One of the most difficult and emotionally challenging parts of your job search will be handling job rejection and finding the power to remain motivated.
In this guide, we want to help you find ways to channel those emotions into positive action - to help you keep going and searching for your dream job.
Handling job rejection during your search
It's natural to feel disappointed or frustrated after receiving a rejection letter or email, but it's vital to remember that you are not alone in this experience. Rejection does not reflect your abilities or worth as a person or potential employee. It's simply a part of the process.
Let's consider what to do when you receive your next job rejection.
Step 1: Take some time out from your job search
The best thing to do is to take a little time out. Allow yourself a few days to feel all the emotions accompanying rejection and think about how to improve your chances next time.
One effective way to cope with rejection is to prioritise self-care. You should do this by engaging in activities you enjoy, such as pursuing a hobby or spending time with people you care about.
Remember, taking care of yourself in this process is essential. It can help you feel more positive and energised for your next application.
Step 2: Seek feedback
Another strategy for dealing with rejection is actively seeking feedback and learning from it. While it may be challenging to hear constructive criticism, it can offer valuable insights into areas where you can enhance your approach. Reframing rejection is a chance to improve your mindset and help you make more precise decisions about what you are looking for.
Further in this guide, we discuss responding to a rejection letter or email. Read that and request feedback on how your application or interview went. If the employer responds, don't take what they say as a sign of weakness on your part; instead, take it as an opportunity to improve with a positive approach.
Step 3: Remind yourself you are not the first to be rejected
It's worth noting that even successful people have faced rejection before achieving their goals. For instance, J.K. Rowling was turned down by 12 publishers before finally getting her first Harry Potter book published. Walt Disney is thought to have been fired from his newspaper job because he 'lacked good ideas and imagination.' He was reportedly rejected 300 times for Mickey Mouse and his theme park. These examples demonstrate that rejection is not failure but an opportunity to learn and grow.
Take this inspiration, give yourself some time and return to your search with positivity.
So, how many job rejections are "normal", and why are you getting so many?
These days, it's common to face multiple rejections before finding the right opportunity. We work in a world where more people are looking for work with more avenues for search. A reputable employer probably has hundreds of thousands of followers online, and mentioning a job opening will encourage thousands of applications.
So, how many rejections are normal? A lot.
Why are you getting so many? Multiple reasons.
Let's look at some pointers to help you get further through the process next time.
What can you do to receive more interest from employers?
If you are struggling, it is time to sit down and consider where you can attract employers' interest. Let's examine the stages of the job search and how you can influence change.
At application stage
If you are receiving high numbers of rejections at the application stage, check the following:
You are applying for roles aligned to your skill set
That your CV shows what you can do
That your portfolio backs this up and offers a sense of creativity
Your cover letter is tailored to the employer and the role you are applying for.
You can also network more and improve your online presence. Nowadays, how we show up in our industry shows our enthusiasm for the work. By being more socially active, you might also have employers come to you, meaning no more job applications!
If you are filling out traditional job application forms, ensure you give the employer exactly what they requested at each stage. For example, is all of your essential data correct? Are you answering questions in the manner in which they were asked (usually highlighted within the question)? Are you backing up your answers with clear evidence of what you achieved and how?
Review a few recent rejections and think about how you could improve your applications next time.
At interview stage
When you reach the interview stage, an employer sees something in you. They see potential value for their team. They now need to assess whether you will be a good fit with their current personnel and if you are the best person for the job.
Consider your preparation for the interview and your actions. Did you fall foul of any common mistakes? If so, learn from these mistakes and improve your preparations for a future interview.
At the final selection stage
After your interview, the employer will face a final selection stage. They will look at each candidate and discuss with their team who is the right fit for the job. They may decide to see you again at this stage or make an offer outright.
If you do not get the job, it comes down to qualifications, team fit, or maybe the job scope changed. While there is little you can do about team fit and job scope, you can look at your skills and decide if you need to explore professional development. Having another skill or bettering your skills makes you a more valuable employee to the next company you apply to work with.
How to remain persistent during a job search
Setting realistic goals and developing a plan is excellent for maintaining persistence. Break down your job search into smaller steps and create a timeline for achieving those goals.
For example, let's say you plan to apply for three jobs a week. There will be many steps to that process, from the search to the application. Break these steps down into goals. Ticking these off during your research gives you a sense of achievement, which produces a positive outlook.
Another important tip is to stay organised and track your applications. Keep a spreadsheet or document to track the companies you have applied to, the date of application, and any follow-up actions you need to take. By remaining organised, you will be more in control of your job search and maximise opportunities.
Networking and seeking support from others are also crucial to maintaining persistence. Reach out to friends, family, and colleagues for advice and support. Attend job fairs, relevant networking events, and industry conferences to expand your network. Anything you can do to keep you feeling positive and motivated will help.
Finally, looking to successful people who have demonstrated persistence in their job search for inspiration can be helpful. Examples include Steve Jobs, who was fired from Apple before returning to lead it to great success.
Finally, let's look at responding to rejection emails and letters.
How to respond to job rejection emails and letters
There are many reasons why responding to a job rejection is a good thing: it can be a source of learning and help you be remembered for future jobs with a company.
Here's how to reply to application and job rejection successfully:
● Start by expressing gratitude for your opportunity to interview and the time the employer spent considering your application.
● Communicate your ongoing interest in the company and any future opportunities.
● Ask for feedback. Constructive criticism can be invaluable for personal and professional growth.
● Keep your response positive and respectful.
Remember you are not alone in receiving rejection letters. Handling your job rejection with grace and a positive mindset will help you push through and apply for a new job tomorrow. We promise your next job is just around the corner.
If you need help in your job search, please join us on our Job Board, register and speak with one of our advisors about our career services.