Top Rejection Email Samples for Applicants: How to Write and Send Them

Dear valued readers,

Are you tired of receiving rejection emails after spending hours crafting the perfect job application? We understand how frustrating it can be to put your best foot forward, only to be met with a rejection email a few weeks later. However, the truth is, rejection is a part of the job hunting process. But it doesn’t have to be a negative experience.

We believe that rejection can be turned into an opportunity to learn and grow. That’s why we have compiled a rejection email sample for applicants that you can use as a guide when responding to job rejections. These samples cover a range of scenarios, from generic rejections to more personalized feedback.

The best part? You can edit these samples as needed to fit your specific situation and make them your own. Whether you’re thanking the employer for considering you, requesting feedback, or expressing your disappointment, our rejection email samples have got you covered.

So, if you’re looking to turn a negative experience into a positive one and learn from your job hunting journey, check out our rejection email sample for applicants. Remember, rejection is not a reflection of your worth, but an opportunity to learn, grow, and find the right fit for you.

The Best Structure for a Rejection Email Sample for Applicants

Rejection emails can be tough to write, but it’s important to remember that the recipient is a person who has invested time and effort into their application. Therefore, it’s crucial that the email is written with empathy and professionalism. By following these guidelines, you can create a rejection email sample that is informative, respectful, and empathetic.

1. Start with a gracious opening.
Your rejection email should start with a thank you to the applicant for applying and taking the time to complete the application process. You can also acknowledge the time and effort they have invested and express your appreciation for their interest in the position. By starting with gratitude, you can set a positive tone for the rest of the email.

2. Provide a clear reason for the rejection.
It’s important to give the applicant a clear explanation of why they were not selected for the position. This can help the applicant understand where they fell short and provide guidance for future applications. It’s crucial to use respectful and professional language while doing so. You don’t want to give the applicant an impression that they are not good enough.

3. Offer feedback and suggestions for improvement.
If possible, provide constructive feedback to help the applicant strengthen their application for the next time. Be honest but kind in your feedback. You can also offer suggestions on how they can hone their skills or improve their qualifications. Don’t sugarcoat it, but make sure to convey it pleasantly.

4. End with a positive note.
You want to ensure that the applicant ends the email on a positive note, despite the rejection. Express encouragement and best wishes to them on their job search and future endeavors.

Remember that rejection is difficult to handle. By creating a rejection email sample that is thoughtful, empathetic, and professional, you can ease this process for both you and the applicant. Recipients may not happy with the news, but they’ll respect the fact that you’ve made a genuine effort to be helpful.

Rejection Email Samples for Applicants

Application Not Meeting the Basic Requirements

Dear Applicant,

Thank you for taking the time to apply for the [Position] role in our company. However, after careful consideration we have decided to move forward with other applicants whose qualifications more closely align with our requirements.

We appreciate your interest in our company and encourage you to apply for other positions that fit your skills and experience. We wish you all the best in your future career endeavors.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Lack of Relevant Work Experience

Dear Applicant,

Thank you for your application for the [Position] role at our company. We were impressed by your qualifications, but unfortunately, we are looking for a candidate with more relevant work experience at this time.

We encourage you to continue gaining experience in your field, as we appreciate your skills and qualifications. We will keep your resume on file and consider you for future opportunities that may be a better fit.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Overqualified for the Position

Dear Applicant,

Thank you for your application for the [Position] role at our company. While we were impressed by your qualifications, we have decided to move forward with a candidate whose experience and skills better match the requirements of this position.

We appreciate your interest in our company, but we feel that your skills and experience exceed what we are looking for in this role. We encourage you to continue job searching and wish you success in finding the right fit for your qualifications.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Position has been filled

Dear Applicant,

Thank you for your interest in the [Position] role at our company. We received many great applications, including yours, but we have decided to move forward with another candidate.

We appreciate the time and effort you put into your application, and we wish you all the best in your future job search. We encourage you to keep an eye out for future job openings that may be of interest to you.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Not a Cultural Fit for the Company

Dear Applicant,

Thank you for your interest in the [Position] role at our company. Although we were impressed by your qualifications, we feel that you may not be the best fit for our company culture at this time.

While we appreciate your enthusiasm and desire to work with us, we believe that finding a candidate who shares our company values and work culture is essential for the success of our team.

We wish you all the best in your future job search.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Incomplete Application

Dear Applicant,

Thank you for taking the time to apply for the [Position] role at our company. Unfortunately, we cannot consider your application at this time as some sections of the application remain incomplete.

We encourage you to review and complete the required fields in the application, and then resubmit the application if you are still interested in working with us.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Failed to Pass the Pre-employment Tests

Dear Applicant,

Thank you for your application for the [Position] role at our company. We regret to inform you that, after careful consideration, we have decided not to move forward with your application because you did not pass our pre-employment assessment.

We appreciate the effort and time you put into applying for this role, but we have decided to offer the position to another candidate who we feel is a better match for our company.

We wish you all the best in your job search and encourage you to look out for other opportunities that may be a better fit.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Tips for Writing a Rejection Email for Job Applicants

Rejection emails are an inevitable part of recruiting. It is important to craft an email that doesn’t leave the candidate with a bad taste in the mouth and doesn’t impact the image of the company negatively. Here are some tips that will help you write impactful and well-received rejection emails:

  • Address the candidate by name: Start your email by directly addressing the candidate by name. This simple gesture shows that you respect the candidate and acknowledge the effort that they put into the application. It also makes the email feel less like a generic template, and more personal.
  • Be empathetic: While it can be challenging to turn down candidates, make sure you show empathy in your email. Let them know that you understand how disappointing it can be to not get the role, and thank them for taking the time to apply.
  • Provide feedback: Feedback is crucial for candidates who may have put in a great effort but still missed the mark. By providing feedback, candidates can improve themselves and have a better chance the next time around. Avoid generic statements and provide specific feedback, either on their resume or interview process.
  • Mention future opportunities: If the candidate impressed you in some way, mention that while letting them know that a different position in the company could be a better fit. This can potentially lead to a future opportunity that fits their qualifications and interests.
  • Show your appreciation: Wrapping up your email with genuine appreciation and encouragement can leave a positive impression on candidates. Thank them for their interest in the company and wish them well on their future endeavors.

By following these tips, you can turn a negative situation into a positive one and leave a lasting impression on candidates. Remember, a rejection email also reflects your company’s brand, so it is important to take the time to write a thoughtful and empathetic email.

FAQs about Rejection Email Sample for Applicants


What is a rejection email?

A rejection email is a message sent to job applicants who did not get selected for a job, stating that their application was not successful.

What should a rejection email include?

A rejection email should include a polite and respectful tone, a brief explanation of the reason for rejection, and a thank you for applying.

How should I respond to a rejection email?

You don’t need to respond to a rejection email, but if you decide to, it should be a brief message thanking the company for considering your application and expressing your continued interest in future opportunities.

Will a rejection email always provide feedback on my application?

No, not always. Some companies choose not to provide feedback due to the high volume of applicants they receive.

Can I request feedback after receiving a rejection email?

Yes, it is possible to follow up with the company and request feedback. However, keep in mind that they may not have the time or resources to give individual feedback to every applicant.

Does receiving a rejection email mean that I am not qualified for the job?

Not necessarily. There could be a variety of reasons why an applicant is not selected for the position, such as a lack of experience or a better fit with another candidate.

Should I give up on applying to a company after receiving a rejection email?

No, not necessarily. Receiving a rejection email does not mean that you cannot apply to the company again in the future or apply for a different position within the company.

Cheers to the Next Step!

Well, there you have it – a sample rejection email for applicants. Although it’s never easy to reject someone, it’s important to do it in a professional manner. Providing feedback and a positive outlook for the applicant can go a long way in maintaining a good reputation as an employer. Thanks for reading this article, and we hope to see you again soon for more HR tips and tricks here at [insert blog/site name]. Best of luck to all of our job-seeking readers!