Postpone Start Date New Job Email Sample: How to Request A Delay

As exciting as landing a new job can be, there may be moments when unforeseen circumstances arise that force you to delay your start date. Whether you’re awaiting the resolution of a current project or dealing with a family emergency, it’s important to communicate your situation clearly to your new employer. Here, we provide you with a postponement start date new job email sample that you can use as a guide to craft your own message. Additionally, we’ve included several examples that you can edit as needed to make sure your message effectively conveys your situation and maintains a positive relationship with your new employer. In true Tim Ferriss style, we’ll help you be efficient and effective in your communication and leave you more time to tackle other priorities.

The Best Structure for Postpone Start Date New Job Email Sample

When it comes to postponing the start date for your new job, it’s important to do it the right way. Failing to communicate properly could lead to negative consequences and potentially even harm your professional reputation. That’s why it’s crucial to use the right structure for your email when requesting a postponement.

The first thing to consider is the tone of your email. It should be polite and professional, but also sincere and genuine. Remember that your employer is likely also affected by the postponement and may have already taken steps to prepare for your start. Showing understanding and gratitude for their patience and flexibility is key.

Start your email by expressing sincere thanks for the opportunity and excitement for the position. Then, apologize for any inconvenience or disruption your request for a postponement may cause. Be specific about the reason for the delay, whether it’s a personal matter, unexpected event, or unforeseen circumstances, and explain why it’s happening now.

After the explanation, propose a new start date that you think would work for both you and your employer. Make sure to leave some wiggle room for negotiation or adjustment, but also stay firm with the date you propose. You don’t want to appear indecisive or uncommitted, but you also can’t risk setting a date you won’t be able to meet.

In conclusion, the best structure for a postpone start date new job email sample is to maintain a professional yet sincere tone, express gratitude and apologies, explain the reason for the delay, propose a new start date while being flexible, and stay committed to your word. By following this structure and practicing effective communication, you will be able to postpone your start date in a way that preserves your relationship with your employer and maintains your professional reputation.

7 Postpone Start Date New Job Email Samples

Sample 1: Injury

Dear [Employer’s Name],

I am writing to inform you that I will need to postpone the start date for my new job as Marketing Executive at [Company Name]. Unfortunately, I recently sustained an injury which requires me to undergo physical rehabilitation and restricts my mobility. As a result, I am unable to perform the tasks outlined in my job description until I fully recover.

I recognize the inconvenience this may cause, but I would greatly appreciate your understanding and willingness to delay my employment until I am in better physical health.

Thank you for your consideration. I hope to hear from you soon regarding rescheduling my start date.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Sample 2: Personal Reasons

Dear [Employer’s Name],

I am writing to request a postponement of my start date as the [Job Title] at [Company Name]. Unfortunately, I am facing some personal circumstances which make it difficult for me to start as planned.

I understand that this may cause an inconvenience, and I apologize for the short notice. However, I firmly believe that addressing these personal issues would allow me to focus better on my work and be a more productive team member for the company in the long term.

I would be very grateful if we could discuss possible options for rescheduling my start date, and I am happy to provide any additional information you may need.

Thank you for your understanding and support.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Sample 3: Family Emergency

Dear [Employer’s Name],

I am writing to request a postponement of my start date at [Company Name] due to a family emergency that requires my immediate attention. Unfortunately, these unforeseen circumstances have left me with no other option but to ask for a delay in my joining date.

I understand that this may cause inconvenience to the company, and I apologize for any disruption or delays this may create in your work processes. However, I am confident that addressing this emergency is essential for me to transition smoothly into my new role and be fully committed and available for the company.

Thank you for your understanding and support during this challenging time. Please let me know if there are any possible options to reschedule my start date.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Sample 4: Visa Processing Delays

Dear [Employer’s Name],

I am writing to inform you of the unexpected delay in my visa processing, which prevents me from joining [Company Name] on my scheduled start date. The visa processing office has informed me that due to unforeseen circumstances, they are experiencing a backlog in processing applications, and I will need to wait for an unspecified period for my visa to be cleared.

I understand the inconvenience my delay may cause, and I am actively working to expedite the process as much as possible. In the meantime, I would appreciate your understanding and cooperation in postponing my start date until I receive the necessary clearance to travel and work in [Country Name].

Thank you for your support and patience during this situation. Please let me know if you require any further information or documentation from my end.

Kind regards,

[Your Name]

Sample 5: Unforeseeable Conflict

Dear [Employer’s Name],

I am writing to request a postponement of my start date at [Company Name] due to an unforeseeable conflict that has arisen. Unfortunately, the sudden development of this conflict has left me with no other option but to seek your understanding and flexibility in delaying my employment start date.

Please accept my apologies for any inconvenience this may cause. However, I am confident that resolving this unexpected situation would allow me to start my new job with a clear and focused mind, ready to give my best effort to your esteemed organization.

Thank you for your patience and support in this matter, and I look forward to discussing alternative start date arrangements with you soon.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Sample 6: Relocation Hiccups

Dear [Employer’s Name],

I am writing to inform you that I will not be able to start my new job as [Job Title] as planned due to some hiccups in my relocation process. Unfortunately, unexpected issues with my rental contracts have caused a delay in moving, which will prevent me from being in [City Name] on the agreed date.

I realize the inconvenience this may cause, and I apologize for the delay. Please know that I am working proactively to resolve this issue and ensure that I fulfill my responsibilities to the best of my abilities once I start working with your company.

Thank you for your flexibility and understanding. Please let me know if there is anything I can do in the meantime to support the team remotely or assist with work projects.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Sample 7: Medical Reasons

Dear [Employer’s Name],

I am writing to request a postponement of my start date at [Company Name] due to medical reasons. Unfortunately, a recent health check-up revealed some previously undetected medical issues that need immediate attention. I need to undergo a series of tests and follow-up appointments that overlap with my employment start date.

Please accept my sincerest apologies for this unexpected delay. I understand your company is looking forward to my contribution, but I assure you that my health and wellbeing are top of my priority list. I would like to request a new starting date that I hope we can agree upon in the coming weeks.

I am confident that I will be able to start work soon and give my best to the company once my medical situation stabilizes. Thank you for your co-operation and understanding.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Postpone Start Date: Tips for Emailing a New Job

Delaying the start date of a new job can be a daunting task. However, it’s important to take the necessary time to ensure you’re ready to tackle a new job and give it your best shot. Here are some tips to help you craft a well-written email requesting a postponed start date.

Be honest and specific: In your email, explain the reasons for requesting a postponed start date. If you need more time to finish a project or handle a personal matter, be honest and specific. Avoid vague statements that may create confusion. This will help your new employer understand your situation and provide the necessary support.

Offer a solution: Don’t just indicate a future start date; offer a solution that will suit both you and your new employer. Suggest a new start date or a compromise that works best for both parties. You want to reassure your new employer that you’re committed to the role and the company.

Apologize: Be respectful and apologize for any inconvenience caused. Remember, your new employer may have arranged schedules and resources based on your original start date. Showing appreciation for their flexibility can help strengthen the relationship.

Keep it professional: Even if you’ve developed a friendly rapport with your new employer, keep the email to the point and professional. Avoid being too personal or disclosing too much information that is irrelevant. Keep it formal and respectful, aligning with the tone of professional communication.

Reassure your commitment: Finally, close your email with positive and reassuring language that demonstrates your excitement for the role. Let your new employer know that you’re fully committed to the role, and the postponement of the start date won’t affect your enthusiasm and dedication.

In summary, be honest and specific, offer a solution, apologize, keep it professional, and reassure your commitment. These tips can help you craft a well-written email and ensure a positive and professional relationship with your new employer, even if the start date needs to be delayed.

Postpone Start Date New Job Email Sample FAQs


What is a postpone start date new job email?

A postpone start date new job email is a communication sent by a new employee to their employer to request a change in the start date of their new job.

Why would someone need to send a postpone start date new job email?

Someone may need to send a postpone start date new job email if they have personal or medical emergencies, conflicts with their current employer, or difficulties with relocation.

What should be included in a postpone start date new job email?

A postpone start date new job email should include the reason for the delay, a new proposed start date, the job title, and the name of the employer and hiring manager.

When should someone send a postpone start date new job email?

Someone should send a postpone start date new job email as soon as possible to give the employer enough time to find a replacement if necessary.

How should someone write a postpone start date new job email?

Someone should write a postpone start date new job email in a polite and professional tone, explaining the reason for the delay and offering a new proposed start date.

How should someone follow up after sending a postpone start date new job email?

Someone should follow up with a phone call to make sure that the employer received the email and to discuss any further details or questions related to the new proposed start date.

What are the consequences of not sending a postpone start date new job email?

The consequences of not sending a postpone start date new job email can vary depending on the employer and their policies, but it can lead to job termination, legal issues, or difficulty finding employment in the future.

Thanks for Stopping By!

I hope you found this article on postponing the start date of a new job helpful. Remember, it’s important to be honest and professional in your communication with your new employer. And don’t worry, sometimes unexpected circumstances arise and it’s perfectly normal to need to adjust your start date. Thanks for reading and come back soon for more useful tips and advice!