How do you decline a job after you have a accepted it?

I have a little different twist on the advice you have been receiving (much of which is very good, by the way.) I agree with those who suggest you discuss the situation, in person, with the individual who hired you. But, my suggestion is that instead of telling them you have ACCEPTED an offer that better fits your degree. I would start by explaining just what you have described in you question. Then, I would tell them you have RECEIVED an offer. Then, express appreciation for their willingness to hire you and ask if they have any positions in their company that are similar to the one you have received an offer for and ask about the possibilities of moving into such a position with their company. This idea may not be of value unless the company you received your first job offer from realistically has positions that do fit your degree. If they do, I think giving them the opportunity to match another offer you have received honors their original comittment to you better than simply telling them, "thanks, but see ya!" And, who knows, if they do have a position that better fits your degree, they may like you enough to give you an even better offer than the one you have in hand. They liked you enough to hire you "on the spot", didn't they? Best of luck.

Ask Billy Donovan

I'd suggest calling up them up and asking if you can come in for a small "sit-down" or "meeting". Most likely they will say yes. When you go in explain to them that although you appreciate the job offer that an offer directly related to your degree has offered you a job and you would like experience in the field that you are starting your career in. After you speak with them follow up with a thank you letter for the offering of the job, but decline it. Good luck!

With the same grace with which you accepted it in the first place. Explain to the company that when you accepted the job you really needed the money but that you have since been offered a job that better matches your degree qualifications and have decided to accept that one instead. Believe me, they will understand.

That's a very awkward position, but as in many other life situations, honesty is the best policy here. As the others pointed out, you should let the person who hired you know directly and explain your reasons thoroughly.

Very awkwardly. Call,explain you found a position which is more in line with your background, tell them "Thanks" and apologize for any convenience you may have caused. This happens often, so don't worry about it. Congratulations, and good luck.

Call up your employer and tell them the truth. Tell them that you appreciate the fact they want you on their team but however you have to unfortunetly decline the position. You hope that this won't dampen any future relationships with the company you might have. If you do it sounding remorse and professional they shouldn't have a problem. You can even through in that you are wanting to find a job that focuses more on what got a degree in. If you have the hiring manager's email you can email them the letter instead of talking on the phone. Otherwise just make the call. Don't go into detail unless they ask and try and keep it under 5-10 minutes. Good luck!

Call them and tell them you have had a change of heart.