Dealing with Job Rejection

This piece was written by freelancer Bethany Voyse

Looking for a job can be an incredibly stressful time, especially if it’s your first foray into the world of employment. Arguably, the hardest part of job searching is the inevitable rejection that comes with sending off applications and CV’s – So how do we overcome the self-doubt and negativity that comes with rejection? Here are a few useful things to remember when it comes to job rejection.

1. It happens to everyone!

It’s easy to take rejection personally and think that you are the problem and no one else faces this – but it couldn’t be farther from the truth! Remember – usually only one person will get the job you’ve applied for, so many people will have received the same rejection. Pretty much everyone you know in life will have been rejected for a job at some point in their life – Job searching can take time – and that’s okay! It’s important to be kind to yourself and remember that if you weren’t right for a job – the job probably wasn’t right for you either!

2. Use it to your advantage!

Whilst not every employer will offer feedback on applications / interviews – it’s ALWAYS worth asking for! It may be daunting and feel as though you’re putting salt on a wound but remember – it’s advice that will help you grow! Perhaps there’s some minor discrepancies on your CV? Maybe you came across differently in an interview than intended? All feedback is good feedback and if put into practice, will help you in future job opportunities!

3. Keep going!

Whilst it may be tempting to give up after harsh rejections – the more you apply and keep going, the better chance you get of gaining opportunities! Often the hardest part is getting going, so make sure to build on your momentum. Keep a positive mental attitude – who says the next opportunity won’t be your dream job? You never know until you try!

4. Be kind to your mind!

It can be daunting to get started applying for opportunities, especially if you feel you don’t have the right skill set or experience, but each attempt is something worth celebrating! Try and form positive reinforcement’s with applying for opportunities, allow yourself the time to sit back and say, “I’m really proud of myself for doing this!” or practice other forms of self-care to nurture a positive attitude towards yourself and facing difficult decisions!