The goal is to secure your preferred opportunity and still leave every employer with a positive impression of you.
Get clear on what you really want
Before you answer anyone, take time to decide what best actually means for you.
Consider:
- Type of work and how it will strengthen your portfolio.
- Mentorship and feedback you are likely to receive.
- Studio culture and team fit.
- Schedule, commute, and any pay or stipend.
- Possibility of future work or a longer term role.
Make a simple comparison: one page, with each offer listed and quick notes for pros and cons in each category. This keeps you focused on your goals instead of pressure or guilt.
Ask for time, do not go silent
When you receive an offer and you are still waiting to hear back from others, you can absolutely ask for time.
Example script:
“Thank you so much for the offer. I am excited about this opportunity and I really appreciate it. Would it be possible to have until [day and date] to review everything and get back to you?”
Guidelines:
- Always start with genuine thanks.
- Ask for a specific deadline, not a bit more time.
- If you need one extension, ask once, briefly and politely.
- Do not disappear. Ghosting is unprofessional. The design community is small.
Mention other opportunities ethically
It is okay to let an employer know that you are considering more than one option, as long as you are respectful and not trying to play them against each other.
Statements you can use:
“I am currently considering a couple of opportunities. I want to make a thoughtful decision.”
“I remain very interested in your placement. I do have another offer with a deadline of [day]. Is there any chance you might have an update on my candidacy before then?”
Tips:
- You do not have to name the other studio or employer.
- Avoid sounding like you are using offers as leverage.
- Keep the tone calm, appreciative, and factual.
Accept your favourite offer clearly
When you have decided which placement you want, move quickly and confirm in writing.
A simple acceptance email:
Subject: Fieldwork Offer Acceptance Dear [Name], Thank you again for offering me the [role] position for the upcoming fieldwork term. I am pleased to accept. To confirm, the placement will run from [start date] to [end date], at [location or remote], and I will be working on [brief description if known]. If you have further questions about Fieldwork, please do not hesitate to ask me, or our Program Coordinator, Alain Paradis at paradia@algonquincollege.com Sincerely, [Your name]
Once you've accepted, you can stop pursuing other opportunities. Do not back out later unless there is a serious, unavoidable situation. Reneging can damage your reputation in a small industry.
Decline other offers politely and keep doors open
Once you have accepted your preferred placement, you must let other employers know your decision. The goal is to say “no” in a way that keeps the relationship positive.
Template for declining an offer:
Subject: Fieldwork Offer – Thank You Dear [Name], Thank you very much for offering me the [role] opportunity at [studio or organization]. I appreciated the chance to meet you and learn more about your team and your work. After careful consideration, I have decided to accept another placement that is a closer fit with my goals at this stage. It was a difficult decision. I am genuinely grateful for your time and interest. I hope our paths might cross again in the future. I have a great impression of your team and the work you are doing. If you would like, I am happy to share your posting with my professor and classmates who are still looking for a placement. Sincerely, [Your name]
Key behaviours:
- Reply as soon as you have made your decision.
- Be direct about declining, but keep the tone warm and respectful.
- Avoid long justifications. A brief explanation about fit with my goals is enough.
Mindset: think long term, not just this semester
Every email and conversation is part of your professional reputation. The design world, especially in Ottawa, is connected. People talk.
Helpful mindset shifts:
- You are not using anyone. You are making a careful decision about your education and career.
- Saying no politely now can still lead to a freelance project, a future job, or a recommendation later.
- Clear communication shows maturity, professionalism, and respect for the employer’s time.
If you are unsure about how to phrase a message, draft it first, then have a trusted mentor or professor read it before you send.