There is nothing worse than receiving a phone call or email to inform you that your application for a position has been rejected and that you have not moved on to the next stage of the hiring process.
Reviewing, considering, and then submitting a job application can be time-consuming and can create emotions of excitement and hope about landing that position, which could be the position and company of your dreams.
No matter at what stage of the process, whether it’s the hiring manager/recruiter’s first email communication to let you know you were unsuccessful, to the final stages of the process and informed by a call, how you deal with rejection can be so important as having a strong resume and cover letter.
What people may forget, normally your app is tracked every step of the way, each and every communication you have; phone, email, or face-to-face interview is recorded in your candidate file in the recruiting software. Leaving a lasting and professional impression at every step of the process is essential.
With any rejection, emotions can understandably surface: For some, quickly hitting the reply button in email could have a lasting impact on any future applications with the company.
- If you receive a rejection email, please do not respond immediately. File it away and come back to it once you’ve had time to think.
- Only respond to a rejection email once you’re feeling in a more positive frame of mind and know that any response you submit will be professional.
- Remember: A recruiter/hiring manager’s time is just as important as yours. They may have spent two to three weeks working through the process, including reviewing and reporting on your application.
- Since emails are often logged in recruiting software, you might consider sending a “thank you” email for taking the time to consider your application and wishing them well with their job search and performance.
- With an email rejection, you might consider asking “is there anything I can do, or gain experience in/with, that might improve my chances of getting a job with the company in the future?”
Remember!
Your email interactions may be recorded in your candidate file. When you apply for future positions with the company, even if you are much further along and with a different department, your communications could be seen. Keeping it professional and attractive will certainly be a positive for you.
Many recruiters and hiring managers have seen time and time again that applicants react through emotions, stress, or because they are unemployed with a quick email that can include highly inappropriate language, even threats of physical harm.
No matter what your situation or circumstances are, take a moment, don’t respond right away. Communicating in such an unprofessional manner will simply shut down any future opportunities with that business.
Rejected phones
Typically, phone refusals are completed when you have conducted a face-to-face interview. Usually, you would have established a connection or rapport with the person you are dealing with, but it is important to handle rejection professionally.
Unlike an email rejection where you can take the time to consider any email response, over the phone you’ll need to think on your feet.
- Once again, thank the person for their time and thank them for giving you the opportunity to demonstrate your skills and experiences.
- Feedback: Ask for feedback, what you did well, what you did not do so well, what you could have done differently, and what you can do professionally that would help you in future applications for such roles.
- Have vision: Ask them if they might consider you for the position in the future, should the position become vacant again (if you want to work for the company). Let them know that you are interested in the position in the future and in working with the business.
- Always have a rejection plan – this will ensure that if you receive such a call, you can deal with it quickly.
- Follow up: Consider sending a thank you email. Let them know that you appreciate their time and consideration, and hopefully you’ll be able to work with the company in the future.
There are other things to consider and what you can do to handle rejections. These will be based on the role, the company, and where you are in the process.
The most important thing, which is difficult, do not let your emotions dominate. Doing so could lead you to react in an unprofessional way.
Dealing with a job application rejection the right way could help you later. This is very important when applying through a recruitment agency that hires for a wide range of roles and companies.
A momentary lapse of emotion and professionalism could cost you, not one company, but many.
