You’ve just been told you didn’t get the job. It’s kind of a knock, and your head is now going over every reason possible for not getting it. Take a breath, now what?
Rejection is never a nice feeling, no matter how it happens in your life. When it comes to finding a job, it can be even more terrible. Rejection however is inevitable when applying for jobs and avoiding rejection will also ALWAYS make you miss opportunities as well.
Every single person has experienced rejection and had to deal with it in the world of work. Now you have that in mind, let's look at your step-by-step process to keep on keeping on.
STEP ONE: Get the feedback you deserve.
Don't let your head get away from you, as for the feedback. This is going to help you understand the reason you didn’t get the job, more times than not it won't be as bad as you think. It may just be a cultural fit, you may be over-skilled, it may have been filled internally. Get that feedback if you can get an understanding of if/where you went wrong you can improve on this and reduce the possibility of it happening in the future, or you can get critique on how to tailor your resume and folio.
If you're curious what those reasons could be, take a read of our article "Why Was I Rejected From That Job!?".
STEP TWO: Take action on your feedback .
Now is the time for reflection, take away any pride and reflect. Make your plan and address your feedback. If it is folio advice make those edits, if your resume is out of date – update it! If you have been given advice on your soft skills, fond ways to improve or up-soft-skill. Take some time as it will only benefit you when applying for the next job or that next interview that is around the corner.
STEP THREE: Step up your searching .
You’ve done your reflection, you’ve made your edits, and you’ve address your skills. Use this to help step up your search and refine exactly what it is you're looking for. Your feedback may have included some truth in proficiency or value that you may want to address when applying for other jobs. There could’ve been some really positive feedback that you emphasise in the next step of your search.
STEP FOUR: Don’t take it personally and get back out there.
You are now battle hardened, you’ve reflected and know your value! Keep the chin-up and stay positive. This situation may have been out of your control, but your response is not. Fear of rejection correlates with missed opportunities (we’re sure there are some studies done on this), use your feedback and get applying.
Always remember the very well known phrase… There are plenty more job fish in the world of work sea… You weren't rejected because you're not good enough. You may have just not be the right fit for that role.
How can Artisan help?
We specialise in creative and digital recruitment and have been in the industry for over 24 years and have heard every rejection. If you want help with your folio and resume, advice on how to get back on the horse after a job rejection or just looking for your next gig. Give Artisan a call on (03) 9514 1000 or email us.