Rejection: Accepting and Growing from it

One of the most challenging aspects of the job search and interview process is dealing with rejection. No one likes to be turned down for a job, especially after putting in a lot of effort and time to prepare for the interview. However, rejection is inevitable in any competitive field. Learning how to cope with it and use it as an opportunity to grow is important.

Here are some tips on how to address being rejected:

Don't take it personally.

I know, easier said than done right? Rejection is not a reflection of your worth or abilities as a professional. It simply means that another candidate was a better fit for the role at that moment. Many factors influence hiring decisions, and some of them are beyond your control. Remember that every employer has different needs and preferences, and what works for one may not work for another.

Ask for feedback.

If possible, reach out to the hiring manager or recruiter and politely request feedback on your performance and areas of improvement. This can help you identify your strengths and weaknesses and improve your chances of success in future applications. Be respectful and gracious when asking for feedback and thank them for their time and consideration.

For the best chance of receiving feedback, make sure you phrase your question around your performance. For example, instead of asking what the chosen candidate had that you don’t, or why they were chosen over you, ask what you could have done differently or what skills you should improve on in the future. In the moment, this may be the last thing you want to do but it’s also one of the best things you can do to improve your chances of being hired next time around.

Learn from the experience.

Review your resume, cover letter, portfolio, and interview responses, and see if you can improve or change anything. Maybe you need to update your skills, tailor your documents more effectively, or practice your interview skills more. Remember, the purpose of your resume is to get you the interview, it’s your performance in the interview that will get you the job. Use the feedback you received, if any, as well as your self-assessment, to plan for improvement.

Talk to a mentor or career coach.

The right mentor or coach can help you in all aspects of your career. Friends and family are great sources when you need a boost or a sympathetic ear but they're typically biased and aren't always as willing or capable of providing the constructive criticism that is needed to bring your job search and interview skills to a higher level. A mentor or career coach can give you professional feedback on your resume and help you practice your interview skills.

Stay positive and motivated.

Rejection can be discouraging and demoralizing, but don't let it stop you from pursuing your career goals. Focus on the positive rather than the negative. For example, you can celebrate being invited for an interview, which means that your resume and cover letter caught the employer's attention. You can also acknowledge the skills and experience you gained from preparing for and attending the interview. Finally, you can remind yourself of your achievements and qualifications, and why you are a valuable professional in your field.

Keep looking for opportunities.

Don't let one rejection slow down your job search. Many other employers out there are looking for someone like you. Keep applying for jobs that match your interests and qualifications, and network with people who can help you find leads and referrals. Be proactive and persistent in your job search, and don't give up until you find the right fit for you.

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Final thoughts.

Being rejected sucks! Learning to accept it is an ability that will have far-reaching benefits in both your professional and personal life. Rejection at some point in your life is inevitable but it’s rarely personal. Take a few minutes to feel disappointed but don’t dwell on it. Success is the best remedy for rejection. Learn from it and move forward.

If you'd like professional feedback on your resume or interview skills, feel free to contact me for a free consultation.

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