Job Search Tip of the Week #42 (2018)

Break the Job Rejection Cycle

“After reviewing your submitted application materials, we have decided that we will not be offering you an interview at this time.”

“Unfortunately, we won’t be moving forward with you.”

“We regret to inform you that you were not selected for the position.”

No matter how you spin it, job rejection hurts — even more so if you don’t know why you were ignored or rejected. And not just emotionally, but professionally too, because knowing the reason(s) why you were passed over for a position can help you progress in your job search. Below, the 5W1H (who, what, when, where, why, and how) you need to know about asking for feedback after a job rejection:

Why you should respond to job rejection

You can’t get better if you don’t know where you’re going wrong! Job rejection provides an opportunity to learn about areas you need improvement, such as your first impression, job search strategy, technical expertise, job competency, or interviewing skills. Not to mention, rejection builds resilience. Responding to a job rejection – and how you do so – says a lot about your character. Expressing affability and understanding shows that you can maturely handle hearing the truth and want to maintain a professional relationship.

When you should ask for feedback

First and foremost, it never hurts to ask.

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