Every 'NO' will turn into a better 'YES' down the road!

I bet no one enjoys getting turned down for a job, and if you’ve done a lot of preparation for the role that you really wanted, it can be hard still to accept the rejection. But I think with the right mindset, you can turn the rejection into a career development opportunity. 

ASK & JOURNAL YOUR FEEDBACKS

They said if you don't fail, you don't learn – which I found very true. So, after being rejected, I took a moment to dwell on it and then take a breather - to think about what happened, and how I can learn from it.

So, I start by gathering all the feedback I can get from the recruiter. If the feedback feels a bit superficial or generic, I ask for a more detailed assessment. I put a lot of effort and time into the process, after all, and I think I deserved to get some actionable insights at the end of it.

JOURNAL EVERYTHING!

I reviewed and reflected on the feedback I received. As I mentioned, I journal everything that happened, from the way I prepared and researched, down to my interactions in the interview and any follow-ups. Excel spreadsheet really helps to track down the companies I submitted my application to, the date they responded, and the date of my follow-ups.

For the processes that took place in stages, I rank my performance for each part and determine where there's room for improvement. What did I sense went well? What could I have done differently? Could my research have been done more thoroughly? Were there any questions I felt I could have answered better?

There is always room to improve, so use any setbacks to shine a light on these areas. From the note of my weaknesses and issues that I can do something about, I use them as a focus for the way I approach my preparation for my future applications.

I tried to find ways to turn my issues into a plan with a timeframe. What can I do to fix the gaps in my performance? Depending on the issue, there may be some aspects that I need time to develop. Or it may simply be a case of working harder on some of my answers and finding someone to practice them with.

RESEARCH, RESEARCH, RESEARCH!

I look back over the job specification and try to project myself if I could truly thrive in that role. I go and build my skill sets to equip myself for the role.

Build a network with the current employees of your dream company. Try and learn about the culture, aspirations, and find the traits of the employees currently working at your target company. Make a point of staying constructive, and do all you can to learn from the experience to help you get ready for the next opportunity.

Hope this helps!