Let's first acknowledge one simple fact: rejection always hurts, no matter the context. Whether it's being rejected for a job or declaring your love to someone who simply says “thank you” in return, the general feeling is the same. Perhaps you dreamed of this job, but you weren’t hired. This can be confusing and frustrating. How to cope with refusal at an interview and move on?
ContentHow to Deal with Interview Rejection: Feel FrustratedAsk for FeedbackHow to Deal with Interview Rejection: Reflect and ReassessKeep Faith and ConfidenceHow to Deal with Interview Rejection: Keep Talking to Professionals
LinkedIn career expert Charlotte Davis says you should use this rejection as a learning opportunity to put yourself in an even better position next time. Rejections can be a chance to get feedback, improve your interview technique, and build your professional network before getting back on the job search path. WomanEL will share with you her 5 best tips:
How to deal with interview rejection: feel the disappointment
Give yourself permission to acknowledge and process your emotions. It's natural to feel frustrated, so give yourself time to feel those feelings. However, try to remember that this is just one chapter of your career journey. Don't dwell on rejection for too long as it can hinder your motivation to move forward.
Ask for feedback
We know it sounds awkward, but it's worth a try. For every “no” you receive, ask for feedback on how you can improve the situation next time. Don't show that you are angry. Instead, show your appreciation for the employer's time and explain that you want to learn from the experience.
Davis recommends: “Approach the hiring manager or recruiter and thank them for the opportunity. Politely share your interest in being considered for future opportunities and openings and ask for feedback on how you can improve. Try to gain valuable information that you can use to improve your skills. By receiving feedback and actively participating in it, you turn this failure into a learning opportunity and a chance to develop for future success.”
Ask the recruiter for advice on what to change to better suit the position. Source: freepik.com
How to Handle Interview Rejection: Reflect and Reassess
Take a step back to evaluate your skills and experience in light of the rejection. Think about the feedback you received and identify areas for improvement. The feedback may have revealed gaps in your interview technique that could be improved, or perhaps skills that you could improve or better highlight in your resume.
Keep faith and confidence in yourself
Once you allow yourself to feel sad, angry, depressed, etc., draw a line under the blues and look to the future. Remember that rejection happens to everyone and it does not define you. You've succeeded before and you'll succeed again—as long as you don't let that failure hold you back. Remind yourself of all the great things you've done and celebrate the small victories along the way.
How to Handle Interview Rejection: Keep Connecting with Professionals
Davis says, “It’s important to continue to maintain your professional network, both online and offline. Using connections is a great way to get started, so be sure to build and grow your network as often as possible. Connecting and engaging in posts on LinkedIn can help you strengthen relationships that may even lead to potential job opportunities. By joining relevant LinkedIn groups, you can showcase your expertise and expand your network. Building and maintaining relationships in your industry can open doors to new opportunities and keep you in the loop.
In some cases, people turn down jobs and don't even give a reason. Sounds familiar? This is called ghosting.
