How To Move On From Job Rejection
The painful position, where that dream job you were really excited about finally calls…and they say they have chosen a different candidate.
Your stomach drops, and you have to try to hide the disappointment in your voice while graciously accepting the rejection.
Job rejection can really hurt our self esteem and pride if we let it.
And if you are trying to find a job as soon as possible, job rejection can be incredibly stressful.
A lot can be going through our minds after being rejected from a job, but it’s important to know how to work through it so that you can get back in the game.
Today we will talk about some ways to help you move on from your job rejection and come out even stronger than before!
Try Not To Take It Personally
It’s not you, it’s them.
I know that’s a line often used to console someone during a break up, but in this case it may be true.
You and the company that you applied to really may not have been compatible.
And if that is the case, you would not have enjoyed working for them anyways.
If compatibility was not the issue, then perhaps there was simply someone better prepared for that particular job.
Guess what? That’s okay!
Sometimes other people are more suited for certain things, or are more experienced, and there’s no shame in that.
What’s important is that you don’t take it personally and don’t let it get you down!
There are plenty of employers out there that would be lucky to have you.
Remember That Rejection Is Part Of The Process
Life is a process and there are many bumps and bruises along the way.
“It’s a hard fact that you’re not going to land every job you apply for. No one does! Coming to grips with this fact and learning to accept rejection as part of the process will help build your mental and emotional armor.
Plus, once you let go of the need for a guaranteed outcome, you open yourself up to a world of other possibilities—other jobs, opportunities, and companies that could be an even better fit.
As hard as it may be, attempt to embrace the process. Viewing each experience (even the rejections) as a way to learn and grow as an individual.”
Refocus On Your Goals
There is no better time to reevaluate your goals and ambitions than after being denied something you “thought” you wanted.
Take this opportunity to make sure you know where you want to go in life.
Try to visualize what you want your life to look like, and then use that as a guide while you make your choices.
A job rejection presents a great opportunity to make sure the things you’re pursuing line up with your goals.
Stop Overanalyzing
Overthinking happens, but it will not be helpful or healthy to overanalyze exactly why you didn’t get a certain position, or wonder what you could have done differently for days on end.
It is so easy to become negative, or maybe think about all the things you did wrong during the hiring process.
But beating yourself up will not help. Choose to not overanalyze the situation and give yourself permission to let it go and move on.
Reflect On Where You Can Improve
While over-thinking can be detrimental, it is helpful to spend some time thinking about what you can do better in the future.
You may want to talk to a friend and have someone look over your resume and make sure everything is in tip top shape.
Some people may even consider asking the person who interviewed them for feedback!
Whenever a door closes, getting some constructive criticism may help you greatly in your future endeavors.
“Not all hiring managers will provide this but 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. If it turns out there are gaps in your skillset, consider enrolling in a course.
It could give you a real advantage when you apply for other roles.”
Keep The Momentum Going
After being rejected from a job, give yourself permission to take a day or two to feel it and grieve if you need to.
Don’t stay there though! Make sure you keep moving forward.
We all know that an object in motion tends to stay in motion.
So pick yourself up and keep looking until you find your dream job! It’s out there waiting for you. You just have to keep the momentum going long enough to find it.
Be Kind To Yourself
You are a person! We fail sometimes, we are rejected sometimes. But we are also incredibly resilient, and we often succeed and do amazing things.
Be kind to yourself in this journey.
Practice positive thinking and self care. If you are taking care of yourself emotionally, mentally, and physically you will be even more desirable to the next employer.
Plus, being kind to yourself and practicing self care will make life a lot more enjoyable!
So while you are searching for the right job make sure you stay positive and keep on trying.
You’ve got this!