Handling Job Search Rejection

Remaining positive after receiving a rejection notice can be tough. The key to handling rejection is in being prepared and not taking the notice personally. Successful candidates continue to job-hunt, stay positive, motivated and learn from the process. Even the best and seemingly most qualified candidates receive rejection letters. Whether you simply applied for the job or went through the entire interview process, you have

If all the company has seen is your cover letter and your resume, focus on those materials.

• Did you tailor your cover letter to meet their needs and requirements?
• Did your letter talk more about your accomplishments rather than focusing on how your background matches their job posting?
• Have you honestly assessed your resume and given serious thought to how you could make it more competitive and more enticing?
• Would it be helpful to get a critique of your resume?
• Do you need to get a degree?
• Do you need more experience in your field?
• Should you get more involved in professional organizations?
• Do you really meet the requirements of the position?
The rejection is still a part of the interview. It gives you yet another chance to demonstrate your maturity, to show your understanding of the profession and the hiring process and to prove you are a worthy candidate, to the hiring manager.

If the rejection came after an interview, take a good long look at what occurred and see if there are positive changes to be made.

• Make a note of questions you had difficulty answering or questions that stood out in your mind.
• Write out a list of further questions you could have asked.
• Review how you handled yourself and how you prepared.
• Were you able to elaborate effectively on the information you provided in your initial application?
• Did you do research and express your understanding of the company to the interviewer?
• Did you memorize your background speech and present it in a positive manner?
• If you think your interview skills need work, take action with a mock interview or make an appointment with a career specialist.

Send a Thank you- Networking Letter
Our final suggestion for handling a reject notice is to write the company back and thank them for the interview or the opportunity to apply for the job. Express your desire to be a part of their company should a job open that could utilize your background. A well-written thank you note, mailed within one or two days of receiving a notice of rejection makes a positive statement. A thank you note expressing your regret at not being offered the job, while also thanking the company for their consideration of your qualifications, may lead the employer to give you some additional contacts or consideration. Anyone you meet while finding a job can potentially become a valuable contact. Above all, be courteous, stay positive and motivated, and learn from the process.