How to Ask for Time to Consider a Job Offer (2022)

Here's how to ask for time to consider a job offer. After you've got a job offer, you should give it some thought before committing to your new company. In this circumstance, knowing how to ask for time can help you stay professional throughout the recruiting process.

Why should you request time to think about a job offer?

It would help if you had a compelling cause for requesting time to examine a job offer. You won't waste your time or the recruiting manager's time if you have a reason.

Remember that if you are not compelled to give them a reason, you require further time to review their offer.

Here are some reasons to ask for more time to think over a job offer:

If you're not sure about the job. It would help if you declined the employment offer. Allow yourself some time to consider your options if you have a gut sense. It's preferable to ask for more time than to take a position you're not convinced about. This reaction will prevent you from changing your mind and refusing the job once you've accepted it.

If you're looking at alternative work opportunities. If you're interviewing at numerous organizations or have various job offers, request additional time from the hiring manager so you can make a strategic and well-informed decision. This analysis allows you to study and compare each employment offer, making it easier to select which ones to accept and which ones to reject.

If you want to spend more time researching the company and the job. The extra time allows you to conduct sufficient study while also considering what it would be like to work for the organization and the salary package on offer. Even if you have a decent knowledge of the work and the organization, requesting additional time allows you to make sure you're ready to commit to the job.

If you find yourself in a situation where you need to relocate. Because the relocation will have an impact on everyone in your home, it's critical to make sure it's worthwhile for all parties involved. If the work necessitates relocating, you should request extra time to talk with your spouse and family.

When it comes to considering a job offer, how much time should you ask for?

Prospective workers are given varying lengths of time to accept a job offer. Frequently, the offer letter or email specifies a period. In most cases, two to three days are sufficient to examine the employment offer.

You can only ask for a week's worth of time if you're going to ask for it. Consider a more cautious timescale if you intend to negotiate any component of the remuneration package.

What is a reasonable about of time to ask for when considering a job offer?

Like most job applicants, you're probably asking, "How much time do I have to decide?"

Requesting 48 to 72 hours, according to some recruiting managers, is acceptable.

There are, of course, exceptions. If the job requires you to relocate, work considerably different hours, or make other significant life adjustments, requesting more than 72 hours is reasonable.

But, whatever you decide, make your decision within a week, or you risk jeopardizing your prospects.

How do you ask for more time to think over a job offer?

You don't have to accept a job offer right away if it comes your way. Your potential employer may anticipate you requesting time to examine their offer. If you decide to ask for additional time, be cautious how you ask, so you don't offend the recruiting manager or risk losing the job offer entirely.

To request time to evaluate a job offer, follow these steps:

Express gratitude for the job offer.

Respond within 24 hours of getting the job offer, even if you're unsure if you want to accept it, reject it, or ask for more time.

Make a point of thanking the person for the chance. Thank them for the job offer and let them know you're still interested and enthusiastic about the opportunity.

Find out when the deadline is.

After thanking the recruiting manager, inquire about a deadline for responding to the job offer. Knowing how much time they've given you guarantees you don't risk the employment offer being rescinded if you don't respond promptly.

It also aids in determining whether or not you should request additional time.

Request extra time.

If the deadline they provide you doesn't seem long enough, ask the recruiting manager if you may get an extension.

Make sure you only do this if you have a specific reason for requesting more time, such as wanting time to confer with your family or examine alternative employment offers.

Inquire further about the opportunity.

You can ask the recruiting manager questions about the employment offer and ask for additional time. If they require time to respond, this provides you more time to think about the offer. It also aids in the clarification of any doubts or issues you may have regarding the offer or the employment. Make sure that whatever inquiry you ask clarifies the remuneration package in its totality and that you aren't just wasting time by asking these inquiries.

Related: How to Accept a Job Offer by Email

Reasons for asking for more time

While you might seek an extension for any reason you can think of, it's critical to express your curiosity, thanks, and professionalism to be considered for the position in the future. With that in mind, consider the following thoughtful and pertinent reasons for requesting extra time:

You're not sure if this is the correct job for you. If you've recently received a job offer and your first reaction is to wonder if the situation is suited for you, trust your instincts.

You received multiple job offers. While you may not believe this is a good reason to deny a job offer, remember that resigning later or declining an offer after you've accepted can make you appear far worse. Give yourself extra time to consider if the position is a suitable match by being straightforward and honest about your feelings.

You've had multiple job offers. You may receive employment offers from many employers, however, this is not usually the case. Deciding on which job to choose isn't always straightforward in this circumstance, and you'll make the greatest option when you have the time to evaluate all of the factors.

Furthermore, if employers are very interested in you, they may even give you a more competitive position if they know you're looking at other opportunities.

You're dealing with a personal matter or a situation that requires immediate attention. We are frequently confronted with difficulties or emergencies for which we were not prepared. For example, if your mother is in the hospital, your wife is pregnant, or someone close to you has died, you may be far too preoccupied and distracted to consider a job offer right immediately.

Take a breather and ask for an extension; the prospective employer will understand.

You will be required to move for this position. If you're presently residing in Texas and your new work requires you to relocate to California, it's OK to consider whether you want to make such a significant life adjustment.

You should consult with your children or other family members before making your decision, especially if you have children or other family members who need to accompany you.

Related: How to Decline a Job Offer After Accepting

What is too long of time to request to consider a job offer?

If you want to do a lot of negotiating, be careful with the amount of time you request. Two to three days usually is ample time to ponder the offer, but don't ask for more than a week as a general guideline. Whether you're rejecting a job offer, accepting one, or requesting more time, always react within 24 hours and show appreciation.

Related: How to Decline a Job Offer

Do employers understand that job seekers might need a few extra days to decide?

Yes. Most employers understand that the hiring process is not immediate. A husband may need time to review the compensation package with their spouse. Or discuss the job opportunity and what it could mean for their family.

In instances where relocation is discussed, a job seeker could have up to a week to decide.

Related: How to Tell a Potential Employer You Have Another Job

What to say when asking for more time

To establish a strong connection with the hiring manager, it's crucial to keep the dialogue upbeat when you ask for time to evaluate a job offer. Here are some phrases to use when requesting time to consider a job offer:

"Thank you very much for giving me this chance! I am excited to work with your organization and contribute to its growth. I'd want to request a few days to examine the offer fully."

"Thank you very much for the work opportunity! This is a fantastic opportunity with your firm. I'm looking forward to contributing my abilities to your firm while also continuing to advance my career. I had assumed that the position would not need travel, however, the employment offer indicates that I will be required to travel around 20% of the time. Could you explain why this has changed? I'm available to speak with you about this as soon as possible. Thank you once again!"

"Thank you very much for taking the time to read this and allowing me to work with your organization. I've been seeking a position like this for a long time. I am excited to put my abilities to good use in your company. I am grateful for the opportunity to be considered for the position, and I want to make certain that I completely comprehend the employment offer before making a significant choice. Is it feasible to react to the employment offer after a few days? Thank you once more for the chance!"

What not to say (examples)

If you don't ask for time to evaluate a job offer appropriately, you risk losing the job offer entirely. Furthermore, it may negatively influence your connection with the recruiting manager.

As a result, it's critical to avoid expressing specific things while requesting time. Here are some examples of things not to say when asking time to think about a job offer:

• "I'll get back to you."
• "I'm not certain. I'll give it some thought."
• "I expected the job to pay more."
• "I'm not sure I enjoy the job. I'll inform you."
• "I'm not sure I want the job. I'll get back to you as soon as I can."
• "I'm not sure I'm interested in the role anymore."
• "The position and the timetable do not appeal to me. Let me think about it for a while."

Related: How to Accept a Job Offer by Phone

Advice on asking to think about a job offer

When considering a job offer, a few factors to bear in mind to make an informed decision. These tips will increase your chances of landing an excellent job. Use the following guidelines to help you evaluate a job offer from a potential employer:

Consider what you're sacrificing. Consider what you're giving up with your existing employment before accepting a job offer. For example, you might be willing to forego a shorter commute or a better income in exchange for a position that offers more prospects for promotion. Before making a final decision, consider both the advantages and disadvantages.

Give a specific date. If asking for a few extra days to consider the job offer, provide the hiring manager with a deadline that you set for yourself. For example, "This is such a great opportunity. I wanted to respond right away. Could I have until Thursday to give you an answer?"

Understand the employment offer completely. Make sure you comprehend every detail of the employment offer. This analysis entails knowing your perks, vacation time, and income or hourly rate.

Examine your options for expansion. Think about if your new job will provide you with new challenges and opportunities to gain new skills. Make sure your new employer offers the chance to rise to a different position within the same firm. It is simpler to attain your long-term work goals when you have growth possibilities.