Let’s get this straight: no one enjoys getting turned down for a job, especially when you’ve done a lot of preparation to tailor your CV, write a cover letter and get that application in. However, not all rejections should be taken negatively. You can turn these knockbacks into a career development opportunity. The way you handle rejection is key. Don’t let one rejection make you doubt your abilities, as this will affect your future job applications.

When that rejection call or email comes in, here are a few things to remember if you’re wondering how to handle it:

ASK FOR FEEDBACK
This is a great opportunity to gain some insight into how you can improve your skills and your overall job search. It will allow you to find out why they didn’t hire you, allowing you to get some useful information about the specific things you can polish for your next interview. Although it may not feel like it at the time, the potential job you lost out on will not be the only job to exist.

DON’T TAKE IT PERSONALLY
It is easy to take rejections to heart and put yourself down, blaming nobody but yourself for the lost job opportunity. However, it’s important to try not to read too much into it; if you tried your best, there is little else you could have done.

REVIEW AND REFLECT
Once you have come to terms with the employer’s decision, take this as an opportunity to think about the feedback you have received. Go back through the job application, think about how you prepared and researched, and figure out where you can improve. Work out what went well, and what may not have gone so well, and use this to improve your chances of the next job application being accepted.

TAKE THE POSITIVES AND MOVE ON
Take the feedback given and your reflection as a positive, and move forward with your job
application process with an open mind. See each setback as a challenge to grow both your
understanding and your ability to bounce back after disappointment. Being able to overcome
setbacks will increase your chances of landing the right role. Stay positive – your next job is waiting for you!