How to Deal with a Job Rejection

One of the hardest things you face when looking for a job is the endless rejection letters you receive from companies after you've spent days and nights filling out long job applications. This also applies especially to cases where you are contacted for an interview, you prepare for it, master it, and reach the final stage of the recruitment path. Rejection may sound like a nightmare to you, but it isn't. It is a very normal part of the job search journey and may be beneficial.

There is no doubt that you are asking yourself how being rejected in a job can be beneficial to you, and how you should deal with such situations. Here are some tips:

  1. Ask the recruiter their opinion: When you get feedback from the recruiter, you can then identify your weaknesses and work on improving the next time.

     

  2. Perform a self-check: try to remember where you felt you made a big mistake or were unable to confidently answer a question during the interview, and work to improve it.

     

  3. Never take things personally: There may be many reasons why you were not shortlisted for the job, you might have done poorly during the interview, or maybe a better person was chosen, but you should always remember that this is not personal against you.

     

  4. Have a positive mindset: If rejection leads you to constantly overthink, worry and stress, then you are harming yourself, and you will never learn or develop yourself. You have to make it a way to find a better opportunity, which will open many doors for you. Stay enthusiastic and optimistic.

     

  5. Continue to learn and develop yourself: It is important to enhance your skills and keep your experience up to date. This could take the form of a part-time internship, joining a charitable project, or a volunteer position at a company. These things help you maintain your professional activity, develop yourself continuously, and boost your self-confidence.

     

  6. Expand your network: Consider doing a lot of job interviews as meeting new people and drinking coffee with them. Some of them may like you and want to meet you again, but others may not want to do that at all. However, those who would rather not be friends with you may remember you, see something unique in you, and ask about you in the future. The more HR executives you meet, the better it will be for you.

     

  7. Expand your profile in the companies’ database: When you apply for a job, your CV and profile remain in the company’s database for other future opportunities, especially if the HR officer finds you impressive, but couldn’t hire you, though they can refer you to other companies.

 

In summary, remember that being rejected for a job is not a loss for you, but rather a win, and better than not being contacted at all. You just have to stay positive, and you'll get the perfect job at the right time.

Rami El Rawas
Rami El Rawas

HR Consultant