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View full library-letter-template.jpg "Application or interview feedback (unsuccessful) letter template")
If you need to inform a candidate that they didn't pass to the next interview stage, send this model letter to provide feedback and thank them for their time.
[Sender name]
[Sender address]
[date]
[Recipient name]
[Recipient address]
Dear [Recipient first name],
Position of [job title]
Thank you for taking the time to apply for the [position] role at [company]. We were impressed with your skills and experience, and appreciate your interest in joining our team.
After careful consideration of all applicants, we regret to inform you that we have decided not to proceed with your application at this time.
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An application or interview feedback (unsuccessful) letter is sent to a job applicant who has been unsuccessful in their job application or interview. The purpose of this letter is to provide constructive feedback to the applicant about why they were not successful, as well as to thank them for their interest in the position and to encourage them to apply for other opportunities in the future.
The feedback should be specific, honest, and constructive, highlighting areas where the applicant performed well and areas where they could improve in the future. The letter should also be written in a professional and courteous tone, expressing appreciation for the time and effort the applicant put into the application or interview process.
It is important to note that feedback should only be provided if the applicant has requested it or if it is part of the company's standard hiring process. Some applicants may not want feedback, and it is important to respect their wishes in this regard.
This Application or interview feedback (unsuccessful) letter template incorporates relevant UK laws and HR standards, including those listed below:
Equality Act 2010: Ensures that applicants are treated fairly and without discrimination during the application process based on protected characteristics such as age, gender, race, disability, religion, and sexual orientation.
Data Protection Act 2018: Requires organisations to handle and process applicant data securely and in accordance with data protection principles, ensuring confidentiality and compliance with privacy laws.
Employment Rights Act 1996: Imposes a duty on employers to provide written terms and conditions of employment, which may include acknowledgment of job applications as part of the recruitment process.
General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR): Provides guidelines for the lawful processing of personal data, requiring organisations to obtain explicit consent from applicants for storing and processing their personal information.
Human Rights Act 1998: Protects the right to privacy and a fair and just recruitment process, ensuring that applicants are treated with dignity and respect throughout the application process.
Yes. This template has been designed for organisations of all sizes, including small businesses, charities and growing employers. It follows UK employment law best practice and can be adapted to suit your organisation.
Yes, all of our templates are drafted with the latest ACAS guidance and UK employment legislation in mind. We review and update them regularly, so you can be confident they remain compliant.
Yes, we highlight the areas of the document that you need to update with your own details, and where you need to make decisions to suit your situation. This saves you time and ensures that you meet best practice.
Yes. Once purchased, you'll be able to download it instantly. Templates are provided in editable Word or Excel format so you can customise them easily, and in PDF format for easy sharing.
If you're looking for broader support, we also offer toolkits and library bundles that include the Application or interview feedback (unsuccessful) letter template, along with other HR templates and policies for fully managing your situation. These may be more cost-effective if you need deeper advice.
AI-generated templates can be useful as a starting point, but they may not reflect current UK employment legislation, your organisation's specific circumstances, or the wider HR process. This professionally drafted template has been prepared using current UK employment law and HR best practice, helping reduce the need for significant amendments.
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