Dealing With Rejection In The Job Search

A simple truth in the job search is that everyone will inevitably get rejected at some point. An organization will review applications and conduct interviews for more candidates than it plans to hire, so assuming that you will always get hired does not fly. However, recognizing and accepting this truth is the first step in moving past a job rejection.

Don’t let rejection ruin you.
It is likely that not only have you faced rejection at some point in your life, but you have also been rejected from a role you really wanted. Although this disappointment can create a huge blow to your self-esteem, do not let rejection ruin you. It is part of human nature to get down on yourself and focus on something negative that has happened to you rather than all the positive things that happen to you. However, it is important to test reality and understand that there are many reasons for rejection. Being turned down does not mean you are a bad person and there is no use in overgeneralizing the situation. Resolve to either start or continue doing your best in the future and improve on yourself whenever you get the chance.

Rejection is all part of the job search process.
Accept that you cannot and will not land every single job that you apply or interview for. Once you have accepted this, it is easier to pull yourself back mentally and emotionally after facing rejection. Having had an interview at all can open more doors than you may realize. With a little resiliency and persistence, the day will come when you match with the job you’re interviewing for. All you have to do is regain a little perspective. Also, it is important to always have a backup option if your dream job does not work out. Always pursue multiple opportunities even if you don’t necessarily want to so that you have options.

Do not overanalyze, ask for feedback.
Just because you did not receive a call back for a second interview does not mean that you would have had you done something differently in the first interview. There is no use in replaying a scene in your head over and over because you cannot go back in time and fix it. Learn from your experience and keep moving forward. Also, there is nothing wrong with asking the hiring manager for feedback to help you improve. Although it may seem like an awkward conversation to have, it can help you to make the changes necessary in your job search process to land an opportunity in the future. If you need to, consult with an expert. He or she will be able to honestly evaluate your performance and presentation regarding both the application and the interview. And, there are lots of helpful books out there about how to interview successfully. Take full advantage of these and practice your answers to all the primary questions interviewers will ask.

Do not downplay your accomplishments and move forward.
Facing rejection may stink, but that does not mean that you stink as a person. Write a list of bragging rights with all of your accomplishments and contributions that could help you advance in the workplace of your dreams. Consider seeking an advanced degree, prepare stories that show off your successes for use in future interviews and remind yourself that you are capable. Moving forward is the only real solution to dealing with rejection in the job search and it is an important, although not always easy step. And continue scheduling interviews because everything will eventually fall into place.