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Occasionally,  you will be offered a position after a successful job interview, but will need more time than offered to make your decision. In this case, it becomes necessary to request an extension of the deadline for acceptance.

Remember that while you have the right to ask for an extension, the employer does not have to grant your request. Be sure you have a valid reason for requesting your extension. If appropriate or necessary, state this reason in  your response. However, word it as tactfully as possible. If, for example, you have another interview scheduled, be sure to state that it is important to you to honor the committment that you have made.

You should first phone the employer to request an extension. Afterward, follow up with a written or emailed request.

It is important to broach your request a few days before the deadline for your decision. Waiting until the last minute may cause the employer to think that you are unprepared or disorganized. Instead, make your phone call several days before the final deadline, to demonstrate that you are carefully planning ahead.