How To Handle Rejection After An Interview
Multiple times in our lives, we face the sting of rejection. But don't take it personally. Reflect, refresh, and turn disappointment into opportunity!
How To Handle Rejection After An Interview
Regardless of why it happens, rejection hurts. Often rejection takes us by surprise, and other times, we know the outcome is not going to be in our favor.
Job search is often full of rejection and can actually make us stronger. The most challenging part can be knowing how to handle the "no" after we’ve worked so hard to secure an opportunity. It is difficult not to take rejection personally, because our work so deeply defines who we are.
How can rejection possibly be a positive element in my life?
Here are three concepts that may give you a new perspective on how the answer "no" can actually broaden your horizons and redirect you toward success:
Don't take it personally
We tend to know our own strengths, passions, and accomplishments best. So when we interview or apply for a job, we tend to picture ourselves as the "perfect fit." We work hard to sell ourselves as the one who would do the job in the best or most productive fashion. However, we have to consider some outside factors. For example, companies may be looking for someone or something different than what you have to offer. Often an original job description is altered over time, designed for someone already within the company, or does not accurately reflect what the company is seeking. In addition, resumes and job applications are often sorted out and even discarded by software that looks for specific terminology before they are seen by human eyes. This brings us back once again to the importance and power of networking with others to discover the hidden job market and make yourself real.
Reflect
When we are turned down for an opportunity - especially one we really wanted – it is important to reflect on a few areas ~ Did you:
- Research the company thoroughly enough?
- Present challenging questions?
- Arrive early?
- "Dress the part"?
- Follow up with a thank-you note quickly to reflect sincerity with a reminder as to why you are the best candidate for the job?
- Do your LinkedIn profile and other social media sites accurately reflect who you are as a professional? Have you said or done something to burn a bridge or mar your image in the eyes of the other party?
It is important to maintain professionalism at all times.
Turn disappointment into opportunity
Unfortunately, there are many "question marks" during the job-seeking process. We may never know why we weren't chosen for a job we really wanted. However, one of the biggest lessons I learned while between jobs was that every "no" I received was leading me closer to my "yes." When a door you had hoped would open closes instead, take action: contact a professional you trust to brainstorm new ideas, visit your local coffee shop to decompress and meet new people, determine to research a company or career you have never before considered. These are just a few examples of how you can turn a disappointment into a new opportunity. Don’t allow rejection to define you; rather, find solace in knowing you deserve to work where your value is recognized and embraced!
Look for the fork in the road and choose the road less often chosen. Your hard work will pay off!
