When starting a new job, employees may occasionally need to delay their start date due to unforeseen circumstances. An effective email plays a crucial role in professionally communicating this change to the employer. A well-crafted message demonstrates respect for the hiring manager’s time and helps maintain a positive relationship. Providing a reasonable explanation for the delay along with a new proposed start date can foster understanding and flexibility, ensuring a smoother transition into the new role.
Best Structure for Pushing Back Start Date Email
When you’ve landed a new job and you’re excited to start, it can be a bit nerve-wracking if something comes up that makes you need to push back your start date. Whether it’s due to a personal issue, a delay with your current employer, or simply needing more time to transition, clear and professional communication is key. Here’s a breakdown of the best way to structure that email.
Before jumping into the email itself, let’s look at what your message should include:
- Subject Line: Make it clear and to the point.
- Greeting: Address the person who sent you the job offer.
- Express Gratitude: Thank them for their offer and the opportunity.
- State Your Request: Clearly mention you want to push back your start date.
- Provide a Reason: Be honest but concise about why you need to delay.
- Propose a New Date: Suggest an alternative start date.
- Closing Remarks: Reiterate your enthusiasm.
- Sign Off: End with a friendly sign-off.
Now let’s break this down into a simple structure with a sample format you can use:
| Structure Component | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Subject Line | Something like “Request to Change Start Date” keeps it clear. |
| Greeting | Hello [Hiring Manager’s Name], |
| Express Gratitude | “Thank you so much for offering me the position at [Company Name]. I’m really excited to join the team.” |
| State Your Request | “I’m writing to discuss my start date, which is currently set for [Original Start Date].” |
| Provide a Reason | “Due to [brief reason, e.g., an unexpected personal matter], I would like to request a change.” |
| Propose a New Date | “Could we consider moving my start date to [Proposed New Date]?” |
| Closing Remarks | “I apologize for any inconvenience this may cause, and I appreciate your understanding. I am really looking forward to starting this new chapter.” |
| Sign Off | “Best regards, [Your Name]” |
By following this structure, you’re being respectful of your future employer’s time and understanding while also giving them a clear idea of your situation. Keep it straightforward and honest, and you’ll be on the right track to adjusting your start date without burning any bridges.
Pushing Back Your Start Date: Email Samples for Various Reasons
Sample Email for Medical Reasons
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I hope this message finds you well. I am truly excited to join [Company Name] as a [Job Title] on [Original Start Date]. However, I have recently encountered some unexpected health issues that require my attention and a brief recovery period.
Therefore, I kindly request to push my start date to [Proposed New Start Date]. I appreciate your understanding and support during this time and assure you that I am eager to contribute to the team as soon as my health allows.
Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to your response.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
Sample Email for Personal Reasons
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I hope you are doing well. I am thrilled to begin my journey with [Company Name] as a [Job Title] on [Original Start Date]. However, due to unforeseen personal circumstances, I kindly ask for a delay in my start date to [Proposed New Start Date].
I truly appreciate your understanding during this time, and I assure you that I am fully committed to joining the team and contributing as soon as I am able.
Thank you for your understanding. I look forward to your reply.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
Sample Email for Delay in Relocation
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am very much looking forward to starting my role as [Job Title] at [Company Name] on [Original Start Date]. However, I am experiencing some delays in my relocation process and, as a result, would like to request a new start date of [Proposed New Start Date].
I appreciate your understanding regarding this matter and assure you that I am ready to hit the ground running as soon as I arrive.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
Sample Email for Pre-existing Work Commitments
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I hope you are having a great day. I am excited to join [Company Name] as a [Job Title] on [Original Start Date]. Unfortunately, I need to honor a prior work commitment that overlaps with my start date. Therefore, I would like to request a new start date of [Proposed New Start Date].
I genuinely appreciate your understanding and flexibility with this request, and I am eager to become part of the team.
Thank you for your patience, and I look forward to your response.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
Sample Email for Family Obligations
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am really looking forward to starting my new role as [Job Title] at [Company Name]. However, I have recently encountered some family obligations that require my immediate attention and would like to request a new start date of [Proposed New Start Date].
I appreciate your understanding, and I am committed to making a smooth transition into my new role as soon as I am available.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
Sample Email for Education Commitments
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I hope you are doing well. I am extremely excited to join [Company Name] as a [Job Title] and was looking forward to starting on [Original Start Date]. However, I have recently been informed that I must complete an important academic commitment that conflicts with this date.
As such, I humbly request a start date of [Proposed New Start Date]. I appreciate your patience and understanding, and I am eager to begin contributing to the team once I fulfill this obligation.
Thank you for your understanding. Looking forward to your response.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
Sample Email for Travel Issues
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I hope this message finds you well. I am excited about the opportunity to work at [Company Name] as a [Job Title]. However, due to an unforeseen travel issue, I will need to push back my start date from [Original Start Date] to [Proposed New Start Date].
I greatly appreciate your understanding in this matter and assure you that I am fully committed to joining the team and making a positive impact as soon as I can.
Thank you for your flexibility, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Best wishes,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
How can I effectively communicate my request to push back the start date for my new job?
When you need to push back the start date for a new job, effective communication is key. Start your email with a polite greeting. Clearly state your intent to defer the start date. Provide a brief explanation for your request, ensuring it is both honest and concise. Offer a new proposed start date that works for you. Express appreciation for the employer’s understanding and flexibility. End the email with a positive note, reaffirming your enthusiasm for the position. This structure ensures clarity and professionalism in your communication.
What should I include in an email to postpone my start date at a new job?
In an email to postpone your start date at a new job, include several important elements. Begin with a respectful salutation to the hiring manager. Specify the initial start date and indicate that you wish to request a change. Explain the reason behind your request clearly, but maintain a professional tone. Suggest alternative start dates that align with your availability. Thank the employer for considering your request and assure them of your commitment to the role. Conclude the email with a courteous closing, reinforcing your excitement about joining the team.
What tone should I use when emailing to reschedule my start date for a new job?
When emailing to reschedule your start date for a new job, use a professional and polite tone. Start with a warm greeting to establish rapport. Maintain an optimistic tone while stating your request for a delayed start date. Use respectful language throughout the email. Keep your wording concise and focused on the facts. Show gratitude for the hiring manager’s understanding and cooperation. Conclude with a friendly closing statement, expressing eagerness to start your new role. This tone reinforces your professionalism and respect for the employer’s time.
And there you have it! Crafting the perfect email to push back your start date doesn’t have to be a stressful task. With a little thought and the right tone, you can communicate your needs while keeping your new employer on your side. Thanks for taking the time to read through this guide! I hope it helps you feel more confident as you navigate this tricky situation. Don’t forget to swing by again for more tips and tricks in the future. Good luck with your new job, and see you next time!