Take the High Road: How to Handle a Job Search Rejection with Confidence

A job search rejection feels like the end of the world. You believe you are a great candidate for a job. Yet, in spite of your best efforts, you fall short of landing the role you want. Now, you have to rebound. What you do from here has the potential to impact your career. 

If you are dealing with rejection in your job search, you are not alone. Many job seekers miss out on their dream roles every day. Respond with poise and confidence, and you can bounce back from your rejection. 

Here are tips to help you take the high road and handle your job search rejection in a positive way.

Reflect on Your Job Search Rejection

Think about why a company rejected you. If possible, ask the recruiter or anyone you spoke with during the interview process for feedback. Find out why another candidate was chosen over you. This gives you insights into what you can do to avoid future job search rejections. 

With feedback, you'll know what you need to do to enjoy job search success. Apply the feedback to your quest to land a job that suits you perfectly. This will help you avoid mistakes as you search for your ideal role. 

Grow Your Professional Network

Send a LinkedIn request to anyone who you engaged with before you were rejected for a job. Just because this opportunity did not work out the way you want does not mean the same thing will happen if new vacancies open up with this company. With professional connections associated with the business, you are well-equipped to capitalize on these vacancies as soon as they become available.  

Keep your LinkedIn profile up to date, too. As companies search online for top talent, they could find your profile. At this point, they may reach out to see if you are interested in a wide range of job opportunities. 

Level Up Your Resume and Cover Letter

Fine-tune your resume and cover letter. Your application materials should align with the job you want. Consider what employers want out of candidates. This can help you tailor your application materials accordingly. 

Your resume should highlight the skills that line up with the job to which you are applying. On top of that, it should include details about your experience and why an employer should consider your candidacy above others.

Meanwhile, your cover letter should account for your career interests and how they correspond with the company you want to join and the role it is offering. It should also be concise and to the point. If your cover letter makes a great impression, it's likely to lead to an interview. And once a hiring manager meets you, they may quickly see why you deserve to join their team.

Ready to Rebound from a Job Search Rejection?

Ascend Staffing helps job seekers take the next step forward in their career. We offer tips to guide you through your job search. Our professional recruiters can connect you with top companies in your industry in search of quality job candidates at any time. 

We are here to assist you as you recover from a job search rejection. For more information about how we can help you with your job search, get in touch with us today.