How To Handle Post Interview Rejection With Grace

"The average respondent started losing confidence in themselves after the fifth rejection, and about 64% ended up pivoting on the type of job they were applying for after losing their confidence. Of those, about 36% started therapy, 34% stopped job searching altogether, and 30% went back to school." (FastCompany, June 29, 2022)

Receiving a post-interview rejection letter/call or just total silence can be a disappointing and discouraging experience. After spending time researching the company, preparing for the interview, and putting your best foot forward, it can be hard to hear that you were not selected for the position. However, it is important to remember that rejection is a natural part of the job search process and it does not define your worth as a candidate or as a person.

 Here are some tips on how to handle post-interview rejection before it gets to affect your confidence level and make career decisions that can have drastic effects on your career path trajectory:

1. Take Time to Process Your Emotions

It is normal to feel a range of emotions after receiving a rejection letter or call, including disappointment, frustration, and even anger. Allow yourself some time to process these emotions, but try not to dwell on them for too long. It is important to acknowledge your feelings and then focus on moving forward. Journaling on this can tremendously help.

2. Ask for Feedback

If possible, it can be helpful to ask the interviewer for feedback on why you were not selected for the position. This can provide valuable insight into areas where you can improve, and help you perform better in future interviews. However, be sure to ask in a professional and gracious manner, and be prepared for honest feedback.

3. Focus on Your Accomplishments

It can be easy to get caught up in 'the rejection' and forget about all the hard work you put into the application and interview process. Take some time to reflect on your accomplishments and the skills and experience you bring to the table. Remember that one rejection does not define your abilities or potential for success.

4. Keep Searching and Networking

The job search process can be a long and challenging road, but it is important to keep pushing forward. Continue to search for new job opportunities and networking with professionals in your industry. The more you put yourself out there, the more chances you have of finding the right job for you.

5. Learn from the Experience

Every job interview is an opportunity to learn and grow as a candidate. Take the lessons you learned from the rejection and use them to improve your job search strategy. Maybe you need to work on your interview skills or tailor your resume and cover letter more closely to the job description. Whatever the case may be, use the experience to your advantage.

6. Don't Take it Personally

It is important to remember that a rejection letter or call is not a personal attack on you as a person or as a candidate. The hiring process is complex and there are many factors that go into a hiring decision, many of which are beyond your control. Don't take it personally and try not to let it affect your confidence or self-worth.

7. Stay Positive & Gracious

Finally, it is important to stay positive & gracious throughout the job search process. Rejections are a natural part of the process and everyone goes through them. Focus on the things you can control, such as your attitude, work ethic, and determination to succeed. Remember that the right job is out there for you, and with perseverance and a positive attitude, you will eventually find it.

In conclusion, handling post-interview rejection can be a challenging experience, but it is important to remember that it is not the end of the road. Take some time to process your emotions, ask for feedback, focus on your accomplishments, keep searching and networking, learn from the experience, don't take it personally, and stay positive. With these tips in mind, you can move forward with confidence and find the right job for you.

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