Starting off in the big career world can be really scary and confusing stuff! You never really know if your applications are any good, whether you are saying the right things, or if you’ve managed to crack those interview techniques.
Just when you finally think you’re making good progress you get hit with a job rejection leaving you feeling down in the dumps and before you know it you’re suffering with the ‘am I good enough?’ syndrome. You may have only been applying for a part time job in Primark or work experience at your local newspaper but when you’re trying to build your skills and portfolio rejection is the last thing you need.
If it’s any consolation, it happens to the best of us – FYI, Simon Cowell is said to have been rejected from a job at Tesco! Soooo…with that being said, here are some tips to help you bounce back from your minor setback.
1. Get it all out
You might want to cry, you may feel extremely angry, but whatever you do, get mad…then get over it! Exercise can also help with this. Try to take your mind off feeling down by spending time with your friends or family by doing something fun.
2. Get feedback
As you probably know already, a lot of jobs won’t always provide you with feedback on how you can improve your chances for future reference. Nevertheless there’s no harm in picking up the phone and contacting them, like ASAP – if they’ve said no to you already, what else do you have to lose?
3. Review your approach
Did they give you feedback? No. That’s okay, do it yourself or ask a close friend or family member to help you out. Practice mock interviews and keep a folder of your old job applications so you can see how you answer questions. You might spot common mistakes or areas for improvement. Make sure you take the time out to perfect your approach so you can build the best version of yourself for the next time round.
4. Take it all in
After seeing where you have been going wrong, don’t beat yourself up about it, just accept this experience as a learning curve. If you applied for a job well out of your league, next time ensure you have the accurate skills and credentials that the employers are looking for. This is where voluntary work, internships, apprenticeships or some form of practical work experience is fundamental to build up your portfolio.
5. Be determined
One rejection doesn’t mean it’s the end of the world! Keep knocking on that door. If you have been applying for work experience, the first person you contact may tell you no, but their colleague in another department might just be enthusiastic about the idea of having you on board. The moral of the story is, contact a whole bunch of people!
6. Stay positive
I know it can be hard to stay positive when you’ve been rejected but in situations like this, look past the obstacle and find the opportunity in it. In your case, one door closed is another opportunity to BANGon a new one. Just think of it as a recipe… every step you take is another ingredient to add towards your winning formula. You’ve got this, just keep going.
(Cover photo via weheartit)
