<h1>Turning Down A Job Offer Due To Lower Salary</h1><h3>There comes a time in all our career journey when declining a job offer is the best thing we can do for our career goals. Even so, declining a job offer shouldn’t ever mean burning bridges. Any employer you don’t end up working with right now is still a potential future employer or collaborator.</h3><p>Before delving into the salary negotiation or job declining process, it's vital to understand your worth in the job market. Discussing <a href="https://my.hiredly.com/advice/how-to-answer-salary-expectations?utm_medium=article&amp;utm_source=career_advice&amp;utm_campaign=how_to_turn_down_a_low_salary_job_offer_in_malaysia&amp;utm_content=freelancing_malaysia,_job_seeker,_job_opportunities" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">salary expectations</a> requires a good understanding of industry standards and how your skills, experience, and qualifications align with these standards. This knowledge not only bolsters your confidence but also strengthens your position during negotiations. If the reason for your rejection is a low salary, here’s how to politely say ‘no’ while still keeping yourself open to potential changes in the offer or future employment opportunities:</p><h2>Communication Tips for Turning Down a Low Salary Offer<img class="image_resized" style="width:70.03%;" src="https://assets.hiredly.com/cms/image_2025_01_24_141847159_a7a8709ac2.png"></h2><p>Turning down a low salary offer requires tact and professionalism. Here's how to approach this delicate situation:</p><h3>1. Take the Extra Effort</h3><p>While it's common to turn down a job offer via email, taking the extra step to call the employer can demonstrate sincerity and respect. It allows for a more personal touch and provides an opportunity for a brief discussion if needed.</p><h3>2. Express Gratitude</h3><p>Start by thanking the employer for the offer. Acknowledge the time and effort they invested in the interview process. A <a href="https://content.mycareersfuture.gov.sg/can-gratitude-contribute-career-success-10-ways-can/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>gracious tone</strong></a> sets a positive tone for the rest of the conversation.</p><h3>3. Be Honest but Diplomatic</h3><p>If the offer doesn't align with your salary expectations, be honest about it. For instance, you could mention your research into market rates for similar roles in Malaysia. Be honest about what you're actually looking for in terms of compensation. This clarity helps both parties move forward with realistic expectations.</p><h3>4. Keep the Door Open</h3><p>Rejecting a job offer doesn't have to mean <a href="https://www.allen-associates.co.uk/blog/2019/12/how-to-leave-your-job-but-keep-the-door-open" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>closing the door</strong></a> on that opportunity forever. Express your interest in future opportunities that might be a better fit in terms of compensation.</p><h3>5. Be Genuine and Wish Them Well</h3><p>Even though you're rejecting the job offer, maintain a genuine tone throughout the conversation. Express your appreciation for the opportunity and genuinely wish them well in their search for the right candidate.</p><h2>Job Offer Negotiation in Malaysia<img class="image_resized" style="width:70.33%;" src="https://assets.hiredly.com/cms/image_2025_01_24_141728732_5280bb6ed3.png"></h2><p>Sometimes, before outright rejecting an offer, there's room for negotiation. If you believe the role is a good fit but the salary is the only sticking point, consider <a href="https://my.hiredly.com/advice/understanding-salary-negotiations-in-malaysia?utm_medium=article&amp;utm_source=career_advice&amp;utm_campaign=how_to_turn_down_a_low_salary_job_offer_in_malaysia&amp;utm_content=freelancing_malaysia,_job_seeker,_job_opportunities" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">negotiating</a>. Here are some pointers:</p><p>Be Prepared: Come to the negotiation table with clear data on industry salary standards and examples of your accomplishments that justify your salary expectations.</p><p>Communicate Clearly: Articulate your salary requirements and be prepared to negotiate perks or benefits that might make a lower salary acceptable.</p><h2>Rejecting Job Offers That Don't Meet Your Salary Expectations<img class="image_resized" style="width:77.23%;" src="https://assets.hiredly.com/cms/image_2025_01_24_141634583_de10eb7925.png"></h2><p>If negotiations don’t lead to a satisfactory resolution, it’s time to decline the offer. Here’s how to do it professionally:</p><h4><strong>Act Promptly</strong></h4><p>Once you’ve made your decision, inform the employer as soon as possible. This allows them to proceed with other candidates without unnecessary delays.</p><h4><strong>Be Professional</strong></h4><p>Whether via email or phone, ensure your message is concise, polite, and professional. Acknowledge the opportunity and explain your decision respectfully.</p><hr><h4><strong>Sample Email Template</strong></h4><p><i><strong>Subject:</strong> Thank You for the Opportunity</i></p><p><i>Dear [Hiring Manager],</i></p><p><i>Thank you for offering me the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. After careful consideration, I have decided to decline the offer as it does not meet my current salary expectations.</i></p><p><i>I truly appreciate the time and effort you’ve invested throughout the interview process and the opportunity to learn more about [Company Name]. It was a pleasure discussing the role with you, and I hope to stay connected for future opportunities that might align better with my goals.</i></p><p><i>Thank you once again, and I wish you and your team continued success.</i></p><p><i>Best regards,</i><br><i>[Your Full Name]</i></p><hr><h3>Fight for fair compensation by understanding how to negotiate for a pay that you deserve. Find out more in <a href="https://my.hiredly.com/advice/understanding-salary-negotiations-in-malaysia?utm_medium=article&amp;utm_source=career_advice&amp;utm_campaign=how_to_turn_down_a_low_salary_job_offer_in_malaysia&amp;utm_content=freelancing_malaysia,_job_seeker,_job_opportunities" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">this article</a>.</h3><h3>If you’re ready to accept a job offer, here’s <a href="https://my.hiredly.com/advice/how-to-accept-a-job-offer?utm_medium=article&amp;utm_source=career_advice&amp;utm_campaign=how_to_turn_down_a_low_salary_job_offer_in_malaysia&amp;utm_content=freelancing_malaysia,_job_seeker,_job_opportunities" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">what you should do before saying ‘yes’ to your future employer</a>.</h3><hr><h3>Looking for jobs that match your skills and salary expectations? Explore opportunities on <a href="https://my.hiredly.com/jobs?utm_medium=article&amp;utm_source=career_advice&amp;utm_campaign=how_to_turn_down_a_low_salary_job_offer_in_malaysia&amp;utm_content=freelancing_malaysia,_job_seeker,_job_opportunities" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Hiredly</a> to find your perfect fit today.</h3>

You're grateful for the offer but  the salary is lower than what you expected. Find out how to decline while still keeping yourself open to future opportunities.