“We’ve decided to go another direction …”
This phrase is kryptonite to job seekers. No one likes rejection, but it’s particularly rough to be told “no” by a prospective employer — and it hurts worse the longer you’re out of work.
But you can bounce back. Check out these tips for dealing with job-search rejection and restoring a positive attitude.
Examine How You Got Here
Whether or not you were emotionally invested in a job opportunity, you’ll probably feel upset when you hear it’s not happening and kick yourself for blowing. This is normal, but the sooner you objectively assess the factors that led to your rejection, the sooner you can get back to effective job-seeking.
Reflect on the whole process, from application to interview. Did you find yourself questioning whether you were the right fit? Did it seem like your interviewer was looking for a more experienced candidate? Retrace your steps and consider if there was something specific you said or did that hurt your chances.
But at the same time, remember some things that are out of your control, and just because you were rejected, you may well have done absolutely nothing wrong. Fix what needs to be fixed and move on to the next opportunity.
Reach Out to The Hiring Manager
Send a thank-you email to everyone involved in the interview process. It’s a thoughtful professional habit, and it leaves the door open for other opportunities with the same employer. Sustaining the conversation a little longer could also provide valuable insight as to why the company went in another direction.
Take a Beat and a Breath
If a rejection puts you in a bad headspace, don’t hesitate to give yourself a day or two to shake it off before starting your job search again. It’s understandable to want to keep pushing immediately, but if your emotions are still raw, another setback might be even more devastating. It’s better to give yourself a reset. You’ll find the break will leave you feeling more motivated than before.
When You’re Ready, Get Back on the Horse!
That said, don’t let your break turn into an extended stay in the doldrums. No matter how many times you’ve been rejected, remember that there are still plenty of jobs out there that could be a perfect fit. Remind yourself that rejection and failure aren’t the same thing and that you can do this!
Need more help in your job search? Arrow Staffing can help. We match candidates with job opportunities in Grandville and throughout the Grand Rapids area. Take a look at our job portal today!
