It’s a long process to apply for positions, interview and receive a job offer. Often times it is not until the third or forth interview that an offer is made for a position. As great and thrilling as an offer can be, sometimes it has to be turned down.

It can be quiet uncomfortable having to turn an offer down and in moments feel like you are letting other people down or have wasted their time interviewing, etc. To avoid the awkwardness it’s always best to be as transparent as possible. State what you would need to accept the position and if those needs cannot be met, thank them for their time and continue applying elsewhere.

We’ve outlined a few reasons you might just need to turn down an offer:

Finances.

Employment is for compensations. You work to earn money or goods that are the tools needed to live a sustainable life. It is best to create a budget and know what your bottom line of compensation is to take a job.

Flexibility.

Is having a flexible schedule a deal breaker for you? If your kids get sick and need to be picked up from school, can your work schedule accommodate that? If not, this job might not be the one for you. Likewise, we all have situations and needs outside of work that arise, it’s important to have a company culture that supports your work and lifestyle- whatever that might be. Ask questions and have a clear understanding of the guidelines for each employee and decide if it accommodates all your needs, within reason.

Advancement.

Know upfront what the opportunity for advancement is. Is this company looking to grown and further develop your skills and position, or will this position remain close to the same forevermore? Determine your career goals and find a position that runs closely with those goals. It’s never a shame to turn an offer down due to little or no possibility of advancement, likewise, to turn an offer down because other areas of life consume your time and you are not looking to further advance your career with this position if the opportunity was available.