We have all experienced job rejection at some point and let's face it - it’s tough. You tailor your CV, craft a cover letter and pour over assessment or interview questions, only to receive the dreaded email stating a company decided not to move forward with your application. However, it is important to keep in mind that rejection is not the end, facing job rejection is inevitable and learning how to deal with it in a more positive manner will ultimately benefit you in the long term and likely aid you in securing a job. So here is a guide on how to bounce back stronger after job rejection!

Feel It - Then Let It Go

Rejection stings, so let yourself feel disappointed without dwelling on it for too long. It is completely valid to be upset but don’t let one rejection defeat you or impact your motivation. Instead of becoming demotivated, focus on the fact that YOU are not being rejected as a person but the role just was not a good fit this time. 

Ask for Feedback (if you can)

Reaching out to find out exactly what it was that resulted in a different candidate being chosen over you will likely give you valuable insight and help improve your chances for other roles, particularly feedback on interviews. Sending a short polite message also shows maturity and professionalism which are always great traits to display! Try a message such as “Thank you for the opportunity and your time. If possible, I’d love any feedback to improve for the future.” 

Reflect and Adjust 

Use each rejection as a checkpoint instead of as a failure – ask yourself:

• Did I tailor my CV enough?

• Was I clear about my strengths in the interview?

• Did I apply to a role that truly fits my skillset?

If the answer is yes to all of these, then keep doing what you are doing, but if you think you did not put enough effort into your application, consider a few small tweaks as this may make a big difference.

Remind Yourself What You Bring

It is natural to start doubting yourself when faced with rejection but it is important to find ways to counter that. For example, you could try writing down some positives in order to keep your confidence and motivation up. Try listing 3 things you are great at, or 3 accomplishments you are proud of!

Keep Moving Forward

Rejection can definitely tempt you to hit the pause button on applying to jobs but it is important to try and avoid this. The best way to recover is to keep applying and networking. For all you know, the next job you apply to could be a far better opportunity than the one you just lost. 

Rejection is not failure, it is proof you are trying. Every successful professional has been told ‘no’ more than once, what matters most is how you handle the rejection and what you do after. Take the lesson and keep the momentum, your ‘yes’ is coming!