If the job offer you just received feels like the happy ending to your job search, you might be tempted to immediately text all your friends, pop open some champagne, and imagine a marching band celebrating this huge moment.
Or, if you already know you won’t be taking the job, you might just shrug and carry on with your day as usual. Maybe your reaction falls somewhere in between. Either way, at some point, you’ll start wondering how to respond to a job offer—the right way.
Before you celebrate or walk away, you’ll need to decide what you want to do and communicate that to the company. Even though you’re at the finish line of their hiring process, it’s important to stay professional and reply within a reasonable time frame. And obviously, ghosting an employer is never professional—no matter how many times you’ve been ghosted yourself. Here’s what to do.
Don’t stop looking just yet—check out these amazing opportunities on The Muse and keep your options open »
What the Job Offer Process Looks Like
Usually, the first offer comes over the phone or in a virtual meeting—sometimes called a “verbal offer.” But you’re not expected to give your answer right then and there, so don’t feel pressured. Take your time to think it through.
This is a job you’ll be doing five days a week, so you want to be sure. A simple “Thank you so much! I’ll get back to you soon” works perfectly. Then, follow up with your official response via email.
If there’s a deadline, they’ll typically tell you. But if they don’t, it’s okay to ask when they need your answer—especially if you’re waiting on other offers. A week is pretty standard.
After the verbal offer, you’ll get an email with the official written offer, including details about the role, compensation, and benefits. When you’re ready to respond, just reply directly to that email.
Whether you’re accepting, declining, asking for more time, or negotiating, we’ve got a breakdown of what to include in your email—plus samples you can copy. No need to start from scratch. (Just swap in your own details, obviously.)
How to Respond to a Job Offer
Besides accepting or declining, you can also negotiate or ask for more information to help you decide. Here’s what to say in each case:
How to Accept a Job Offer
If all your questions have been answered and you’re ready to say yes, the next step is emailing the recruiter or hiring manager who sent the offer. No need to stress—you’re delivering good news, and that’s always fun!
Your email should include:
- A thank-you to the recruiter or hiring manager
- Clear acceptance of the offer, including the job title and start date
- A question about next steps (like paperwork or onboarding)
Keep it brief. After sending this, you’ll usually need to sign a contract, so watch your inbox.
Accepting a Job Offer Email Example:
Hello Sade,
Thanks again for sharing the offer details with me yesterday. After reviewing everything, I’m thrilled to accept the associate product manager position. I’m really excited about this opportunity and can’t wait to join the team on September 3rd!
Please let me know what the next steps are and if there’s anything I need to sign before onboarding.
Best,
Elliot Feng
How to Decline a Job Offer
If your first instinct was to turn it down, that’s totally fine. Maybe the role isn’t the right fit, or you have another offer to consider. (Here’s how to politely decline a job offer.)
Rejection is tough, no matter which side you’re on. But even if the employer put in a lot of effort, saying “no” is just part of the process. Keep your email short, appreciative, and to the point.
What to Include:
- A thank-you for the offer and the chance to interview
- (Optional) A brief reason for declining (keep it vague—like “going in another direction”)
- A polite note to stay in touch
Declining a Job Offer Email Example:
Hello Dan,
Thank you again for the opportunity to meet the team last week. I really enjoyed learning about the communications manager role and was excited to receive the offer. After careful thought, though, I’ve decided this isn’t the right fit for my career goals right now.
It was great getting to know you, and I hope our paths cross again. Let’s stay in touch!
Sincerely,
Sofia Cabral
Read this next: How to Turn Down a Job Offer but Keep the Door Open
How to Ask for More Details About a Job Offer
Some companies give you all the details upfront—others don’t. If you need more info (like health insurance specifics) or just time to think, you’ll have to ask.
Maybe another interview went well and you’re waiting on an offer from them. Either way, be clear about what you need. If you’re waiting on another offer, let the company know—they might speed things up. If not, that offer may not have been meant to be.
Asking for More Details Email Example:
Hello Mateo,
I was really excited to get your call and the offer for the sales trainer position. I want to make a thoughtful decision, so I’d love the chance to chat with a couple more team members to get a better feel for the company culture.
Would that be possible? Also, could I get back to you by the 15th? Thanks so much for your help!
Best,
Naomi Acker
How to Negotiate a Job Offer
Negotiating salary, benefits, or remote work can feel nerve-wracking, but it’s normal—employers won’t be shocked. Most negotiating happens over the phone, but you’ll need an email to set up the conversation.
How to Structure It:
- Thank them and express enthusiasm for the role
- Mention the terms you’d like to discuss (salary, PTO, etc.)
- Request a call or meeting with a suggested time
You don’t have to say “I want to negotiate” outright. Something like “I have a few questions about the salary” gets the point across.
Negotiating a Job Offer Email Example:
Hello Nabi,
Thank you so much for offering me the people operations role. I loved meeting everyone and am excited about joining the team!
After reviewing the offer, I had a few questions—especially about the base salary and relocation process. Would you have time this week to chat? I’m free most afternoons around 1 PM.
Sincerely,
Lisa Brown
Bonus Tips for Responding to a Job Offer Email
Every email to a recruiter or hiring manager should stay professional—even after you get the offer. Here are some extra things to keep in mind:
- Reply promptly – Answer within 24 hours. If you need more time, ask for their deadline.
- Double-check details – Make sure the offer matches what was discussed (especially salary and benefits).
- Proofread – A typo-free email keeps up the good impression you made in interviews.
- Stay polite – Even if the offer is disappointing, keep it professional—especially in small industries where word travels fast.
