How to deal with job rejection
Rejection is the most common outcome in any job search, which does not make the email that starts with "Unfortunately" any easier to read. Here is how to put it in perspective, take what is useful from it, and get back to the search without letting one no set the tone for the week.
What a rejection usually means
- Many roles get far more qualified applicants than they can interview.
- Internal candidates, referrals and budget changes decide a lot of searches before anyone reads your resume closely.
- A rejection after an interview often comes down to a small difference between two good candidates.
- It is information about one opening at one company, not a verdict on your career.
Give it a time limit
Let yourself be annoyed for an evening. Then close the email, write down one thing you would do differently, if anything, and move on. Some people set a rule: one rejection, one new application the next morning.
When to ask for feedback
- After a final round, a short, gracious reply asking for one piece of feedback is reasonable.
- Expect many companies not to answer. Legal and policy reasons often stop them.
- If you hear the same feedback more than once, that is the part worth acting on.
Keep the search moving
- Keep several applications in progress so no single one carries all your hope.
- Track your numbers. A low interview rate points to your resume, a low offer rate points to interviews.
- Talk to people. Referrals often get further than cold applications.
- Protect your days off. A tired search is a slower search.
And when you need a laugh
Turn the feeling into a joke with our free rejection letter generator: get rejected for any job in seconds, then share it with the group chat.
Frequently asked questions
Is it normal to get rejected from most jobs I apply to?
Yes. In most searches the majority of applications end in a rejection or no reply. That is the math of the process, not a sign you are doing everything wrong.
Should I reply to a rejection email?
If you interviewed, a short thank you reply is a good idea. It keeps the door open for future roles.
How do I stay motivated after many rejections?
Set small weekly goals you control, like applications sent and people contacted, instead of outcomes you do not control. If the search is weighing on you a lot, talking to friends, a career coach or a counselor can help.
