4 Ways to Handle Rejection in Your Job Search

How do you Handle Rejection in you Job search?. The truth is no matter how strong you think you are, rejection hurts. Even if the email is polite like ” I’m sorry, we regret to inform you…” or if even if is a complete silence after interview, it can also hurt. If you are always going for job hunting, you might already know how rejection can be like. But the sweet thing is you are not alone, and there is always a way you can turn rejection into a blessing more like ”Every disappointment, is a blessing”. So rejection can’t kill you it will only make you stronger.

In this master piece we will explore how you can deal with rejection, tips that will help you have a stronger shell, and we will also answer some of the popular questions people ask relating to this topic. Sit back grab your popcorn and let the magic begins!!

What is Rejection?

According to Oxford learners advanced dictionary, rejection can be seen as the act of being dismissed, or not accepted, whether when looking for a job or seeking for help. In short rejection is the act of not getting what you get or hoped for.

According to psychology rejection can cause emotional pain because humans are inherently social beings that wants connections, validation and acceptance. That is why when turned down, they take it personal. Most people go depressed after being rejected, some feel its their fault while others blame it on nature for not giving them good luck.

Why do I Get Rejected?

The thing is rejection just happens, that does not mean you are not qualified or underserving. However some factors can cause rejection some of them are:

Competition: We are living in a competitive world, and there are other people that can have relevant experience and qualification than you. So you should strive on becoming top applicants or candidates
Cultural Fit: Most times employers look out more for candidates that align with their cultural values. In cases like this there is nothing you can do.
Internal Factors: Most companies might decide to stop hiring, reallocate budgets or restructure positions, because of certain reasons.

How Humans Feel About Rejection

As said before rejection is normal, you can’t get everything you want. However rejection might feel worst because it taps to:

Fear Of Failure: Most times if rejected you will start asking yourself questions, if you have a bright future at all or does that mean you don’t have the abilities. This is how most people feel after rejection.

Fear Of Judgement: Imagine applying for a scholarship with your friend and you are the only one to be disqualified. You will start feeling like your friends are now seeing you as bad luck or not good fit.

Loss of Control: Not being able to influence the outcome can feel frustrating.

But Why Does Job Rejection Feels So Personal?

We are going to start by addressing a big elephant in the room. Why does rejection feels so devastating. Now I will tell you, it’s sincerely because job hunting is not by your skills or resume. Job hunting is about your identity. Most times when we apply for a position we often say. ” This is who I am and this is what I have to offer” . And when rejected it can feel like they rejected us as a person.

But the sincere truth is rejection is not personal, I’m not saying this to make you feel good, is just the truth. Its often about the company internal need, timing, and other candidates fits. It’s not about you. I know sometimes you might apply for a job and it will be given to someone less qualified, I understand that feelings, but I want you to know that some hiring decisions is not just about qualifications, there are subjective factors you don’t know about.

How To Overcome Rejection

Sincerely you can’t just overcome or forget about rejection out of the blue, especially when you feel you are the best person for that position, or you were rejected because of your person (This includes societal status, appearance, tribe, and connection). However below are some of the ways you can overcome rejection as a boss:

1.See Rejection as Redirection

I always tell people that every disappointment you go through today, can be a blessing in the future. Sometimes rejection does not mean the end of the road, but just a way to redirect you to the right direction. Rejection helps you see the mistakes and a version version of yourself. Haven’t you heard of situations where someone was rejected for a job they applied for, and later got a better job offer? .

Tip To Help

See rejection as a feed, every rejection is an opportunity to learn. So if you did not get the job ask the recruiter why he did not give you the job, with that you can know the mistakes you made and do not repeat them again.

Step 2: Address Your Inner Critic

I want you to be very honest, If rejected what’s the first thing that comes to your mind? I know you might ask yourself if you are not good enough. Now that question is your biggest problem. Get Rid of it!! . That is just a perspective is not fact, and with that kind of mindset it will be difficult of you.

Tip To Address your inner critic

Rebuild Your Confidence Celebrate Small Wins: Did you land an interview? That’s a win! Not everyone makes it that far.

Learn how to be positive: Your thoughts should not be ” I will never get hired” Instead it should be” This is the right opportunity for me”

Lean on Your Support System: You know who your biggest supporter is, this are people that will always remind you that you are the prize. It can be your family or close friends.

3. Adapt Your Strategy

The big question is: Have you take out time to know the mistake in your application, or you just move on after rejection? I want you to understand that most times rejection is not about you but your approach. So take note of your last mistakes and work on them.

Tips to Adapt Your Strategy

Tailor Your Applications Customize your resume and cover letter for each role.

Use keywords from the job description to show alignment.

Research the company deeply. When you know their mission and challenges, you can position yourself as the solution.

Lets look at one example a story of my very good friend Alex, an entry-level marketer, sent out 50 generic resumes without getting a single callback. Frustrated, he decided to focus on quality over quantity. For one position, he researched the company’s recent campaigns and included a personalized idea in his cover letter. That effort led to an interview and, eventually, a job offer.

Step 4 Taking Proper Care of Yourself

For the last time I will remind you that you are the prize, take proper care of yourself. Mot people attend interviews looking unkept and hungry, I want you to know that your physical appearance matters, it say a lot about people first impression of you, don’t over look dressing well.

I know job hunting can feel like a full time job especially when you are trying different opportunities and none is working. Just take your time and refuel your spirit. You Got This!!

Tips That You May Find Helpful

Balance work and rest

Set daily goals for application

Exercise, mediate and indulge in fun activities this will help to put body and soul together

Be grateful for little achievements, this will help you reposition your mindset.

What To Consider When Facing Job Rejection

When facing rejection You need to understand you are not alone, millions of people are passing through same predicament as you, so its normal. However here are key factors to consider to help you navigate the setback and improve for future opportunities:

Rejection is not personal
Feedback is a gift that help you become a better person
Resilience is key
Growth over comfort
Your emotional health should not be tampered with it matters a lot
Rejection is redirection; More like a a guide to the right path
Your Job strategy matters

References

Heathfield, S. M. (2023). How to Ask for Feedback After a Job Rejection. The Balance Careers. Retrieved from https://www.thebalancecareers.com

LinkedIn Learning (2023). Top Skills for Job Seekers in 2023. LinkedIn. Retrieved from https://www.linkedin.com

Conclusion

Keep Learning and Growing Take online courses to upskill. Platforms like Coursera and LinkedIn Learning offer affordable options. Attend networking events or join professional groups. Sometimes, the best opportunities come from connections, not applications.

Questions Most People Ask

Question 1. How many times do I need to be Rejected before getting a job

It varies, but research shows most people get multiple rejections before securing a role. Persistence pays off—keep going!

Question 2: Should I follow up after being rejected?

Yes, but keep it professional. Express gratitude for the opportunity and ask for feedback to improve.

For example: “Thank you for considering me for [Position]. I’m disappointed but grateful for the chance to interview. Could you share any insights to help me grow for future opportunities?”

Q3: How do I stop taking rejection personally?

Understand that rejection often reflects the company’s priorities, not your abilities. Focus on factors you can control, like improving your skills and applications.

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