Rejection is a natural part of life, and it’s something everyone experiences at one point or another. It can be particularly disheartening when you’re rejected after a job interview, especially if you thought you had a good chance of getting the position. But it’s essential to remember that rejection does not reflect your worth or capabilities.
In this article, we will discuss how to cope with job interview rejection and the steps you can take to bounce back and continue your job search.
Immediate Action:
1. Crafting a Response to Job Rejection – Tips and a Template
When responding to a job rejection, it’s essential to keep the following points in mind:
- Express your gratitude: Participating in an interview involves considerable time, effort, and coordination from the interviewers. Although you didn’t secure the position, the interviewers likely made an effort to provide a positive experience. As such, it’s important to thank the person who contacted you for the opportunity to interview, learn about the Company, and engage with the team. If any specific positive aspects stood out during the process, mention them briefly.
- Maintain a connection: Reaffirm your interest in the Company and its work. You can also request that they consider you for similar opportunities in the future. Doing so could eventually lead to a job offer.
- Reply promptly: As with all thank-you messages, it’s crucial to send your response promptly. While feeling disappointed about not getting the job is natural, don’t let it deter you for too long.
Here’s a versatile template to guide you in crafting your response:
Subject: Re: [Job Title] Position
Dear [Name],
Thank you for informing me about your decision.
Although I’m disappointed that I won’t be joining the [Company] team, I genuinely enjoyed meeting you and learning about your exceptional work.
I look forward to following [Company] as the team [pursues a specific current company goal], and I’ll be particularly interested in [project/development discussed during the interview].
I appreciate the opportunity to interview, and I hope our paths cross again in the future. Wishing you and [Company] all the best moving forward.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
Here’s an example of an email based on the template:
Subject: Re: Human Resources Director Position
Dear Joan,
Thank you for informing me about your decision.
Although I’m disappointed that I won’t be joining the BestGig team, I genuinely enjoyed meeting you and learning about your exceptional work.
I look forward to following BestGig as the team expands its services globally. I’ll be particularly interested in the evolution of the organisational culture accompanying that expansion. I can’t wait to see what you all come up with!
I appreciate the opportunity to interview, and I hope our paths cross again in the future. Wishing you and BestGig all the best moving forward.
Warm regards,
John
Here’s another example:
Subject: Re: Communications Director Position
Dear Simon,
Thank you for your email. I’m disappointed I won’t be joining your team, but it was great to meet you and learn about your exceptional work.
I look forward to keeping up with GreenPath as you work to enhance communication strategies for non-profit organisations and increase their reach, particularly by integrating AI technologies. I’ll be particularly interested in the pilot program you mentioned, which focuses on developing a comprehensive social media campaign for a local charity in London, utilising AI-driven analytics and content generation to optimise engagement and impact.
Thank you for the opportunity to interview, and I hope you’ll keep me in mind in the future. Wishing you and GreenPath all the best moving forward.
Best,
Ana
2. Connecting on LinkedIn
Another smart move after responding to the rejection email is to connect with the hiring manager or department leader on LinkedIn if you haven’t already. Be sure to include a brief and personalised message with your connection request, mentioning how much you enjoyed meeting them and expressing your desire to stay in touch.
A short and simple message like this would work:
Hi [Name],
It was a pleasure meeting you during my interview for the [type of position you applied for] role at [Company]. I thought it would be great to connect here and stay in touch.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
For example:
Hi Linda!
I really enjoyed meeting you during my interview for the Finance Director role at YellowBall. I thought it would be great to connect here and stay in touch.
All the best,
Susan
What else?
Allow Yourself to Feel Disappointed
It’s normal to feel disappointed when you don’t get the job you were hoping for. It’s essential to acknowledge your feelings and not suppress them. Give yourself permission to feel these emotions and process the rejection. This can help you move forward in a healthier way.
Reflect on the Interview Process
Once you’ve allowed yourself to feel disappointed, it’s time to reflect on the interview process. Think about the questions you were asked, how you answered them, and the overall interaction with the interviewer. Were there any areas where you felt you could have done better? This reflection can help you identify areas to improve for future interviews.
Seek Feedback from the Interviewer
If possible, reach out to the interviewer or hiring manager and ask for feedback on your interview. This can give you valuable insight into what you did well and what you can improve on. Keep in mind that not all companies provide feedback, but it’s worth asking if they’re willing to share their thoughts with you.
Analyse the Feedback and Identify Areas for Improvement
Once you have received feedback, take the time to analyse it and identify areas where you can improve. This could be anything from improving your communication skills to gaining more experience in a particular area. Use this feedback to create a plan of action for your personal and professional development.
Continue Building Your Skills and Experience
Use the rejection as an opportunity to continue building your skills and experience. Whether it’s taking a course, attending workshops, or volunteering, there are many ways to develop your skills and make yourself a more attractive candidate for future job opportunities.
Connect with Industry Professionals
Networking and connecting is an essential aspect of the job search process. These connections can lead to job opportunities, provide valuable advice, and offer support during your job search. Attend industry events, join online groups, and reach out to professionals in your field to expand your network.
Revamp Your Job Application Materials
Take a fresh look at your CV, cover letter, and any other application materials. Ensure they are up-to-date and effectively showcase your skills and experience. Consider seeking feedback from a trusted friend, family member, or professional CV writer to ensure your materials are as strong as possible.
Develop a Strong Job Search Strategy
Develop a job search strategy that includes setting goals, identifying target companies, and creating a schedule for applying to jobs and networking. This will help you stay organised and focused during your job search.
Practice for Future Interviews
Use your experience and feedback from your rejected interview to practice and improve your interview skills. Conduct mock interviews with friends or family members, or consider working with a career coach to hone your skills. The more you practice, the more confident and prepared you’ll be for future interviews.
Stay Positive and Persistent
Job searching can be challenging and sometimes disheartening, but staying positive and persistent is essential. Remember that rejection is a part of the process, and each “no” brings you one step closer to a “yes.” Maintain a positive attitude, and don’t let rejection hold you back from pursuing your career dreams.
Learn from the Experience
Every job interview, whether successful or not, is an opportunity to learn and grow. Use the experience to gain insight into yourself, your skills, and your career goals. This will help you become a stronger candidate and better prepare you for future interviews.
Don’t Take It Personally
Lastly, it’s important to remember that rejection does not reflect your worth or capabilities. Many factors go into a hiring decision, and sometimes it’s simply a matter of the company choosing another candidate who they believe is a better fit. Don’t take the rejection personally; keep moving forward in your job search.
Bouncing back from job interview rejection is a crucial skill every job seeker must develop. You can turn rejection into a valuable learning opportunity by allowing yourself to process your disappointment, reflect on the experience, seek feedback, and take actionable steps to improve. Stay positive, persistent, and focused on your goals, and remember that each rejection brings you one step closer to finding the perfect job that aligns with your values, skills and aspirations.
Embrace the journey, and use these experiences to grow personally and professionally, ultimately leading you to success in your career.
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