There are a few reasons why someone may want to cancel a job application after submitting it. Perhaps they applied on impulse or realized the role wasn’t actually a good fit. Maybe a better opportunity came up that they want to focus on instead. Or their circumstances changed, making the job no longer viable.
Whatever the reason, it is possible to cancel a submitted job application in many cases. However, the process depends on the stage of the hiring process and policies of the specific company. There are also some risks to consider when withdrawing an application.
Why You Might Want to Cancel an Application
Here are some common reasons someone may want to retract a job application:
- You applied on impulse without fully considering whether the role was a good fit.
- After learning more, you realized the role or company wasn’t what you expected or wanted.
- A better opportunity came up that you would rather pursue.
- You no longer need the job due to a change in personal circumstances.
- You received another offer you prefer over this role.
- The hiring process is taking too long and you cannot wait.
- You applied to too many roles and need to narrow your focus.
- You are no longer interested in leaving your current position.
- You do not want to proceed with the required interviews/assessments.
- You accepted an offer from another company.
Whatever the reason, it is best to withdraw your application as soon as you decide the role is not for you. This avoids wasting your and the employer’s time going through more screening steps.
Risks of Cancelling an Application
While cancelling a job application is an option in most cases, there are some risks and downsides to consider:
- The employer may have already invested significant time reviewing your application and feel this wasted effort.
- It can hurt your reputation and “brand” with this particular employer.
- If you applied via a referral, it may reflect poorly on the person who referred you.
- The employer may not allow you to apply again in the future.
- You may burn bridges with recruiters or contacts at that company.
- If you realise it was a mistake, you may not be able to reactivate your application.
- You lose your place in the applicant pool and have to start over later.
- It can look unprofessional or signal “cold feet” to employers.
Carefully consider if withdrawing is worth these potential consequences. If you do cancel, communicate professionally to preserve your reputation as much as possible.
When to Cancel an Application
The stage at which you want to cancel an application affects your options:
Before Submitting
If you have not yet hit “submit” on an application, there is no need to cancel it. Simply do not apply. If needed, you can contact the employer or recruiter to say you have decided not to apply but there is no formal withdrawal required.
After Applying Before Interview
If you have applied but not yet interviewed, the best approach is to contact the hiring manager or recruiter directly. Politely explain that you are withdrawing from consideration and appreciate their time reviewing your application.
This causes the least disruption for the employer while preserving relationships for the future. Be sure to get written confirmation of your withdrawn application.
After Interviewing
If you have already interviewed for the position, withdrawing becomes more complicated. The employer has invested more time and resources into considering you.
Still, it is best to notify them directly that you are no longer interested. Explain your reasons professionally without burning bridges. Depending on their policies, they may still consider you for future roles.
After Receiving Offer
Withdrawing after receiving a job offer can significantly damage your reputation with the employer. But if you have good reason to change your mind, all you can do is politely decline the offer in writing.
State that you appreciate the offer but will have to rescind your candidacy. Offer your apologies for the inconvenience and say you hope to be considered for future opportunities.
How to Withdraw Your Application
Here are the main methods for politely and professionally cancelling a job application:
Email the Company or Recruiter
The most common approach is to send an email to the hiring manager, recruiter, or talent acquisition representative who has been in contact with you.
Keep the email concise. State that you are withdrawing from consideration for [position] at [company]. Offer brief reasons if you feel comfortable sharing them.
Thank them for their time and consideration. Say you hope to be considered for future opportunities if applicable. Request confirmation that they have record of your withdrawn application.
Call the Company
You can withdraw via a phone call, which some may see as more polite than an impersonal email. Ask to speak with the person who has been your contact throughout the hiring process.
Let them know you are calling to withdraw your application and will no longer be moving forward. Offer to also send written confirmation via email if they would like.
Use Application Tracking System
Many companies use online applicant tracking systems or recruitment platforms. You may be able to directly withdraw your application by logging into the system.
Look for options like “Withdraw Application” or contact the recruiter about removing yourself from consideration.
Talk to Your Referral Contact
If you applied through an employee referral, contact that employee first. Explain your reasons for withdrawing and ask if they can pass this along to the hiring team.
This allows your referral contact to handle communicating the withdrawal smoothly.
What to Include in a Withdrawal Email
If emailing, here are key details to cover:
- Subject line indicating this is to withdraw your application.
- Name the position and company you are withdrawing from.
- Direct it to the specific person who has been your contact.
- State clearly that you are withdrawing from consideration.
- If comfortable, briefly explain the reasons why.
- Thank the recipient for their time and consideration.
- Say you hope to be considered for future opportunities if applicable.
- Request confirmation that your application has been withdrawn.
- Optionally attach a formal withdrawal letter on company letterhead.
Keep the tone polite, complimentary, and professional even if disappointed or annoyed. Do not burn bridges in case you ever wish to apply again.
Can a Withdrawal Be Reversed?
In most cases, withdrawing an application is permanent. The employer will move ahead considering other candidates.
However, if you change your mind shortly after withdrawing, you may be able to reverse it if:
- The employer has not yet formally rejected your application.
- They have not yet filled the position.
- You can convincingly explain why you want to reactivate your application.
- The employer is willing to consider you again.
Do not assume you can reverse a withdrawal – ask first. Contact the hiring manager, explain the situation, and request they reactivate your application.
But prepare for them to decline and move ahead hiring someone else. Once withdrawn, your chances are likely gone.
Conclusion
Canceling a job application is possible in most cases but should be handled carefully. Before submitting, simply do not apply. After applying, withdraw by emailing the hiring manager or recruiter.
The later in the process, the more difficult it becomes. Withdrawing after interviews or offers can damage your reputation.
When canceling, be direct yet polite. Explain your reasons briefly, thank them for their consideration, and do not burn bridges. In some cases you may be able to reverse a withdrawal, but expect that option only rarely.
Withdrawing is preferable to accepting an offer you will later decline. As soon as you are sure the role is not for you, cancel your application to avoid wasting the time of both parties.
Summary of Key Points
- It’s possible to cancel most job applications but the process depends on timing and policies.
- Withdrawing early causes the least disruption but later can damage your reputation.
- Notify the employer directly via email, phone call, or applicant tracking system.
- Explain briefly but remain professional and polite.
- Thank them for time spent and say you hope to apply in future if possible.
- Make sure you receive confirmation the application is withdrawn.
- Reversing a withdrawal may be difficult but you can request they reactivate your application.
Cancelling a job application should not be done lightly. Carefully consider any risks and communicate professionally to protect your reputation during the job search process.
