The Redundancy Rethink #3

How to Handle Unsuccessful Applications

Receiving a rejection email can be disheartening. Often, these emails read something like: "Thank you for your application. After careful consideration, we have decided not to move forward with your application. Due to the high volume of applicants, we cannot provide further feedback at this time." Ouch! When I job hunt, I tend to apply to anything and everything that seems even vaguely relevant. Why? Because you never know what the employer is looking for, and I’ve always believed that the worst outcome is a simple "no."

This method can lead to a high number of rejections. However, it also opens up opportunities in industries and roles I might not have considered otherwise. Despite seeing the benefits of this approach, rejection emails still sting.

Learn to Compartmentalize

Compartmentalizing is a skill I’ve developed over the years. I am a passionate person, often described as empathetic and compassionate in my personal life. Without compartmentalization, I would end up shouldering everyone's problems and crumbling under the weight. In the context of job applications, this skill helps mitigate the demotivation that comes with rejection. When I receive a rejection email, I read it, sigh, and move on. For some opportunities, this is easy; for others, where I felt I was a perfect fit, it’s harder. In those cases, I remind myself that everything happens for a reason and try to box off the hurt.

Be Realistic

When I received an unsuccessful application email, I took a moment to consider whether the job was truly suited to my skill set or if I was reaching. This reflection helped me adjust my search, identify knowledge gaps, and sometimes laugh at my own ambition. Being realistic about my capabilities prevented me from feeling unduly discouraged by rejections.

Don’t Beat Yourself Up

Being told you have been unsuccessful can lead to emotions like anger, defeat, and imposter syndrome. Instead, I tried to see each rejection as a step closer to a positive outcome. When I worked at the post office, we had incentives to upsell products. The staff found it hard due to frequent rejections. I rebranded the incentive to count the "no thank you" responses rather than actual upsells. This approach meant every customer was asked, and ultimately, upsells increased. The same principle applies to job applications: the more rejections you receive, the closer you are to a positive response. Consistency is key.

Bin It and Move On

I always deleted unsuccessful application emails. Out of sight, out of mind. This helped me get over it quicker and kept my inbox filled with positive responses, which improved my mood and reaffirmed that I wasn't unemployable.

Reclaim Your Day

On days filled with rejection emails, it’s important to step back and do something that feels like an achievement. I once saw a social media post where a group of friends would message each other daily, asking, "How have you reclaimed your day?" The goal was to ensure they set aside time for something just for themselves. Reclaiming your day means finding something positive, whether it's a walk, building something, creating something, or researching something. This practice helps you look back on your day with a sense of accomplishment.

Conclusion

Job hunting is a full-time job and an emotional rollercoaster. You will receive rejections, but you will also receive acceptances. Take the good with the bad and reflect on your proactive efforts. The right opportunity is out there; it’s just a matter of finding it.