Congratulations! After completing extensive paperwork, and a series of interviews, you have finally received the exciting news that the company wants to hire you. Although you may have verbally accepted the terms of the job in a conversation with the hiring manager, it is a good idea to send a job acceptance letter restating the role and responsibilities. This provides a proof of record.
It is assumed that you have received the offer in writing, as well. Receiving and accepting an offer in writing allows no room for misinformation or misunderstanding. Writing a job acceptance letter is a good way to demonstrate your professionalism, express your gratitude and enthusiasm for the offer, and reconfirm your understanding of the position.
Whether in email or letter format, keep it professional. Always include the date, the hiring manager’s name and begin by expressing gratitude and enthusiasm. Be sure to review their official offer, making sure that their terms meet with your expectations. If necessary, you may want to negotiate before officially accepting their offer. Your Acceptance Letter should restate the terms, including everything agreed to. Then include a brief summary of the job description, or the company’s expectations. Include areas of the opportunity about which you are particularly enthusiastic. Make sure that the compensation offered matches your understanding, which you may also want to include in your letter, as well.
If sending your Acceptance by email, the Subject Line should be professional and clear, such as:
(Your Name) - Acceptance of Offer for (Job Title)
Otherwise, there is a basic formula for most Acceptance Letters, which includes:
It is critical for this letter that you proofread it, making sure that you do not misstate any information. The following presents a general example of a proper Letter of Acceptance:
Date
Dear (Hiring Manager’s Name)
am pleased to accept the position of (Job Title) at (Company Name)
Thank you for your confidence in my abilities and for offering me this opportunity. I’m excited to take on the new challenges that this role will bring.
As stated in the offer letter, I accept the starting salary of (Salary), and I understand that benefits will be made available to me after (X) days. (include benefits) As agreed, I will be joining the company on (Date). I also accept the terms and policies of the company as detailed in the offer letter.
Here you may want to include your understanding of the job, the position description, their requirements and expectations. You may also want to include areas about which you are particularly enthusiastic.
I look forward to starting work on (Date) and meeting my colleagues. Please let me know if there is any additional information or paperwork I need to complete before my start date.
Thank you again for this opportunity.
Signature
Another example might include:
Date
Dear (Hiring Manager),
I am writing in reference to the job offer for the position of (Job Title) dated (date) restating our conversation concerning the opportunity at (XYZ company.). With great pleasure I am happy to accept this position and appreciate your confidence in me. My start date will be (date).
As we discussed, my compensation will include (state the salary and bonus opportunities), and I will be working remotely two days a week. My package also includes the following benefits: (List benefits).
The job description aligns with my career goals, and I look forward to joining the (department) and making an immediate contribution. (Add details of the job)
I am really looking forward to working with you and your team. Thank you again for the opportunity.
Signature
Some companies may require you to sign their own Offer Letter. Before signing, make sure that the salary and terms you previously discussed are the same as in their letter. Confirm that you know whether there is a probationary period. Also, check for non-competes, NDA’s, and vacation days. If you are an experienced professional receiving a complex offer, including base salary, stock options, incentives and related benefits, you may want to ask an attorney to review the terms before sending a Letter of Acceptance. In all instances, it is strongly recommended to accept any job offer in writing, to document your acceptance and have a record for future reference.