How to let a recruiter know I won’t be progressing with interviews without annoying them.

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I know the likely initial thoughts will probably be “who cares” but for context, I work in a small industry, I don’t want to progress now but that’s not to say that I won’t want to work for this company in the future. I also might need the services of this recruiter again in the future.

A recruiter supported me through a job application a couple of years ago but when I received the contracts the terms were terrible and I had to turn the job down- the guy won’t speak to me now and the company seemed pretty annoyed with me (I was very polite and fully explained the issues and why I couldn’t accept).

The recruiter and the Director of this company are lovely but the line manager didn’t come off well and I’ve had other offers which are more attractive. This company want a third interview stage (pretty unheard of in my industry) plus travel and a presentation. I don’t have the energy for this if I’m not that interested in the job. I’ve provisionally said I’ll go but it’s looking more and more unlikely that I’ll want to work here.

Be honest. As someone who interviews I really appreciate honesty. Just say how grateful you are for them giving you the time. Tell them however you have been successful in another interview which will be more suitable for your current work/life commitments. Tell them how much you liked the company/ethos and how you would be keen to hear of further opportunities in the future. Best wishes etc etc. Most of us understand we are interviewing eachother, not one way. If they become sour and nasty it doesn't sound like a place you'd want to work anyway.