Are you about to start a new job but need to postpone your start date? It’s not uncommon to face unexpected situations that require you to push back your start date. Whether it’s unforeseen personal circumstances or a change in your current job situation, it’s important to handle the situation professionally and with tact.
In this article, you’ll find sample emails that you can use as a starting point to request a postponement of your start date. Don’t worry if you’re not confident in your writing skills! These samples offer useful templates that you can easily customize to fit your unique situation.
It’s always a good idea to communicate your intentions as soon as possible. This way, your new employer can make adjustments with minimal disruption to their plans. Remember, honesty and clarity are critical elements in this situation. They will enable you to build trust with your new employer and manage expectations from the outset.
So take a deep breath, and let’s dive into how to write a polite and professional email to postpone your start date for your new job.
The Best Structure for a Postpone Start Date New Job Email Sample
When starting a new job, it is not uncommon to find yourself in a situation where you need to postpone your start date. This can be due to a variety of reasons such as illness, family emergencies, or previous commitments. Regardless of the reason, it is important to communicate your need to postpone your start date in a professional manner.
The first step in writing a postpone start date email is to clearly state your reason for the delay and your new proposed start date. Be specific and avoid overly detailed explanations that may not be relevant to your employer.
Next, express your regret for the inconvenience caused by the delay. Acknowledge that the change may have an impact on the company’s needs and plans. Show a willingness to work with your new employer to minimize any disruption to the workflow and assure them that you will be fully committed to your new role once you start.
Finally, close the email with a positive and courteous tone. Express your anticipation to join the team and your gratitude for their understanding. Leave the door open for any further communication by providing your availability for follow-up discussions or meetings if necessary.
Overall, the best structure for a postpone start date email sample should include a clear explanation of the reason for the delay, proposal for a new start date, expression of regret, willingness to work with the company to minimize the impact of the change, positive closing remarks, and an invitation for further communication if needed. Remember to keep the tone professional and polite while acknowledging the company’s needs and priorities.
Postpone Start Date New Job Email Samples
Illness or Medical Emergency
Dear [Employer’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. Unfortunately, I would like to postpone my start date due to an unexpected medical emergency. It is a difficult decision, but my doctor has advised me to take some time off work to fully recover and be fit enough to start successfully in my new role.
I apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and I appreciate your understanding and support during this difficult time. I want to assure you that I am committed to this position and will do everything in my power to quickly get back to work as soon as possible. Thank you so much for your consideration.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Unforeseen Family Emergency
Dear [Employer’s Name],
I hope this email finds you in good health. Unfortunately, I must request to postpone my start date for the unforeseen family emergency that has recently occurred. Over the past few days, my family has encountered an emergency that requires my immediate presence. It is imperative for me to be with them during this time, but I can guarantee that my commitment to this position is truly unwavering.
I apologize for the inconvenience but appreciate your understanding and support at a time like this. Please accept my thanks once again for being willing to work with me through what I hope will be a very brief delay.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Travel Restrictions
Dear [Employer’s Name],
I hope this message finds you in good spirits. My excitement at accepting your job offer was immense. However, I would like to propose to postpone the start date of my new job. Due to the worldwide pandemic outbreak, the U.S. embassy in my country temporarily suspended visa services for first-time applicants. Despite my best efforts to obtain travel clearance, I have been unable to secure the required documentation to enter the U.S. to begin work.
I am absolutely committed to this position and eager to start working as soon as possible. Meanwhile, I will stay in constant contact to keep you informed of any developments regarding the visa arrangement. I hope this does not cause any significant inconvenience, and I appreciate your understanding of the situation, until the suspension is lifted.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Resolving a Legal Issue
Dear [Employer’s Name],
First, let me express my sincere gratitude for extending me the opportunity to join your team. Excitement and anticipation have morphed into worry as I discovered that I have to appear in court. Unfortunately, the court date is right before my start date was initially scheduled. Therefore, I would like to sincerely ask for postponement of my start date, to a better-suited day.
Thank you for hearing me out and being flexible with your expectations. I assure you that after this matter is resolved, I will make an extraordinary effort to be ready for my new job and come up to speed as soon as possible. Thank you so much for understanding.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Difficulty Finding Childcare Arrangements
Dear [Employer’s Name],
I want to take a moment to express my appreciation for this great opportunity. However, I kindly request to postpone my start date due to an unforeseen issue. Recently I have had difficulty securing adequate childcare, which I believe requires my immediate attention.
Please understand that I consider this as a top priority, and I am committed to this position. I will keep you informed of any developments in terms of finding the right childcare provider, and will remain fully engaged with you in the meantime. Thank you again for understanding my circumstances and being so accommodating.
Warmest regards,
[Your Name]
Relocation Difficulties
Dear [Employer’s Name],
I am looking forward to serving in this position after having gone through thorough recruitment and hiring process with your esteemed firm. My excitement, however, has been dampened as extended government paperwork has held up my relocation efforts. Due to this, I kindly ask to delay my start date for two weeks while I resolve the issue.
Thank you very much for your understanding. Once the matter has been settled, I will be your dedicated employee, going above and beyond to make exemplary contribution to the company’s objectives.
Yours Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Inadequate Understand of the Job Profile
Dear [Employer’s Name],
I am grateful to have the opportunity to work for such a prestigious firm as yours. Nevertheless, after receiving the company specific training, either externally or internally, I have concerns regarding my in-depth understanding of what the requirements of the job are supposed to be. Therefore, I kindly request that we postpone my start date as I take it upon myself to reinforce my skills and sharpen my understanding of the job.
I will use this time to work closely with the recruiters or HR professionals, that conducted the onboarding process with me, if necessary. I really appreciate your kind words, and I am eager to make a meaningful contribution to the company with your guidance. Thank you so much for your kind understanding and support.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Tips for Postponing Start Date for a New Job:
Starting a new job is an exciting time filled with opportunities and new challenges. However, things don’t always go as planned, and sometimes circumstances arise that require you to postpone your start date. In such scenarios, it is essential to communicate your situation clearly and professionally to your employer. Here are some tips to help you write an email to postpone your start date.
1. Be honest and transparent: When you find yourself in a situation where you need to postpone your start date, it is essential to be honest and transparent with your employer. Explain your situation clearly and provide all the relevant details to help them understand why you need to delay your start date. This will help to build trust with your employer and demonstrate your professionalism.
2. Show your commitment: Despite the circumstances that are causing you to postpone your start date, it is vital to show your employer that you are still committed to the position and eager to start work. Reiterate your excitement about the job opportunity and your willingness to make up for any inconvenience caused by the delay.
3. Offer alternative start date: It is always a good idea to suggest a new start date that works for both you and your employer. This demonstrates your willingness to be flexible and your eagerness to get started. It also helps to alleviate any concerns your employer may have about the impact of the delay on their operations.
4. Follow-up: After sending the email to postpone your start date, it is crucial to follow up with your employer as soon as possible. This can be through another email or a phone call. This helps to reaffirm your commitment to the job and to demonstrate your professionalism and punctuality.
5. Apologize: Finally, it is essential to apologize to your employer for any inconvenience caused by the delay. This shows that you understand the impact of your decision and are willing to take responsibility for it.
By following these tips, you can craft a professional email to postpone your start date that demonstrates your commitment and reliability to your employer.
Postpone Start Date New Job Email FAQs
Can I postpone my new job start date?
Yes, you can request to postpone your new job start date due to unforeseen personal circumstances or extenuating situations.
What should I include in my email when requesting to postpone my start date?
You should explain the reason why you need to postpone your start date and provide a new proposed start date.
How much in advance should I request to postpone my start date?
You should request to postpone your start date as soon as you become aware of the situation and need for delay. Giving your employer as much notice as possible is recommended.
Will postponing my start date affect my new job?
It may affect your new job since delays can disrupt the hiring process and create additional work for your employer, but it is better to postpone the start date than to not show up without notice.
Is it appropriate to include personal details in my email?
It is not always necessary to include personal details in your email, but providing a brief explanation of your situation can help your employer better understand your request to postpone.
Who should I address my email to?
You should address your email to the hiring manager or human resources representative who you have been in contact with throughout the hiring process.
What if my original start date was already confirmed?
If your original start date was already confirmed by your employer, it may be more difficult to postpone, but still possible. It is important to communicate your situation as soon as possible and provide a new proposed start date.
Can I negotiate my new start date?
You can propose a new start date, but the ultimate decision is up to your employer and their needs and availability.
What if my postponement request is denied?
If your postponement request is denied, you should consider your options and determine if you are still able to start on the original date or if withdrawing from the position is necessary.
Happy Postponement!
And that’s all you need to know to draft a polite and professional email to postpone your start date for a new job. Remember, it’s better to be honest and upfront about your situation than to make promises you can’t keep. Thank you for reading, and be sure to come back later for more helpful tips and articles! Wishing you all the best in your career journey.