Surviving rejection
Follow these tips from BP recruiters that will help you assess and evaluate your performance after an unsuccessful job interview
Being rejected after a job interview feels awful
Yet at some point along the line, everyone receives that dreaded email, call or letter telling them they haven’t got the job. It’s never a nice experience, and it’s easy to feel despondent. Don’t be too disheartened though.
Follow these tips from our BP recruiters, and you’ll be ready to move on in no time.
It’s easy to take rejection to heart and blame yourself for something you did or didn’t do.
The decision not to hire you, however, might be down to factors that are out of your control and difficult to influence.
For example, there may have been a strong internal candidate, or a candidate with proven industry experience, or perhaps even a candidate with a niche skill you don’t have.
It’s impossible to know, so whatever you do, don’t blame yourself!
Rather than spend hours analyzing what you could have done during your interview or which questions you could have answered better, try and find out.
Ask the recruiter or employer for feedback that will help you improve in specific areas.
If the feedback is too generic, ask if they can give you examples from your interview and then spend time working through these and determining where you can develop.
There is no requirement for an employer to explain why you were unsuccessful for a job so remember: feedback is a gift, accept it gracefully and use it positively to be sure you make the most of it.
Adopt a positive mental attitude and ensure you approach each new job opportunity afresh.
Learn from feedback you’ve received in the past, then move on.
You can’t control exactly what the recruiter is looking for, but you can ensure they see you at your best.
If you feel you need some time before looking for another job, allow yourself to take it.
Work through whatever feelings of disappointment and frustration you have, as you don’t want to carry these with you on your next job search.
The better frame of mind you’re in, the more likely you’ll be to succeed next time around.
So be kind to yourself and, if you need to, take time to re-group.
It’s important to keep your confidence up, especially if you’re feeling deflated.
If you’re not in full-time employment and have some spare time, it’s a good idea to maintain your skills.
You could do this in a number of ways, including online and part-time training courses, or even charity work.
Not only will this keep you active and boost your confidence, but it’ll be a great talking point at your next interview – which you’re sure to get soon.