you professionally and will never serve to be beneficial (because the context of the interaction doesn't require any explanation whatsoever).
– Elysian Fields♦
Jan 22 '13 at 15:43
Additionally, interviewing at a place you KNOW you don't want to work is a huge waste of your time (the other question doesn't have a "I will never work for this company" vibe - the question is more "I don't anticipate leaving my current job"). If you want to get practice interviewing, at least interview with companies or for positions there is a chance you would be interested in
– Elysian Fields♦
Jan 22 '13 at 15:45
@enderland: I respectfully disagree on both points, but thanks to the explanation. Also, I said to be respectful, NOT "I heard you guys suck".
– GreenMatt
Jan 22 '13 at 16:49
1
@enderland: I agree there is only a small chance of personal benefit from telling the company they have a poor reputation. Thus, my initial suggestion is to say " ... I'm not interested ...", but I thought it beneficial to go beyond that. Even if you don't help yourself, you might help someone else.
– GreenMatt
Jan 25 '13 at 17:38
Okay, I know the chance of the downvoter seeing this and commenting are slim, but I'm curious what is objectional in this answer. If that's made clear to me, it would give me a chance to improve the answer.
– GreenMatt
Jan 21 '13 at 18:01
Okay, I know the chance of the downvoter seeing this and commenting are slim, but I'm curious what is objectional in this answer. If that's made clear to me, it would give me a chance to improve the answer.
– GreenMatt
Jan 21 '13 at 18:01
1
1
There is zero benefit behind telling the company "I heard you guys suck" if pressed. This can ONLY backfire on you professionally and will never serve to be beneficial (because the context of the interaction doesn't require any explanation whatsoever).
– Elysian Fields♦
Jan 22 '13 at 15:43
There is zero benefit behind telling the company "I heard you guys suck" if pressed. This can ONLY backfire on you professionally and will never serve to be beneficial (because the context of the interaction doesn't require any explanation whatsoever).
– Elysian Fields♦
Jan 22 '13 at 15:43
Additionally, interviewing at a place you KNOW you don't want to work is a huge waste of your time (the other question doesn't have a "I will never work for this company" vibe - the question is more "I don't anticipate leaving my current job"). If you want to get practice interviewing, at least interview with companies or for positions there is a chance you would be interested in
– Elysian Fields♦
Jan 22 '13 at 15:45
Additionally, interviewing at a place you KNOW you don't want to work is a huge waste of your time (the other question doesn't have a "I will never work for this company" vibe - the question is more "I don't anticipate leaving my current job"). If you want to get practice interviewing, at least interview with companies or for positions there is a chance you would be interested in
– Elysian Fields♦
Jan 22 '13 at 15:45
@enderland: I respectfully disagree on both points, but thanks to the explanation. Also, I said to be respectful, NOT "I heard you guys suck".
– GreenMatt
Jan 22 '13 at 16:49
@enderland: I respectfully disagree on both points, but thanks to the explanation. Also, I said to be respectful, NOT "I heard you guys suck".
– GreenMatt
Jan 22 '13 at 16:49
1
1
@enderland: I agree there is only a small chance of personal benefit from telling the company they have a poor reputation. Thus, my initial suggestion is to say " ... I'm not interested ...", but I thought it beneficial to go beyond that. Even if you don't help yourself, you might help someone else.
– GreenMatt
Jan 25 '13 at 17:38
@enderland: I agree there is only a small chance of personal benefit from telling the company they have a poor reputation. Thus, my initial suggestion is to say " ... I'm not interested ...", but I thought it beneficial to go beyond that. Even if you don't help yourself, you might help someone else.
– GreenMatt
Jan 25 '13 at 17:38
 |Â
show 3 more comments
up vote
5
down vote
If the goal was to keep your future job prospects open with a particular company, then you would want to make sure that your response to them was nuanced and diplomatic. But because they would have to make a radical overhaul to their business philosophy before you would even consider working for them, you don't have to agonize over finding just the right words.
You are looking for words that say no thank you, but I have decided to go in a different direction. In fact I would use those words exactly.
If they don't get the hint and keep trying to contact you, just keep deleting their emails.
answered Jan 20 '13 at 19:33
mhoran_psprep
40.3k463144
add a comment |Â
up vote
5
down vote
If the goal was to keep your future job prospects open with a particular company, then you would want to make sure that your response to them was nuanced and diplomatic. But because they would have to make a radical overhaul to their business philosophy before you would even consider working for them, you don't have to agonize over finding just the right words.
You are looking for words that say no thank you, but I have decided to go in a different direction. In fact I would use those words exactly.
If they don't get the hint and keep trying to contact you, just keep deleting their emails.
answered Jan 20 '13 at 19:33
mhoran_psprep
40.3k463144
add a comment |Â
up vote
5
down vote
up vote
5
down vote
If the goal was to keep your future job prospects open with a particular company, then you would want to make sure that your response to them was nuanced and diplomatic. But because they would have to make a radical overhaul to their business philosophy before you would even consider working for them, you don't have to agonize over finding just the right words.
You are looking for words that say no thank you, but I have decided to go in a different direction. In fact I would use those words exactly.
If they don't get the hint and keep trying to contact you, just keep deleting their emails.
answered Jan 20 '13 at 19:33
mhoran_psprep
40.3k463144
If the goal was to keep your future job prospects open with a particular company, then you would want to make sure that your response to them was nuanced and diplomatic. But because they would have to make a radical overhaul to their business philosophy before you would even consider working for them, you don't have to agonize over finding just the right words.
You are looking for words that say no thank you, but I have decided to go in a different direction. In fact I would use those words exactly.
If they don't get the hint and keep trying to contact you, just keep deleting their emails.
answered Jan 20 '13 at 19:33
mhoran_psprep
40.3k463144
answered Jan 20 '13 at 19:33
mhoran_psprep
40.3k463144
answered Jan 20 '13 at 19:33
mhoran_psprep
40.3k463144
answered Jan 20 '13 at 19:33
mhoran_psprep
40.3k463144
40.3k463144
add a comment |Â
add a comment |Â
up vote
3
down vote
Short and sweet is always best - "No Thank You" along with "I'm not interested in a position in your company" is a fine answer - and if you want to avoid temptation, send it by email.
If your only option is to phone and speak to a live human, and you get pressed, there's no reason not to say "Your company does not have a good reputation, based on my observations, I doubt I would be happy working for you." It's your call - you can also say "I'd prefer not to disclose this information", or "I'm simply not interested" and leave it at that. You certainly don't owe any explanation for an unsolicited request to apply! It would be the same thing as explaining to a telemarketer why they are annoying.
Figure that the person making contact with you is very indirectly connected to the policies and cultural norms that trouble you, so taking it out this person in a lengthy rant is going to do no good.
answered Jan 22 '13 at 16:28
bethlakshmi
70.4k4136277
add a comment |Â
up vote
3
down vote
Short and sweet is always best - "No Thank You" along with "I'm not interested in a position in your company" is a fine answer - and if you want to avoid temptation, send it by email.
If your only option is to phone and speak to a live human, and you get pressed, there's no reason not to say "Your company does not have a good reputation, based on my observations, I doubt I would be happy working for you." It's your call - you can also say "I'd prefer not to disclose this information", or "I'm simply not interested" and leave it at that. You certainly don't owe any explanation for an unsolicited request to apply! It would be the same thing as explaining to a telemarketer why they are annoying.
Figure that the person making contact with you is very indirectly connected to the policies and cultural norms that trouble you, so taking it out this person in a lengthy rant is going to do no good.
answered Jan 22 '13 at 16:28
bethlakshmi
70.4k4136277
add a comment |Â
up vote
3
down vote
up vote
3
down vote
Short and sweet is always best - "No Thank You" along with "I'm not interested in a position in your company" is a fine answer - and if you want to avoid temptation, send it by email.
If your only option is to phone and speak to a live human, and you get pressed, there's no reason not to say "Your company does not have a good reputation, based on my observations, I doubt I would be happy working for you." It's your call - you can also say "I'd prefer not to disclose this information", or "I'm simply not interested" and leave it at that. You certainly don't owe any explanation for an unsolicited request to apply! It would be the same thing as explaining to a telemarketer why they are annoying.
Figure that the person making contact with you is very indirectly connected to the policies and cultural norms that trouble you, so taking it out this person in a lengthy rant is going to do no good.
answered Jan 22 '13 at 16:28
bethlakshmi
70.4k4136277
Short and sweet is always best - "No Thank You" along with "I'm not interested in a position in your company" is a fine answer - and if you want to avoid temptation, send it by email.
If your only option is to phone and speak to a live human, and you get pressed, there's no reason not to say "Your company does not have a good reputation, based on my observations, I doubt I would be happy working for you." It's your call - you can also say "I'd prefer not to disclose this information", or "I'm simply not interested" and leave it at that. You certainly don't owe any explanation for an unsolicited request to apply! It would be the same thing as explaining to a telemarketer why they are annoying.
Figure that the person making contact with you is very indirectly connected to the policies and cultural norms that trouble you, so taking it out this person in a lengthy rant is going to do no good.
answered Jan 22 '13 at 16:28
bethlakshmi
70.4k4136277
answered Jan 22 '13 at 16:28
bethlakshmi
70.4k4136277
answered Jan 22 '13 at 16:28
bethlakshmi
70.4k4136277
answered Jan 22 '13 at 16:28
bethlakshmi
70.4k4136277
70.4k4136277
add a comment |Â
add a comment |Â
up vote
-1
down vote
There are lots of ways to refuse an interview. However, why do you apply on it in the first place? You already know that the company has bad reputation and it was proven by your friends. You could just say that you’re not interested anymore or make an alibi that you have another interview on other companies and you don’t have the time to come on the interview.
answered Feb 5 '13 at 3:15
enzomar
591
2
"why do you apply on it in the first place?" - OP states that this particular company has approached him (due to his CV being available online), so he didn't apply.
– 3N1GM4
Dec 29 '16 at 15:17
add a comment |Â
up vote
-1
down vote
There are lots of ways to refuse an interview. However, why do you apply on it in the first place? You already know that the company has bad reputation and it was proven by your friends. You could just say that you’re not interested anymore or make an alibi that you have another interview on other companies and you don’t have the time to come on the interview.
answered Feb 5 '13 at 3:15
enzomar
591
2
"why do you apply on it in the first place?" - OP states that this particular company has approached him (due to his CV being available online), so he didn't apply.
– 3N1GM4
Dec 29 '16 at 15:17
add a comment |Â
up vote
-1
down vote
up vote
-1
down vote
There are lots of ways to refuse an interview. However, why do you apply on it in the first place? You already know that the company has bad reputation and it was proven by your friends. You could just say that you’re not interested anymore or make an alibi that you have another interview on other companies and you don’t have the time to come on the interview.
answered Feb 5 '13 at 3:15
enzomar
591
There are lots of ways to refuse an interview. However, why do you apply on it in the first place? You already know that the company has bad reputation and it was proven by your friends. You could just say that you’re not interested anymore or make an alibi that you have another interview on other companies and you don’t have the time to come on the interview.
answered Feb 5 '13 at 3:15
enzomar
591
answered Feb 5 '13 at 3:15
enzomar
591
answered Feb 5 '13 at 3:15
enzomar
591
answered Feb 5 '13 at 3:15
enzomar
591
591
2
"why do you apply on it in the first place?" - OP states that this particular company has approached him (due to his CV being available online), so he didn't apply.
– 3N1GM4
Dec 29 '16 at 15:17
add a comment |Â
2
"why do you apply on it in the first place?" - OP states that this particular company has approached him (due to his CV being available online), so he didn't apply.
– 3N1GM4
Dec 29 '16 at 15:17
2
2
"why do you apply on it in the first place?" - OP states that this particular company has approached him (due to his CV being available online), so he didn't apply.
– 3N1GM4
Dec 29 '16 at 15:17
"why do you apply on it in the first place?" - OP states that this particular company has approached him (due to his CV being available online), so he didn't apply.
– 3N1GM4
Dec 29 '16 at 15:17
add a comment |Â
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40
"No, thank you."
– jcmeloni
Jan 20 '13 at 15:41
12
You really can overthink some things - "No, thank you" is all that is needed.
– Matt
Jan 21 '13 at 7:29
1
Why don't you want to say what you really think of them? Maybe it'll make them think.
– pdr
Jan 21 '13 at 10:56
They don't need a reason. Simply say what jcmeloni stated.
– DA.
Feb 5 '13 at 3:47
Besides "no, thank you", I don't see any problems saying you've heard a lot of negative opinions about the company without going into details. What's the sense in concealing this? Do you think they will feel bad?
– sharptooth
Feb 5 '13 at 12:52