There is no failure – only feedback.

So how do I turn rejection to my advantage?

One of the best things about my job is when a role comes off for someone, you know how excited they're going to be and the impact it will have on their future. But on the other side of the coin one of the hardest parts of my job is letting someone down.

As a recruiter I’ve built up a relationship with a candidate. I know how much they want the position; the research they’ve put in, they would have prepared their competencies, the difficulty they’ve had trying to take time off, the discussion they would have had at home with friends or loved ones, their future hopes and aspirations, even down to the cost of their travel.

Deciding to go ahead with a job application is a big deal.

You’re of course hoping the time and emotional investment will pay off but of course there’s no guarantee.

We all have to deal with rejection from time to time. So, what’s the best way to deal with it?

Most people take rejection as personal, but I always say to disappointed candidates "no interview is a bad interview."?

Remember having been asked for interview in the first place is a big deal. It means your CV has stood out to the hiring manager - you’ve been chosen above other applications; your experience is relevant and achievements been noted.

Generally, we feel uncomfortable talking about ourselves or ‘blowing our own trumpet,' we’ve been taught from an early age not to boast. Having an interview would have allowed you to practice your interview technique. Being given the opportunity to think about what you’ve done; your achievements and core competencies is important - it's something you can use time and time again both in your personal and working life.?

The feedback you get from an interview can be used and embraced as an opportunity to learn. If a hiring manager has said that you tended to waffle, used “we did” instead of “I did” or didn’t listen to the questions, you can think about this and concentrate on succinctly articulating better responses next time. Replay the questions you were asked.?Practice and be ready for the next interview.

Bring it on!

Lisa Ross

#experienced recruiter #recruiterpassionforwhatwedo