Everyone, now say it again like you mean it – “everyone” experiences rejection. And when it comes to the job search in the current economy, experiencing rejection in the midst of unemployment or when the job you’re in is making you absolutely miserable can dampen anyone’s enthusiasm. But everyone, including you can get through this rough patch and back on the road to success. Here a six ways to do just that…
- Try to not take things personally (really!). If an employer doesn’t make you an offer after the second interview, it doesn’t mean you’re a bad candidate or that you can’t do the job well–it just means you’re not the right fit for them. Get over it and move on (see # 6 below).
- Leave the past to the past. Often when we’re turned down, it’s can be normal to start calling up rejections from the past, making the current rejection seem worse than it really is. This can lead to second-guessing yourself and will inevitably drag out the recovery period. Instead, when you don’t land a job that you were positive you’d be perfect for, think about how those old disappointments led to bigger and better things. Look to the future and figure out where to take your next shot.
- Rise above it. Being unemployed or in a job you hate really, really %#$!@! (use your own favorite term or phrase here). Getting rejected can fit right into that category. There’s no great way of dealing with it. But when you’re turned down for potential positions during your job search, you should still respond courteously with a thank-you note. They may have crushed your dreams, but if you show some class, they might pass your name on to someone else who has a better opportunity for you!
- Create an ego-booster. If you’re sure you did nothing wrong in your interviews and you can’t help but take “no” personally, use your thank you e-mail as an opportunity to ask them what areas you could improve on. You might get some valuable information you can use in your next interview.
- Have some fun. Rejections can take tax the mind, body, and spirit. Be sure to take time to let out your frustrations. Grab a beer with friends, head to the nearest theme park, or do whatever it is you do to take your mind off things.
- Be sure you have a Plan B. One of the worst things you can do during an extended job search is put all your efforts and hopes into one or two job openings. That can be a real time and energy waster at the very least. Not landing that one perfect job can feel horrible, so keep your options open with other positions to fall back on and soften the blow. Stay proactively engaged. Don’t sit around
waiting for someone to make something happen for you, create those opportunities yourself!
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