Keeping Doors Open After Rejection

A Professional's Guide

Applying to new jobs or graduate programs can be a daunting experience, often filled with more rejections than acceptances. It's easy to feel discouraged and lose hope, but remember, you're not alone in this journey. I've been there too. When applying for my Ph.D. program, it took three years of persistent efforts before I was finally admitted – and even then, it was because someone else decided not to attend, and their spot opened up for me to fill. After graduating, I applied to 275 jobs, facing rejection or silence from 99% of them. These experiences taught me a valuable lesson: rejection is an integral part of the process, and learning to manage it is crucial.

Applying and interviewing for a job inevitably leads you to envision yourself in the role, fostering an emotional connection with both the company and the position. When you learn that you didn't make the final cut, it can feel like a personal rejection. However, it's crucial to remember that this isn't the end of your relationship with the company. Now more than ever, you need to invest in maintaining that connection.

I've encountered numerous situations where candidates were initially turned down, only to receive another call from the company a month or two later. Sometimes, this happens because the chosen candidate didn't work out or because the applicant left such a strong impression that the company is considering them for a different role.

The key takeaway? Don't burn bridges. Your professional journey is long, and today's rejection could be tomorrow's opportunity. Here are some valuable tips to keep these professional connections alive and thriving.

Immediate Response

• Express gratitude: Thank the interviewer or hiring manager for their time and consideration.

• Show disappointment professionally: It's okay to express disappointment, but do so graciously.

• Request feedback: Ask for constructive feedback on your application or interview performance.

Follow-up Communication

• Send a thoughtful email: Within a week of rejection, send a personalized message.

• Reiterate your interest in the company

• Mention specific aspects of the job or company that impressed you

• Express hope for future opportunities

• Connect on professional networks: Add interviewers on LinkedIn with a personalized connection request.

Continuous Engagement

• Follow the company: Stay updated on the company's news and developments.

• Engage with content: Like, comment, or share the company's social media posts when relevant.

• Attend industry events: Look for opportunities to meet company representatives at conferences or networking events.

Professional Development

• Address feedback: If you received constructive criticism, work on improving those areas.

• Upskill: Acquire new skills or certifications relevant to the position you applied for.

• Share progress: If appropriate, update the hiring manager on significant professional developments.

Reapplication Strategy

• Timing is key: Wait an appropriate amount before reapplying (usually 6-12 months).

• Highlight growth: When reapplying, emphasize new skills or experiences you've gained.

• Reference previous application: Mention your previous interest and how you've developed since then.

Networking Opportunities

• Informational interviews: Request informational interviews with other employees in the company.

• Industry connections: Leverage any connections made during the interview process for broader networking.

• Referral potential: Stay in touch with your contacts; they might refer you for future openings.

Maintaining Perspective

• Stay positive: Remember that rejection is often not personal and can be due to various factors.

• Learn from the experience: Treat each application and interview as a learning opportunity.

• Keep options open: Continue exploring other opportunities while maintaining this relationship.

Long-term Relationship Building

• Periodic check-ins: Every few months, send a brief, friendly update to your contact at the company.

• Offer value: Share interesting industry news or insights that might be valuable to them.

• Be patient: Building professional relationships takes time; don't expect immediate results.

Remember: The goal is to position yourself as a mature, professional candidate who would be an asset to their team. By maintaining a positive relationship, you increase your chances of being considered for future opportunities, whether at this company or through your expanded network.

Looking over my career, some of my closest professional connections were developed when I was rejected for a position at their institutions. Careers are long and windy, so maintain those connections.

Good luck,

Dr. A