How to Ask for Time to Consider a Job Offer (Example Letter)

Getting a desired job offer is what most job-seekers crave. However, in most situations, you don't want to accept a job offer at the drop of a hat. You need to evaluate a new job carefully, study the formal contract, and see if it is good for your career path.

Most employers understand your need to consider a job offer, and are ready to give you a few extra days. However, you should approach the hiring manager with respect and professionalism when asking to give you more time.

In this article, we will explain how to ask for time to consider a job offer from a potential employer and share a sample email letter.

Why ask for more time to consider a job offer?

According to a survey by LinkedIn, when considering job offers, candidates take into account compensation (49%) and professional growth (33%). 35% of job-seekers are ready to turn down an offer if the company doesn't offer remote work opportunities.

There are a number of reasons why you might need more time to consider an offer. Here are just some of them:

• You have multiple job offers. If you are lucky enough to hold two or more offers from different companies, you need extra time to compare the options you have and decide which one suits you best.
• You are unsure about the position. To pursue your best interest, you need to completely understand all terms in the contract. If you still have questions about the work style, culture, or want to negotiate a higher salary and benefits offered, contact the hiring manager and schedule a call to bring up all these issues.
• The job involves a huge life change. If the dream job implies relocation, or you'll need to work in the office after three years of remote work, you'll want to give it extra consideration. Consult your family and friends, and think it over carefully.
• You hope for a counter-offer. If you would like to receive a counteroffer from your current employer, you will need additional time to discuss it with your boss and get their response.

When asking hiring managers to give you more time, keep in mind that they also have other candidates so you shouldn't keep them waiting for too long.

How much extra time can you ask for?

The common industry standard is to ask to give you 2-3 business days before you give the final answer to the employer. This time frame is usually enough to weigh all the pros and cons of the company and the position without keeping the employer waiting.

In the rare cases listed above you can ask for more time, but usually no more than a week. Otherwise, the hiring manager might assume that you aren't much interested in the opportunity.

Anyway, it is best to clarify the specific deadline. Send them the email wondering how much time you have to evaluate a job offer and get back to them with a response. It will keep the hiring process transparent for you and the employer.

If you are applying for jobs via email, follow these professional tips on what to write in a resume email.

How to request time to consider an offer?

Most job offers are made verbally (in-person and on the phone) with a follow-up formal offer delivered to you via email. If you received a verbal offer, you need to accept it and mention that you will need two to three days to consider the details. If you don't give a positive response in the first place, the hiring manager will assume you're not interested.

After receiving a formal offer by email, follow these tips when asking for additional time:

Show appreciation

You've moved far in the interview process, so be sure to show appreciation and gratitude for the offer. Mention something you specifically like about the position or the company, and show you're excited about the opportunity to contribute.

Here are some examples:

• Thank you for an amazing opportunity to join the XYZ Company's R&D department...
• I am truly excited about joining your Business Development team...
• Thank you for offering me a Senior Accountant position...

Mention why you need more time

After showing gratitude, specify why you need enough time to consider a job offer in detail. Be honest. If you have questions about the prospective team or salary, or have another offer you're considering, you can bring it up and start negotiating. However, it is also acceptable to simply state that you need more time.

Here is how to do it.

• I would need some time to carefully consider what the job requires and the benefits offered.
• I have some family issues to consider before giving a final answer.

Ask how much time you have

Ask the hiring manager when they expect a final response from you, or suggest a time frame that works for you. Thus, you will avoid ambiguity in communication and give them clarity.

Here are the examples:

• Could I get back to you on Friday with my final decision?
• When do you need an answer?

Communicate any questions and concerns

If you have any specific concerns, address them when responding to a formal offer letter. For example, you can ask about the possibility of working remotely, more free days off, or negotiate a higher salary. If you are a good fit, most hiring managers would be interested to discuss the terms of cooperation to have you on the team.

Stay professional

Format your letter professionally. Start with a formal salutation, then give your response in 1-2 paragraphs, and use a professional closure. Proofread the letter before sending it - during the interview process, each tiny detail contributes to an overall impression about you.

Example letter asking for more time to consider an offer

Dear [Hiring manager's name],

Thank you for an exciting opportunity to join the XYZ Company as a Research Analyst. I truly appreciate your time and consideration throughout the interview process and would be eager to contribute to attaining your marketing goals.

However, I would like to request a few more days to carefully consider the offer and discuss relocation with my family. Could I get back to you on Monday to provide my final decision?

Thank you again for your understanding. I look forward to joining your team.

Sincerely,

Lisa Hamilton

Key things to consider when evaluating a job offer

To make an informed decision and join the company that aligns with your preferences and long-term goals, be sure to consider these factors:

• Terms of contract. Is it a full-time, contract, or temporary position? How many hours are you expected to work per week? What are the working conditions and can you work remotely? Consider these issues carefully as your well-being depends on them.
• Your responsibilities. Are the responsibilities the same as discussed during the job interview? Understand exactly what you'll be responsible for, and check if this aligns with your career goals.
• Salary and bonuses. Salary shouldn't be your biggest concern. However, if it is lower than you had in your previous role, you will feel uncomfortable and frustrated. Be sure to negotiate a salary that is comfortable for you and clarify what bonuses you're eligible for.
• Company culture. Is there a formal culture with lots of restrictions, or is everything casual and laid-back? If the company culture doesn't fit your working style, you will struggle to find common ground with your boss and coworkers.
• Potential for growth. Does the company offer training, workshops, and compensation for education? Are there opportunities for professional growth and promotion?
• Compare it with other jobs. If you have other job offers at hand, weigh their pros and cons to choose the one that has the best terms for you. Moreover, mentioning that you have another offer can help you negotiate better terms.

Last but not least, don't underestimate the importance of likability. According to Harvard Business Review, people will fight for you only if they like you. In other words, if the company truly likes you, you can negotiate a better offer. If you aren't their top candidate, any request for more time and better terms will be seen negatively.

What not to do when asking for more time?

If you need more time to consider a job offer, avoid responding with these phrases:

• "Thank you, I will consider it". Sending a one-line email in response to a formal job offer is unprofessional. Plus, you should give a time frame so that the recruiter knows when to expect your response.
• "Can I get back to you in a week or two?" Asking for more than a week can be seen as a lack of interest in a position. In such a situation, the employer can decide to hire another candidate.
• "I thought the job would pay more". If you are happy about the position but the salary is below your expectations, suggest negotiating it with the hiring manager and explain why you deserve a higher pay.
• "I'm not sure if I like the job". When you are in doubt about the opportunity, don't say it explicitly. Just mention that you need to think things through, and get back to them with a response.

Key Takeaways:

• Taking more time to consider a job offer carefully is understandable. Most employers are willing to give you from 2-3 days to one week.
• Send a polite letter asking for more time within 24 hours of receiving a formal job offer. Specify when you will give them a final response.
• If you have any questions concerning the job offer, terms of contract, or salary/benefits, address them to the hiring manager before accepting an offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it normal to ask for more time to consider an offer?

It is completely okay to be allotted time to consider the offer. Changing the job is a big decision, and it is not always possible to make it on the spot. Most employers are willing to give you 2-3 days to respond, but usually no more than a week.

What to do if an employer pressures you for a quick decision?

There are different situations in hiring. When a company needs an employee urgently, they usually make it clear at the beginning of the hiring process. If you feel that the hiring manager pressures you to make a decision today or immediately, it can be a sign of unhealthy company culture.

How to ask for time when you receive a verbal job offer?

The strategy to ask for more time looks as follows. Thank the hiring manager for their offer and show that you'd be excited to join the company and the team. Then, mention why you need more time to give a final response, and ask for a few extra days to think carefully.

What if you have other job offers?

If you have multiple job offers, it is best to mention it when asking for more time. Specify that you have offers from other companies as well, and you need a few days to decide which one would be best for your career development. If the company is truly interested in you, they can offer a better salary or benefits at this point.

Want a resume that impresses the hiring manager?

Your resume is the #1 document for a successful job search. If it effectively lists your strengths, skills, and projects, you will receive more interviews and offers than other qualified candidates. At ResumePerk, we can update your resume's design, content, and writing style to make it more appealing to employers. Chat with us today!