Your guide on how you can ask for an extension on a job offer

With any career move comes the need to think carefully about any job offers. But business moves quickly, and hiring managers will be looking for a quick answer when they offer you a job. Asking for an extension on a job offer can be tricky. The good news is that with a little finesse and professionalism, you can ask for an extension on a job offer and keep your relationship with your potential employer on a good note.

In this guide, we will cover:

• 5 Reasons to request an extension on a job offer

• Creating a job offer response timeline

• Tips (with examples!) for requesting an extension

5 Reasons to request an extension on a job offer

Asking for more time to decide on a job offer may seem risky. You may be worried the employer will move on to another candidate or that you’ll be starting on the wrong foot. However, there are several legitimate reasons why asking for more time is a good idea. 

Five reasons are:

1. Other pending offers. If you are waiting to hear back from other employers, you may need more time to consider all your offers to ensure you make the best decision.

2. Future interviews or other commitments. Likewise, you may need to ask for an extension when you have other interviews already scheduled. Certain personal commitments, such as a family event/vacation, could also require additional time for consideration. 

3. Negotiation preparation. You don’t always have to take the first offer you’ve been given. Sometimes, it pays to negotiate with a potential employer. Asking for more time to consider the offer allows you to research the position and benefits thoroughly to ensure you are getting the best offer possible.

4. Relocation considerations. Jobs that require you to relocate also deserve careful consideration. Since there is a lot involved in moving, you must have the means of making the move and decide if the transition will be worth the time and money.

5. Counteroffer from your current employer. Deciding to leave your current job for a new one always comes with risks. Whenever you receive a counteroffer from your employer, take time to consider it.

Benefits of asking for an extension

Just as there are many reasons to ask for an extension, there are also several benefits to taking your time to consider a job offer. Along with giving you more time, it helps ensure you don’t become instantly unhappy in your new role or cause you to regret accepting the offer.  You get time to negotiate the terms of your employment and also discuss the opportunity with important family members who may be affected when you take a new job. It allows you to further research the company to ensure it is the right fit for your goals. 

Lastly, you’ll be able to determine if your potential employer is flexible and understanding.

How long can I ask for an extension on a job offer?

Naturally, a hiring manager is looking to get a new employee started as soon as possible. So, they will be expecting an answer from you quickly when they present a job offer. The most common extension request is 24 hours, and the majority of employers will gladly offer that amount of time.

When more thorough consideration is needed, asking for a three to four day extension is also acceptable. However, in this instance, you should provide a valid reason as to why you need it. This could mean you are obligated to provide your potential employer with more information than you want.

In some extreme cases, such as with medical procedures, you may need even longer to reach a decision. However, asking for more than one week is challenging, and many hiring managers will not want to wait this long.

Tips (with examples!) for making a request

When making your request, the ultimate goal is to stay professional, honest, and straightforward. Even if it means telling your potential employer that you have another job offer, they will appreciate your transparency. However, you shouldn’t ask for more time than you reasonably need to make a decision.

Once you have agreed on a timeline, stick to it. Don’t keep your hiring manager waiting for your response. Otherwise, they may worry you aren’t the right employee for their position, or that you aren’t interested in the role. Above all, be appreciative of their understanding and for granting an extension. Always let them know you are still interested in the position.

Also, you should make your request appropriately depending on the means of communication. Here are three examples you can customize to fit your situation:

Requesting an extension on a job offer via email:

Requesting an extension on a job offer via phone:

"Hi [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I hope you’re doing well. I want to touch base regarding the job offer you extended to me for the [Position Title]. I’m excited about the opportunity but need some additional time to make a decision. I want to ensure I make the best decision for both of us. Would it be possible to have 48 hours to respond to this offer? The reason for my extension request is [briefly explain your reason for needing more time]. Thank you again for the offer, and I’m happy to answer any questions you may have."

Requesting an extension on a job offer in person:

On the rare occasion that you are offered a job on the spot, you should know how to handle asking for an extension ahead of time. Here’s a sample of a response you might use when making this request directly following an interview:

"I appreciate the opportunity to discuss the [Position Title] role, and I’m excited to consider the offer. I want to discuss the timeline for making a decision because I want to give it thorough consideration. Would it be possible for me to have 48 hours to respond? I’m fully committed to this opportunity and want to ensure I’m making an informed decision."

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Key takeaways

1. Carefully considering a job offer to ensure it aligns with your career goals is essential and one reason you should ask for an extension.

2. There are many legitimate reasons for needing to ask for an extension, but it is important to be honest with your potential employer.

3. When making your request, always stay professional and grateful for the opportunity and practice timely communication.