Bowing out gracefully...

[arnieschwartzsnogger]

I'm currently temping in a role to cover sickness. When I went along for the interview they asked if i would be interested in a permanent role as they weren't sure if the member of staff in question would return. i said yes.

Fast forward a few months and it's looking likely that they are going to make me an offer shortly. But... much as I like the team I really don't want the job (team are too disorganised, reactive, it's too stressful and systems/processes are utterly 5hite). As a consequence, I feel pretty ineffective even though they seem to think I am doing a great job.

I want to bow out gracefully and leave the door open as although I don't want the job permanently i don't want to burn my bridges. Can anyone recommend the best way to approach it?

What's your back-up plan? Are you looking for an alternative job? That would be the obvious excuse.

Do you feel you want to raise these issues with the company - bad processes etc? If so, perhaps make some positive suggestions whilst saying it's not the right fit for you at the moment. It depends what you want out of it.

Hmmm, wondering if you work with me

I'd just pick a reason like travel time or not enough hours etc and say you are happy to stay while needed but it would be difficult for you to make it permanent because of x y and z.

The issue here tho is that if they are aware you cannot or do not want to stay permanently and they believe the role will be permanent, I can't see why they would look to keep you as a temp either. If that makes sense?