How to Recover from a Job Rejection

At some stage of your job-hunting journey, chances are you’ll be turned down for a role, not just once so it can be hard not to take a job rejection personally. The key is to turn a negative into a positive – and understand how to deal with job rejection to stay at the top of your game.

Let go of the negativity.

Humans can be more impacted by negative events rather than positive or neutral events so it can be easy to blow a job rejection out of proportion. After an initial outpouring of frustration, it’s important to let the negativity go. Pent-up frustration won’t aid your continuing search for a new job. Bear in mind too, if you got as far as the interview stage, you’ve done extremely well. Plenty of other candidates would not have progressed that far.

Don’t take it personally.

In the cut and thrust of the commercial world, employers need to decide based on the candidate they believe is best suited for the role. So, don’t regard a job rejection as a statement about you personally. Rest assured, it’s unlikely that not getting the job was the result of the hiring manager making a conscious vote against you. The greater likelihood is that another candidate’s experience or personality resonated more strongly with the hiring manager.

Put the opportunity to work.

If you are unsure about why you were turned down, and it can be worth asking for constructive feedback. A simple phone call or email can potentially give you a clearer idea of why you didn’t receive a job offer. There could be a good reason why you were overlooked, and it will at least put an end to any nagging doubts you may have.

Practice self-awareness.

Consider how you present yourself to others. Take this opportunity to go over your cover letter and resume for areas that could be improved. Think about how you answered key interview questions, and whether you highlighted your experience in the most favorable light. Then put the experience to work by aiming to do even better next time around.

Stay positive.

Sustaining a positive mental attitude is an important part of dealing with job rejection. Maintain a strong outlook by treating yourself to rewarding behaviors. Meet with friends, maintain personal interests that fulfil your life outside work and exercise – it can be a great way to clear your head. Focus on the next opportunity – it could take you one step closer to your dream role.