The next steps after job rejection

Completing a lengthy and challenging interview process to discover you haven’t secured the role is unfortunate; but of course, you’re not alone. Processing job rejection can be difficult, let alone thinking about the next steps. 

However, thinking about the next steps is necessary. Whether it’s getting back on the job search or taking some time away – planning your next steps soon after, will be beneficial. 

Although it’s challenging, we’re here to provide you with some tips on the next steps you can take after being rejected from a position. 

 

Ask for feedback 


One way in which you can improve and learn from your experience is to ask for feedback, if possible. Feedback from your recruiter or the client themselves, will help you identify skills you may lack, areas of interviewing you need to improve or the main reason you were unsuccessful.  Self-analysis alone won’t be enough to help you improved, because you will be looking at it from one perspective only. 

If you feel that the feedback you have received is not detailed enough, do not hesitate to request more specific feedback. The recruitment process does require much input from the candidate, so you deserve the same feedback in return. 


Reflect on your experience 


Once you’ve had time to review your feedback, take time to reflect on your experience. Whether successful or not, the recruitment process is a learning experience. Based on the feedback you receive, reflect on how you prepared for the interview. What did you do well? What could you have improved on?

If your interview happened in stages, analyse each stage and review how you prepared and executed each stage. If you had a presentation – did you prepare well? Did each slide have the necessary information? Did you have more information that was necessary? 

Sometimes it’s not always about your preparation, parts of the interview can catch you off-guard at times – an experience you’ll learn quickly from. 


Be resilient 


Building resiliency is crucial after job rejection, especially if it’s your first experience. Just like the digital world, we’re seeing new technologies be introduced and constantly evolving – requiring a resilient mindset to keep up and challenge yourself with learning new things. Career’s are likely to be filled with setbacks, and developing the ability to be able to bounce back from disappointments will help you advance in your career. 

Taking on constructive criticism during your job search only helps you find the right position in the long run. You’re not alone when facing job rejection; the most important thing is to learn from the experience. 


Being philosophical


Sometimes it’s not always your fault. Usually during the interview process, you’re competing with other very talented candidates who may have a considerable amount of experience over you, and that is not something you can control. All you can do is sell your desire and willingness to secure and advance in your career. 


Decide your immediate steps


You may decide to take a break from job-searching or get back in touch with a recruiter to carry on the search; but whatever you decide to do, don’t take too long to decide. If you decide to carry on looking, keep in touch with the recruiter and keep your search active. If using platforms like Reed and LinkedIn, be sure to notify recruiters that you are looking for new opportunities with the aim of finding a role that matches your skillset. 

If you decide to take a break, notify recruiters, and also have a reason. If it’s to take a break from your career and travel or do some courses, display this on your CV or profile. 


Refine your search 


Sometimes the interview process may show you that, although being rejected, that the role wasn’t the best fit for you either. The interview process is a chance for both you and your potential employer to decide whether you would be suitable for the position. 

If the role wasn’t well-suited, look back over the job specification and analyse areas of the role you thought were applicable to you, and other areas that weren’t. Use the experience to refine your search, so it is tailored to find you results that specifically match your skillset and experience. This may be using certain keywords and job titles. 

If you’re beginning or in the process of looking for a new position, get in touch with our team.