How to Decline A Promotion

In this article, we will walk through some example messages to inform your manager that want to decline a potential promotion.


Example Message: Decline A Promotion Due To Personal Reasons

Hi Manager Name,

I appreciate you considering me for the promotion. Due to things going on in my personal life, I think advancing my career would be difficult at this point. I would like to maintain my current position, as I am comfortable with the responsiblities and excel in it.

Best,
Your Name


Example Message: Decline A Promotion Because You Enjoy Your Current Role

Hi Manager Name,

I appreciate you considering me for the promotion. I really enjoy my current role, as I'm learning a lot on across my current set of projects. I want to continue to do this type of impactful work, but really appreciate you bringing up this topic and considering me for the new role.

Best,
Your Name


Example Message: Decline A Promotion Now But Discuss It Later

Hi Manager Name,

I appreciate you considering me for the promotion. I really enjoy my current role, as I'm learning a lot on across my current set of projects. I want to continue to do this type of impactful work in the short-term. I think it's interesting topic and something I want to explore in the future. Let's revisit the promotion topic later this year.

Best,
Your Name