Unfortunately, rejection is just part and parcel of the job-hunting process. Although you may have your sights set on a specific role, it’s quite rare to land your dream job right away. In fact, you may find that you’re getting turned down time and time again before finally getting the acceptance email you’ve been waiting for.

With that said, it’s natural to feel disheartened when you’re constantly being told ‘sorry, you didn’t get the job this time’. But remember, that almost everyone who has been on the job hunt has been in the same position. It doesn’t define your potential or worth. It may just be as simple as not being the right fit for the company.

So, if you’re struggling with the realities of job search rejection, you’ve come to the right place. In this blog, we’re going to give you the key of how to stay positive and keep going:

Accept It as a learning opportunity:

Instead of letting rejection weigh you down, seize it as an invaluable opportunity for personal and professional development. If possible, consider reaching out to the employer and kindly requesting feedback on your application or interview. This feedback may become invaluable in providing insights into areas for improvement whether it be your CV, cover letter, skills, qualifications, or experience.

Constructive criticism can allow you to make targeted changes to not only increase your chances of success in future job pursuits, but also, increasing your marketability. Remember, that each rejection makes you a much more resilient individual that can handle anything that is thrown your way and should make you better prepared for other opportunities that lie ahead.

Diversify your job search

While you may have a strong interest in a particular career path, it’s important not to confine yourself to just one specific job role. In other words, don’t put all of your eggs in one basket.

Instead, consider diversifying your job search by applying to a range of positions that call for the same skills and qualifications you possess. But be sure to read the job description and the responsible of the role before you apply to ensure it aligns with your strengths.

In doing so, you significantly increase your chances of discovering the perfect fit. Every job comes with its distinct set of requirements and company culture, and by exploring various opportunities, you enhance your likelihood of stumbling upon a role and organisation that aligns with your goals and preferences.

What’s more, you may uncover new opportunities that you never thought would trigger your interests. By keeping your options open, you may just come across unexpected and potentially rewarding career paths that you’re keen to pursue over your original plan.

Need guidance on finding the right graduate job for you? Reach out to Inspiring Interns. They offer a diverse range of job and internship opportunities across various sectors, as well as customised support to help you launch your career.

Set realistic expectations

Navigating the job hunt can be a demanding and stressful journey. Yet, it’s crucial to maintain realistic expectations throughout the process. As you may well know, the job market is a fiercely competitive landscape, and it will typically take several weeks or even months before you find a job that ticks all of your boxes. Then, you may have to wait a few more months until you receive that long-awaited job offer.

During this period of uncertainty, be patient with yourself and take a day-by-day approach. Sometimes, your luck can change when you least expect it. Take time to celebrate the small wins along the way. Whether it’s securing a job interview, networking with new professional contacts or making progress with your skills development, you’re making small steppingstones in the right direction that could become the foundation upon which your future successes are built.

Stay informed and adapt to changes

In today’s ever-evolving job market, staying informed and adaptable is not just a choice – it’s a necessity. The incredible change of pace in the professional landscape is constant and this is typically driven by technological advancements and evolving industries. As such, graduates who stay in the loop with the latest developments have a competitive advantage over others.

Employers highly value candidates that have taken the time to indulge in industry research, have a willingness to learn and can easily adapt to changing circumstances. What’s more, these learnings can trigger interesting icebreakers during interviews as a way of showing a genuine interest in the subject and a clear idea of how the industry is set to operate in the next few years.

How can you stay informed on industry news?

• Monitor social media
• Network with industry professionals
• Read industry publications
• Invest in further education (online courses and workshops).