Template for Thank-You Email After Rejection

A thank-you email after rejection is a professional message sent to express gratitude to an employer or recruiter after receiving a job rejection. Sending a well-crafted thank-you email rejection shows maturity, professionalism, and keeps doors open for future opportunities.

For empowered women pursuing career success, mastering professional emails can lead to valuable opportunities.

Even if you didn’t get the role, following up graciously demonstrates resilience, appreciation for the process, and a desire to maintain a positive relationship. This guide will walk you through key elements, best practices, and sample templates for writing effective thank-you emails after rejection.

Key Elements / Guidelines

When writing a thank-you email after rejection, include these core elements:

• Greeting: Address the recipient politely.
  Example: “Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],”

• Express Gratitude: Thank them for the opportunity to interview or apply.
  Example: “Thank you for considering me for the [Position Name] role.”

• Acknowledge Rejection: Politely acknowledge the outcome without sounding negative.
  Example: “While I’m disappointed by the outcome, I appreciate the time you took to review my application.”

• Reinforce Interest (Optional): Express continued interest in the company or future opportunities.
  Example: “I remain very interested in [Company Name] and hope to be considered for future roles that match my skills.”

• Closing Statement: End professionally and courteously.
  Example: “Thank you again for your time and consideration. I hope we can stay in touch.”

• Signature: Include your full contact information.
  Example: “[Your Name]
  [Email Address]
  [LinkedIn Profile]”

Check out more thank-you email templates.

Tips / Do’s and Don’ts

Do’s:

• Send promptly: Within 24–48 hours of receiving the rejection.

• Keep it professional: Stay positive, polite, and concise.

• Personalize: Reference the role or discussion during the interview.

• Express interest in future opportunities: Shows continued enthusiasm for the company.

Don’ts:

• Don’t be negative or emotional: Avoid frustration or complaints.

• Don’t ask why you were rejected: Focus on gratitude and professionalism.

• Avoid long emails: Keep it concise and to the point.

Check out template for thank-you email after networking event.

Sample Templates

Here are three professional thank-you email after rejection templates:

1. General Job Rejection

Subject: Thank-You for the Opportunity

Dear [Hiring Manager Name],

Thank you for considering me for the [Position Name] role. While I’m disappointed by the outcome, I greatly appreciate the time you took to review my application and speak with me during the interview process.

I remain very interested in [Company Name] and hope to be considered for future roles that match my skills. Thank you again for your time and consideration.

Best regards,
[Your Name]
[Email Address]
[LinkedIn Profile]

2. Post-Interview Rejection

Subject: Appreciated the Opportunity to Interview

Hi [Hiring Manager Name],

I wanted to thank-you for the opportunity to interview for the [Position Name] role. I truly valued learning more about [Company Name] and discussing [specific topic/role responsibility].

Although I was not selected, I appreciate the feedback and hope we can stay in touch for potential opportunities in the future.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Email Address]
[LinkedIn Profile]

Check out thank-you email template for meeting.

3. Rejection with Future Interest

Subject: Thank-You for Your Consideration

Hello [Hiring Manager Name],

Thank you for the update regarding the [Position Name] position. While I’m naturally a bit disappointed, I truly appreciate the chance to interview and learn more about [Company Name].

I am very interested in your organization and would welcome any future opportunities that align with my experience and skills. Thank you again for your time and consideration.

Best regards,
[Your Name]
[Email Address]
[LinkedIn Profile]

Formatting Tips

• Font & Size: Professional fonts like Arial or Calibri, 11–12pt.

• Paragraphs: Keep it 2–3 short paragraphs.

• Tone: Positive, professional, and courteous.

• Email Signature: Include name, email, and LinkedIn for easy contact.

• Proofread: Ensure grammar, punctuation, and clarity.

Check out thank-you email template for help at work.

FAQs

When should I send a thank-you email after rejection?

Send within 24–48 hours to demonstrate professionalism and gratitude.

What should I include in a thank-you email rejection?

Express appreciation, acknowledge the outcome, and optionally show interest in future opportunities.

Can I ask for feedback in the email?

It’s better to avoid asking immediately; focus on expressing gratitude and professionalism.

How long should the email be?

Keep it concise—2–3 short paragraphs are ideal.

Is personalization important?

Yes, referencing the role or specific discussion shows sincerity and attentiveness.

Conclusion

A thoughtful thank-you email after rejection reinforces professionalism, leaves a positive impression, and keeps doors open for future opportunities. Following these templates and best practices ensures your thank-you email rejection messages are polished, sincere, and memorable.

Explore more professional email templates on MsCareerGirl.com and bookmark this guide to navigate career setbacks gracefully and professionally.