This job rejection might be the straw that broke the camel's back.

68 Comments

1. JanetFebruary 9,2022 at 2:58PM UTC

   I know how that feels, when you tick every box in the job description and have the background and experience that cannot be "taught", them saying that they have a more qualified candidate is maddening.

2. Beth ElaineFebruary 9,2022 at 3:14PM UTC

   Or they have a candidate who’s friends with so and so of they went to insert prestigious place.

3. Jeslyn PattersonFebruary 9,2022 at 3:26PM UTC

   I've been through this and it pulls at you in a sad way. Think of it this way, it wasn't meant for you. The Universe has something better setup for you, that will challenge you in ways you'll love. This position was setup for the candidate they choose to give it to. This position might have set you up for failure and the Universe has decided, you shouldn't go through something that isn't meant for the betterment of you. I keep this in mind whenever I receive rejection, then I say "On to the next one". Good Luck!

4. AnonymousFebruary 9,2022 at 3:57PM UTC

   You're definitely not alone. At this point I just take things one day at a time.

   I try to carry the mindset in Jeslyn's post, but some days it's really harder than others.

5. Barb HansenFebruary 9,2022 at 4:26PM UTC

   As the old adage goes, "it's not you, it's them"

   But even knowing that, it's hard not to feel rejected. You weren't rejected, someone else just fit better for them.

   So, don't let their decision affect you. Keep moving forward.

6. Sabrina CortesFebruary 9,2022 at 7:23PM UTC

   I know it's easier said than done, but try not to take it personally. It means that there is something better out there for you and this is part of you moving forward to getting to that role. Maybe this door closed because there were unknowns - like maybe the company wasn't a good fit for you or other unknowns like poor management or toxic work environment. Keep your chin up and don't let this stop you from pursuing your goals. You got this!!!

7. AnonymousFebruary 10,2022 at 2:24PM UTC

   All the comments are true. But let me be contrary.

   Is there anything negative that you're putting out unconsciously? If t's been a long time of searching, with many rejections, it is hard and weighs on us.

   I too suggest you ask for feedback and try to approach each new situation and opportunity with freshness, eagerness and positivity. It's easier said than done I know. Anyway, sending hugs and wishes for the next, better opportunity for you!

8. AnonymousFebruary 10,2022 at 6:03PM UTC

   You may think an opportunity was made for you, but it simply was not YOUR TIME.

   I spent the past 4 years, while still employed, looking to get out of my dept. I applied and landed final interviews each time, but to my dismay...someone else was "more qualified." Of course I was hurt, but by my 3rd posting I channeled my frustration into an opportunity for growth with my interview skills. I now consider myself a pro and rarely go into interviews nervous.

   I recently applied and landed a new offer last month. Something, in my heart, felt different this time as opposed to the other interviews I've participated in. My time FINALLY came! And I now look back at previous postings with certain hiring managers and laugh at the internal issues that have arisen or even the individuals who got the job, instead of me, that ended up quitting or being fired.

9. RoseFebruary 11,2022 at 4:06AM UTC

   How did you improve your interview skills? I am terrible at it and I know that is what is preventing me from landing a job. I always get the interview but it is so hard for me to "sell" myself because of my culture and background. I'm thinking about hiring a career coach/acting coach perhaps...I prepare and write out questions and I still struggle because I get so nervous.

10. rgstaffing@bellsouth.netFebruary 11,2022 at 2:13PM UTC

    i learned recently that companies do not hire the nervous because they believe that if you cannot manage your nerves on an interview, you will not be able to manage the stress of the job. I never knew that. I would recommend working with someone who can help you get that back under control so that you do not sabotage yourself.

11. AnonymousFebruary 14,2022 at 2:34PM UTC

    I first start off with my mindset, "It's not an interview, simply an open conversation." This helps to alleviate any nerves I have. Prayer, meditation, anything that best suits YOU to relieve your nerves.

    In addition to preparing questions, I also list out my areas of excellence/struggles. I also document occasions where I've had challenging times and how I've overcome. Not sure if it's me, but most of my interviews circle around the same questions such as:

    Tell me about yourself?

    How do you stay organized?

    What's something you've had to overcome and steps taken?

    With my responses, I'm direct, to the point, and try to avoid trailing off.

    Feel out the personality of your interviewer. Add a laugh in there if it's fitting, but most importantly... act human and avoid being robotic, which stems from calming your nerves prior.

12. NataliaFebruary 10,2022 at 9:20PM UTC

    Keep going!
    After 20+ interviews in 1 year & not working for 21 months, someone finally saw my value! And I'm so happy ? I ended up where I did! It honestly only gets better! Been there 3 weeks now & loving the culture & people I'm working with. Trust the timing & process! You got this!

13. MonicaFebruary 11,2022 at 6:57AM UTC

    You say it wasn't a job you really wanted. Why would you want to settle for a role you aren't interested in? How do you expect the powers that be to give you a job that you didn't want? What's meant for you will be for you. I applied for over 40 jobs with my employer who kept saying no. I applied externally and eventually someone hired me. It can be very discouraging, but you have to keep going.

14. AnonymousFebruary 11,2022 at 1:13PM UTC

    You applied to the same company 40 times? If that’s what you meant, what did you differently when you finally got hired?

15. marioFebruary 11,2022 at 1:38PM UTC

    unfortunately circumstances probably apply more than personal effort in such a case. Perhaps the 40th time the company didn't have an inside hire on tap.

16. MonicaFebruary 13,2022 at 8:08PM UTC

    Yes, I applied with my former employer of 18 years 40 times! They hired someone from outside, inside with less experience, someone's wife/kid whatever. When I say my self esteem was shot....I was a good worker and my annual reviews were good, but I couldn't move.

    I started researching how to improve my resume so it wouldn't show my age. I updated my LinkedIn and started following the companies I wanted to work for. When I did land interviews, I would ask them to keep me in mind and I'd occasionally drop an email to the HR rep. I realized they weren't going to let me promote, so I started applying externally. I landed my current role in 2018. As frustrating as it is, you have to pull yourself up and keep going.

17. AnonymousFebruary 11,2022 at 1:21PM UTC

    i understand. As I like to tell candidates and now that i am a lot more experienced (and been through many applications/rejections myself), i realize it is never a lack of skill of the candidate but rather it was just not the right fit/ right timing with the organization and the 'perfect match' will come along and you're just being redirected to it on every rejection.

18. Shelby CFebruary 11,2022 at 1:31PM UTC

    Exactly!
    I also tell them it is great practice for when the perfect fit comes along. Job interviews aren't ever a waste of time.

    Plus, as an HR professional I was paid to judge character and gauge readiness. If it was a job that you didn't want, I would have personally selected someone less qualified who was excited about the opportunity.

    I also want to tell you that on a personal level, one of my best friends had to take temp work because no one would hire her in an industry that is notoriously understaffed, unappreciated, and not paid well, but that's what she wanted to do. It's her passion. On her 68th interview, she was hired and now she's in management.

19. AnonymousFebruary 11,2022 at 1:37PM UTC

    You can’t see it now but in hindsight you will realize not getting this job is the best thing ever.

    What is not for you will never pass you. Your time will come.

20. Carol MaxwellFebruary 11,2022 at 1:45PM UTC

    I think you are being too hard on yourself. Without knowing anything else about the company, job, etc, I think it is almost impossible to predict the outcome of an interview. Sometimes, people are reluctant to tell the truth, especially if you have the qualifications for the job. People are hired because somebody on the team just "thinks this person will "meld well" with the team, or they like the college that another candidate graduated from, or they lost the funding, or a higher-up decided to promote someone internally, and at least a dozen other "reasons". In general, it is rare to get legitimate feedback after an interview.

    That said, I think it is often a good idea to ask for feedback about the interview and your background. That may or may not be helpful to you, depending upon what they say, but it is worth a shot (but take the feedback with a grain of salt.) (I'm 64, still working, and have fired several people over my career and done a lot of hiring. The interview process is challenging because the hirer never really knows the person and their real skills and weaknesses until you actually bring them on board, unless they're already working for the company.

    Keep going, and don't let this stay in your head too long. (Good luck on the search.)

21. Mindy SwankFebruary 11,2022 at 1:49PM UTC

    I’ve learned that they’re full of excuses. They just didn’t like something about you (fine, working with them wouldn’t have been good for you anyway), they decided to hire the boss’s daughter, they hired someone who they think can pull in favors or impress someone else, or they just found someone more qualified (which is fair). You never know what kind of asshole you’re really dealing with, so let it roll off your back and move on. You’ll find what’s meant for you. Especially right now!

22. AnonymousFebruary 11,2022 at 2:06PM UTC

    I’ve been there.

    The best thing you can do is ask for feedback from the recruiter (if you interviewed for the position). That could prove helpful for your next interview/application. It’s possible the other candidate may have sold him/herself a bit better to decision makers. On the flip side..Lets be honest, sometimes the hiring manager already “has someone in mind”, “someone already queued up for the role”, or “in the pipeline”… yet they have to publish the role to go through the motions for HR. We’ve all seen it… its one of the claimed benefits and drawbacks of “networking” or knowing someone at the company.
    It doesn’t mean you aren’t qualified and talented! Ask for the feedback but try not to dwell on it or ruminate about their rejection. Keep pushing!! Stay focused. Who’s next on your list?

23. rgstaffing@bellsouth.netFebruary 11,2022 at 2:08PM UTC

    i think it is very difficult and my advice would be if you are working through a recruiter to ask for detailed feedback as to why these interviews are not turning into offers. I try to get this kind of feedback for my candidates so that they can correct what they are doing or not doing. It is very helpful and my companies are happy to provide it if asked.

24. AnonymousFebruary 11,2022 at 2:10PM UTC

    Having been in this situation before, I have found in some cases after-the-fact that they already knew who they were going to hire. It was someone already employed, or a choice was made prior, and they were going through the motions of interviewing a set number of people to imply a fair hiring process. Now I really look at who is working for the organization if possible, and if it looks as though there are people there who could easily be promoted into the position, I don't even apply. I know it's just a fishing expedition.

25. Alicia CaleroFebruary 11,2022 at 2:14PM UTC

    I know so much on how you feel because this was me this time last year.
    I had a job, good paying one, but in a toxic environment. It really took a toll on me both, physically and mentally. That said, it took awhile to regain my motivation and confidence but I found and was applying to jobs in earnest, not just the frequent rage apply.

    I was at a point of desperation and really needed another job but I wasn’t about to go from one HAM to another poop storm. Mind you, I have been applying to jobs for 3 years and did not get call backs until December 2020 to February 2021. I had a few job interviews but couldn’t land the job. When I finally got the job interview for a role I KNEW I was more than qualified for. I didn’t end up getting that job and it really saddened me. I had placed a lot of emphasis on getting that job because it seemed so right for me.

    I grieved that opportunity for a few months and kept applying during that time. I never heard back from
    them after reaching out for feedback. Then, I ended up getting an interview for another role AT THE SAME COMPANY.

    I’m overly critical of myself so I really second guessed my preparation techniques….so I tried something a little different. First being, to not place so much emphasis on the job itself. If it’s a fit for you and them, then follow-up and keep trying. My tactic became what can I do better? I had several mock interviews with families, I prepared responses in the STAR method, I had a few questions ready for the panel interview, I took notes during the session, and most of all I focused on being myself through it. Mind you, I’m a nervous wreck through this so I did the best I could.

    A bit of a rant but I landed that job. In my mind, I reflected on the job I didn’t get and why. I think I came off as frazzled and didn’t know anything (even though I did). I had responses for questions that weren’t suited for THAT group. I redid these things for the other interview. I landed that job and have been at this role for a few months.

    Best tactic for me! And you know what? Turns out the job I didn’t get, I am grateful that occurred. More because it wouldn’t have been a fit for me. I am in a better place now.

    Just know that a lot of the selection process involves personal preferences on the hiring managers. You cannot control any of this. But you can control how you show up. If it doesn’t workout, go for a run/weight lift/bike ride (like I did)/ increase the intensity of workouts or anything you do to destress. Fall back to your why on your application process. Keep going. You won’t be motivated everyday but your habits will keep you going. And most of all, find someone to talk to that can be objective. Consider career coaches. I relied heavily on Madeline Mann via LinkedIn and YouTube. She got me to a place where even I wowed myself. She makes a lot of her material free. Someone that I know paid for her services and landed her dream job.

    Good luck and remember that you can do more than you think.

26. HelenFebruary 11,2022 at 2:26PM UTC

    Great advice!

27. HelenFebruary 11,2022 at 2:17PM UTC

    Having been on the other side recently, sifting applications and then taking part in the interviews, I can offer this as consolation.

    Even when you have a great CV or give the interview of your life, sometimes, so do the other interviewees. Then it is really hard when there is only one vacancy. I recently interviewed six candidates and five were outstanding. I am sure they all felt that their interview had gone really well - and it had! In the end, it was something really marginal which had to come into play to decide who would be recruited. That did not mean that the others wouldn't have been as good in the job and I went back and reassured all the applicants that we were so sorry that we could not recruit more than one and that we would contact them again if another vacancy came up in the next six months. Usually it is not possible to know how strong the other applicants are: don't assume it's you - sometimes its just that the final decision is a tough one. Don't get down, keep applying!

28. Melissa MurphyFebruary 11,2022 at 4:30PM UTC

    I'm feeling similarly disheartened after multiple rounds of great interviews, been told that they really enjoyed meeting me, but they decided to go with another candidate.

    Thank you for this perspective. I appreciate your insight. What you said reminds me of watching the different Olympic events. Particularly I was watching the Men's cross-country skiing. At the end of the race right before the last stretch there was a group of 4 athletes that were all vying for first place and just had amazing ability. Ultimately one athlete won, but the difference between the gold medalist and the silver and bronze was tens or hundredths of a second. Truly any one of them had the ability to be the champion. Sometimes its just small circumstances that is the determining factor.

29. HelenFebruary 11,2022 at 10:12PM UTC

    Thank you, I glad it is helpful.

30. Mich.Fr.February 11,2022 at 2:38PM UTC

    I understand your frustration having gone through it many times. The rejection stinks. The putting in the time, energy, and effort with zero return is exhausting. At the end of the day, it's not your job. There may not be any rhyme or reason to it. YOUR job will come at the exact moment it's supposed to. It may take longer than you want, but it will come.

31. AnonymousFebruary 11,2022 at 2:50PM UTC

    That's so tough and I feel for you, I've been there. Although, the times when I thought I had completely lost hope turned into the times I have gotten the best roles. In one case, it wasn't the first one I took, but one that came to me shortly thereafter. Longer story there, but you never know what's around the corner. Also, I don't know if it's helpful, but what helps me is seeing each interviewing process as an opportunity to learn and sharpen my skills. I'm in Product Management, so a lot of interviews involve challenging projects/take home work/testing. It's tough to go through these but, even when I haven't done well, I congratulate myself for trying and see what I can take to the next interview or job. In any case, I hope you feel better, you're doing better than you think you are.

32. AnonymousFebruary 11,2022 at 2:51PM UTC

    this might sound counterintuitive, but I've had this happen many times...for jobs that I really didn't "want" but applied "anyway". Didn't get the job. Often, didn't even get an interview. And you know what? I think that vibe (I really don't want this but I'm applying anyway)- that vibe energy- goes out in the universe and the universe knows this...and we don't get the job. Over time, I've learned to get off the proverbial carousel of applying for jobs and just sit back....and wait. You've got to get out of your current head space. You have to find yourself. Yep...FIND YOURSELF. Then, (and this might take a few mos, a year, or whatever)....then, start apply for new jobs that are TRULY want you want. In the meantime, you might be stuck in a less than desireable job, but you know it's only temporary...because you're working out of your headspace into a more clear vision. The Energy you put off when you apply and interview for the right position will be obvious, and you'll land on your feet. Trust me on this.

33. Leona KimballFebruary 11,2022 at 2:51PM UTC

    This was a struggle for me as well in 2020 and into 2021.
    It was a new experience to not land a job right away when laid off. Relying on the encouragements and support of my business network got me through. Your time to shine in a new role is coming. Keep relationships strong along the way. Continue to hone your skills by seeking certification options or CE credits. Think of all the fabulous new people you will meet and the recommendations they can provide. This will also give you a wonderful story to share when asked the inevitable question "what have you been doing with your time".

34. VenissaFebruary 11,2022 at 2:53PM UTC

    With so much love and support , I’m sure you’ve realised you’re not alone.

    I too was in the same boat till recently. I had to interview with a current company for 6months until I got a role in that company!!!!

    Persistance is key. I know you can feel down and out for putting in a lot of effort for that interview but make sure you take a breather in between, vent to a girlfriend or a few girlfriends and get back in the hunt with renewed vigor!

    Feel free to reach out to me if you need someone to talk to.

    I had someone in Fairygodboss look out for me and I am more than happy to give back here.

35. T ButlerFebruary 11,2022 at 3:19PM UTC

    Keep on going! One never knows what is going on behind the scenes. At a former company I worked at, I was a temp and hired at 6 months so they did not have to pay the agency a fee. Later, a temp to hire was filling the same role as my research assistant, same path I was on when I joined the company. When he was eligible at 6 months to hire, HR rules stated his position had to be posted and I had to interview anyone that posted for it within the company even though my temp to hire was to fill the role! It was "predetermined" and I felt it was a silly rule for HR to make me waste other candidates time for a position that was already filled. It was not all for waste because that temp to hire eventually was promoted out and I had to replace him. One of the candidates I had previously interviewed made a great impression so I reached out to her and asked her to post for the role again and I hired her. So hang in there and never take it too personal! Some HR rules demand positions be interviewed for but the hiring manager may already have a particular candidate they intend to hire. Also, you stated you were qualified - but were you "over qualified"? That can be common too since employers may be afraid you will bail out of the position too soon to advance within or outside the compny.

36. Vondetta CarterFebruary 11,2022 at 3:40PM UTC

    There was a song many years ago by the Impressions..and it simply said"Keep on Pushing".

    Do that and remember your position is just around the corner that will be better than you even hoped or dreamed. Keep on Pushing. if you get a chance, read the words to the song and encourage yourself. Also, you have friends here and beyond saying the same thing.

37. 60isthenew40February 11,2022 at 3:42PM UTC

    Okay, I hear you and have been where you are. A few months ago I applied for what I thought was my dream job, I loved the company, their mission, it met all the criteria I was looking for, etc. I had a GREAT initial interview with the person who would have been my boss, then had a panel interview, which I thought I nailed.

    The next day I got an email from her saying they didn't think I'd be a good fit for the role (a mid- to senior-management position), but they had an opening in their customer service (entry-level!!!!) department if I was interested in that. I was devastated and felt so rejected. Not only did they not want me for the role I was 100% qualified for, they demeaned all my experience and skills by offering me a job someone fresh out of high school could do!

    It really wrecked me for a few weeks and I wanted to give up. I felt like maybe they were right and 20 years of experience was wasted. However, I had no choice and had to keep going...unemployment wasn't going to last forever. I was applying to jobs all over the place, just to apply. Not quite the "spray and pray" approach, but any and every job that I thought I was qualified for (that paid enough to cover my mortgage) got a resume. And for months I heard NOTHING.

    Out of the blue last month, a company I'd applied to back in the summer reached out to me to ask me to interview for them. I did and (long story short) I GOT THE JOB! Not only is it a perfect fit, it literally pays DOUBLE my last salary! I'm not exaggerating.

    The moral of this story is NEVER GIVE UP! You don't know what's just around the corner and it could be much better than you even imagine. Oh, and that "perfect" job I was rejected for? I am SO HAPPY that I didn't get it because I've since learned more about the role and realize that it was a position set up to fail because the work they required in the role was impossible for it to be successful.

    Keep your chin up - you're much closer to winning than you think!!

38. Melissa MurphyFebruary 11,2022 at 4:19PM UTC

    Thank you for your story! I have also been experiencing applying and not hearing back. Or interviewing multiple rounds, thinking it went really well, only to be told I'm not a great fit. Ugh. It is so disheartening. I'm glad I'm not the only one, and will take your advice to heart. Thanks again!

39. 60isthenew40February 12,2022 at 6:17PM UTC

    I know it can be so discouraging, but you WILL get there! I was unemployed for almost two years and had to take breaks every few months to regroup because it was so soul-sucking. If you looked at my story, you'd see I had a lot of obstacles and, taken at face value, my prospects didn't look good. But in the end none of that mattered. Persistence is the key.

    In the end it's a numbers game and you WILL get a great job if you just keep moving forward. Take a break if you need to, but then get back in the game. We all have your back and look forward to hearing your success story soon!

40. JillFebruary 11,2022 at 3:44PM UTC

    Do not despair. Those jobs just weren’t the right one for you. You have to trust that the perfect job is out there. You just haven’t found it yet. Someone out there needs your skills. You just haven’t found them and they haven’t found you. Keep looking. Do not quit.

41. Bradford McCormickFebruary 11,2022 at 4:24PM UTC

    Wow! Sounds like you are being your own persecutor. You apparently know you are qualified to do good work. Maybe the people who rejected you are not? Or maybe they have a legitimate reason, like several other applicants as qualified as you and they could only afford to hire one, so they had to flip a coin? Tough question: Did you have parents who were judgmental of you instead of standing firmly behind you even when you would make mistakes? If yes, we internalize those persons as "toxic introjects" who just keep on putting us down from inside our heads even after their bodies die. Tell them they are not being fair. Keep telling them to go away. Replace them with new, supportive voices in your head, even if it has to be a loving pet dog or cat who are often better judges of people than many people. Meow!

42. Kellie ReedFebruary 11,2022 at 4:28PM UTC

    The right company is out there and they are looking for you! Sometimes we want things to happen in a certain time frame for many reasons personal, financial, professional, etc. but the right one will come along at your right time. Keep your head up.

43. AnonymousFebruary 11,2022 at 4:38PM UTC

    I hear ya. I'm in the same boat. Don't give up! The right job for you is out there. I made a career change and it has been difficult finding something in my new field. This is a field I really want to get experience in and learn more about but it will take time. Just need to get your foot in the door and branch out from there.

44. MarciaFebruary 11,2022 at 5:15PM UTC

    We all know the kick in the teeth feeling of being rejected for what we think is a perfect fit. The only advice I can offer you here is DO NOT TAKE IT PERSONAL. Don’t let the rejections get you down-we attract what we put out, if you are feeling down on yourself, you will be inadvertently inviting even more rejection. Also, as everyone else has said-it wasn’t the right place for you or it would’ve happened. Sometimes the universe looks out for us in weird ways.

    Hang in there-keep applying, and keep your chin up.

45. AnonymousFebruary 11,2022 at 5:16PM UTC

    I can often tell when a job is already filled and the employer is just going through the motions at the interview. This might be the case in your situation. If that is the case, you can consider that you probably dodged a bullet. Sometimes not getting a job you thought you wanted is actually the best possible outcome. It leaves you open for a better opportunity.

46. JulieFebruary 11,2022 at 5:19PM UTC

    I'm actually in the same predicament. I've applied for this one position, twice, and now a 3rd time. At this point I don't want the position but I know I'm qualified and want to show the rest of senior leadership that I am not going to just sit patiently buy and not try to improve myself. Keep applying and then remember it's going to be their loss when they don't hire the correct and qualified employee for the position. That's the way I have to look at things. You are worthy, so expand your job search and keep applying, elsewhere. You Got This, so do I, and also the rest of the working women continue to be overlooked.

47. Tracey PriceFebruary 11,2022 at 5:22PM UTC

    I completely understand. I am experiencing this as well. Jobs that match my experience line to line. It's very disheartening. I try to tell myself it just takes one and everything happens for a reason but it's hard on the self esteem. Good luck! I'm sure we will end up somewhere that is perfect. We have to just keep the faith.

48. AnonymousFebruary 11,2022 at 5:22PM UTC

    I get it. I’ve been job hunting for the past 2 years. I had a recent job interview process that included 7 Zoom interviews (yes - that’s 7) and an editing test. They went with someone else. There is also a growing trend of ghosting applicants - from both companies and recruiters. It sucks. Try to connect with places you interviewed on linkedin and ask them to keep you in mind for future openings. Hang in there!

49. Franziska PetermannFebruary 11,2022 at 7:49PM UTC

    Ugh. That sounds awful. I am so sorry that you had to jump through this many hoops and didn't get the job. And yes, the lack of replies from both recruiters and companies is disheartening.

50. AnonymousFebruary 11,2022 at 11:00PM UTC

    Thanks.
    Well, I certainly got plenty of Zoom interview practice that week!

51. Erica WangFebruary 11,2022 at 6:00PM UTC

    I'm in the same boat as you.
    I'm rooting for you.

52. Ann BraunFebruary 11,2022 at 6:44PM UTC

    Oh, I feel your pain!!! I think most of us have been there. The last time this happened to me I gave myself one day to mourn (ok, feel sorry for myself) then I started focusing on learning a new skill and making a new goal. It was something hard that my company really needed and it took me the better part of a month to master it, but the management noticed, and soon after I got a promotion! Any words of motivation I might give you will sound trite but in my experience, the opened window is always better than the closed door.

53. Pamela TorresFebruary 11,2022 at 6:48PM UTC

    Know what your going through. Laid off 7 months ago, have applied, been in through many interviews, and taken many assessment tests. I been told I'm a qualified candidate, have had background checks, yet no offer. Keep applying, one will find you.

54. Franziska PetermannFebruary 11,2022 at 7:48PM UTC

    I just had the same happening to me so I feel you! It's the worst when it's a role you know you can do in your sleep and are confident about. Putting it out in the open is a good first step to get over it. I always try to remind myself (and don't always succeed) that it is not personal. And that there is something better out there. Hang in there! You're worth it. And some company soon will recognize that and hire you.

55. Marie LazaroFebruary 11,2022 at 7:56PM UTC

    I lost my job due to COVID in 2020 and had been looking for a new position since then. It has been incredibly frustrating and I have many stories of horrible interviews and a demoralizing job hunt. Everyone kept telling me to keep going (persistence is key), how wonderful I am, the right job will come... but after almost 2 years it wasn't looking good. Even jobs I know I am qualified for would tell me I was not! Finally got a call from an Agency and they sent me to my 'perfect job' (more pay, wonderful boss, office, commute, benefits)-it's 'temp to perm' but I am hoping to prove I am keeper!

56. AnonymousFebruary 11,2022 at 9:51PM UTC

    I got declined for a job at the last possible moment - I really thought I had it. Stayed super polite even though I was crushed. Ended up taking a different job that made me miserable though built my career, and reached back out to that company again after a while. Now I have an offer from them, but I have multiple and get to choose what I want. So it can work out.

57. AnonymousFebruary 11,2022 at 10:36PM UTC

    Hang in there!

58. KathrynFebruary 12,2022 at 1:07AM UTC

    We are both in this boat together I am doing ok and I know the right one will happen. You need to keep your head up and keep moving

59. Katie KristlFebruary 12,2022 at 2:01AM UTC

    You never know what the underlying reason was for not getting the offer. It's hard, I know, but try not to take it personally!

    I've been in your position, and it can be really discouraging. I'm also in a hiring manager role where I have to be the one to make these tough calls.

    There could be a lot of things at play here - 1 thing I have to consider when deciding between top applicants is what type of skills I have on my team and who will be able to complement those skills and fill in any gaps.

    Hang in there! You will find the role you're meant to have :)

60. Clydene HorriganFebruary 12,2022 at 3:52AM UTC

    I see many responses from people who can relate. I’ve no idea what roles people are looking for, but my company has many job openings. In full transparency, my company was bought September 1 so I don’t have a long history here, and we’re going through some growing pains, butI think it’s going to be a good company for me. They said they promote about 30% each year, they not only kept our women’s network- they’re promoting it at company meetings, and we hire all over the country and globally.

    I’m including a link to the company so people can check it out. I’m heading out on a cruise so I probably won’t be able to respond to any questions, but if you message me, I’ll try to answer whatI can when I return.

    https://www.e2open.com/careers/

61. Deb HornerFebruary 12,2022 at 1:46PM UTC

    You were rejected from a job you wanted - there was something there you weren't supposed to experience. My mom used to tell us that the reason we were running late, or early had to do with we weren't supposed to be in the accident we would have if we left exactly on time. I have found this to be true across my entire life (and I'm 66). Take a deep breath, and go find the best job doing exactly what you are meant to be doing.

    Blessings!

62. Debbie VerebFebruary 12,2022 at 2:36PM UTC

    This is exactly what I would say. It wasn't meant to be for whatever reason you will never know. Keep pushing and the right role will come.

63. AnonymousFebruary 12,2022 at 4:03PM UTC

    as an internal recruiter for many years I can assure you that not every situation is because you weren’t qualified or you were notvthe right fit. many times an internal candidate has been identified or a referral or a returning employee is hired and the job still must be posted and recruited for by law. having said that I’ve learned as a JobSeeker with a lot of recruiting experience to not take anything personal and actually expect rejection and now at this point although a lot of companies don’t get back to you at all, I just expect that the right opportunity will present itself when it’s meant to be. good luck be patient and don’t take it personally if possible

64. RickFebruary 12,2022 at 4:32PM UTC

    It's hard receiving that news especially when you have pressing timelines and financial commitments that put your perception of that job as critical. Take a deep breath and know that you will make it through today. As discussed previously there are a multitude of reasons the job did not work and none of them are about you. Assume a low percentage of what you apply for will work out. Make sure you applying through avenues that have a higher level of success. A referral or a recruiter will have a higher success than an online application. Network constantly. Don't rely on one referral or one recruiter. Get all opportunities going at once. I have been down this road multiple times. I only put 10% of my time into online postings. 70% goes to networking. 20% goes to refreshing me in thoughts and action such exercise and education. Good luck. I wish you well.

65. Rosa GoesFebruary 12,2022 at 6:13PM UTC

    Like others have said, it may have been a blessing in disguise. Hang in there! Keep networking and talking to recruiters. Also sign up for some courses that interest you either professionally or personally to balance your life during this time.

66. Julie Chatman, MBA, CISMFebruary 12,2022 at 8:46PM UTC

    It’s hard to know why we may be rejected for a role. For example, the hiring manager could have already had someone in mind and was using the hiring process as a compliance exercise. Sometimes, we are not the least expensive candidate.

    Keep applying. Your next role is out there.

67. Karen PriceFebruary 13,2022 at 3:02PM UTC

    I agree that it is discouraging to not get the role when you know you are a great fit. If you were not truly excited that could be a reason, and a blessing in disguise. Keep moving toward the role that you truly want and you will find it!

    Best of luck!

68. Robyn McCabria KelsoFebruary 14,2022 at 4:15PM UTC

    It's a tough spot to be in. I still feel the sting of rejection from a I didn't get but should have and that was in 2016. I guess the news is eventually you do heal and manage to figure out a path forward. Hang in there!