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Getting through to the interview stage is a huge accomplishment in itself. Yet, when we get a post-interview rejection letter, it stings so much more than the cursory note accompanying an initial rejection.

Everyone eventually loses out on a job they felt they were perfect for. The trick to getting the next job is to turn that rejection into a positive.

Are you trying to bounce back from a painful rejection? Use these tips to turn your experience into an opportunity.

Reflect on What You Learned

The first step to turning rejection into something positive is to change your perspective. Sure, it stings, but you probably learned something along the way.

Ask yourself:

  • What did you learn about what you want from your career?
  • What did you learn about what employers want?
  • What did you feel you excelled at?
  • Was there anything you struggled with?

For example, you may have found that what you want from the role and what the employer wanted weren’t aligned. So, now you know what to look for as you search through job listings to maximize the chance of being on the same page.

Have a good long think about these questions and use your answers to refine your search as you apply for new jobs or sit new interviews.

Tip: asking for feedback will help you get the employer’s perspective and better answer these questions, particularly if you feel stuck.

Use the Rejection as a Resilience Exercise

Resilience is a skill, and it’s a desirable one for employers and for leading the life you want in general.

A rejection will test your resilience, but you can use the opportunity as a resilience exercise and come out stronger.

As you navigate the days after you get the news, use some of the following techniques to build your resilience and bounce back faster:

  1. Face your fears in some way. Maybe that’s calling the hiring manager and asking for feedback. Regardless, don’t let fear get in your way of moving forward.
  2. Practice self-compassion. Acknowledge your feelings, remember that rejection happens to everyone, and accept that you did the best you could with the information you had at the time.
  3. Reflect on your Ikigai. Rather than wondering what to do next, reflect on your purpose. An Ikigai activity can help you put the experience into perspective and help you find a way forward.

Finding out you didn’t get the job can be rough, especially if you believe you would have thrived in the role. Rather than wondering what if, dedicate your time to finding out what could be by reflecting on your experience and building personal resilience.

Are you looking for a new role? Let us help you get your next, “yes.”Get started with your job search today.

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