Receiving a job rejection can be a frustrating and discouraging experience, especially if you were very excited about the job and put a lot of effort into your application. However, it’s important to remember that rejection is a normal part of the job search process and doesn’t necessarily reflect on your qualifications or worth as a person. In fact, asking for feedback after a job rejection can be a valuable opportunity for growth and improvement. In this blog, we’ll explore some tips for how to ask for feedback after a job rejection.
Wait a Few Days
It’s important to give yourself some time to process your emotions and disappointment before reaching out to the employer for feedback. Waiting a few days can also give the employer some time to respond and consider your request, rather than bombarding them with follow-up emails right away.
Be Polite and Professional
When you do reach out to the employer for feedback, be sure to do so in a polite and professional manner. Remember that the employer has no obligation to provide feedback, so approaching them with entitlement or aggression will not help your case. Begin your email by expressing gratitude for the opportunity to interview and thanking them for their time and consideration.
Be Specific in your Request
When asking for feedback, it’s important to be specific in your request so that the employer knows exactly what you’re looking for. For example, you might ask for feedback on your interview skills, your resume and cover letter, or your qualifications and experience. If you had multiple interviews or interactions with the employer, you could also ask for feedback on each specific stage of the process.
Listen Actively and Take Notes
When you do receive feedback, be sure to listen actively and take notes. Try to stay open-minded and avoid becoming defensive or argumentative. Remember that the goal of asking for feedback is to learn and grow, not to prove the employer wrong. Taking notes can help you remember the feedback and reflect on it later.
Use the Feedback to Improve
After you’ve received feedback, take some time to reflect on it and consider how you can use it to improve. This might involve practicing your interview skills, revising your resume and cover letter, or seeking out additional training or education in a certain area. Remember that feedback is a valuable opportunity for growth and improvement, and using it to your advantage can help you succeed in future job searches.
Thank the Interviewer
Always thank the interviewer for their time and feedback. Whether the feedback was positive or negative, it’s crucial to show your appreciation for their help.
What to Avoid When Asking for Feedback
Don’t Be Defensive
It’s natural to feel defensive when receiving criticism, but it’s important to keep an open mind and not become defensive. Remember, the goal of feedback is to help you improve, so try to stay objective and take the feedback as constructive criticism.
What Should Be Avoided When Requesting Feedback
Don’t Argue:
Arguing with the interviewer or pushing back on their feedback is not productive and can damage your professional reputation. Instead, try to understand their perspective and ask follow-up questions to clarify their feedback.
Don’t Take it Personally
Receiving feedback can be tough, but it’s important not to take it personally. Remember, the interviewer’s feedback is about your performance, not you as a person.
Don’t Give Up
Finally, it’s essential not to give up after receiving feedback. Instead, use it as an opportunity to learn and grow, and apply the feedback to your future job search and interview processes.
How to Ask for Feedback After a Job Rejection (by Mobile)
If you prefer to ask for feedback after a job rejection by phone, here are some tips:
- Call at an appropriate time: Choose a time when the employer is likely to be available and not too busy. Avoid calling during peak work hours or late in the day.
- Introduce yourself: Introduce yourself and remind the employer of the position you applied for and the interview you had.
- Ask for feedback: Politely request feedback on your application, interview, and qualifications for the job. Ask specific questions, such as what you could have done better or what skills you could have highlighted more effectively.
- Listen carefully: If the employer agrees to provide feedback, listen carefully to what they have to say. Take notes if necessary and avoid becoming defensive or argumentative.
- Thank them for their time: After receiving feedback, thank the employer for their time and for providing you with the opportunity to improve. Let them know that you will take their feedback into consideration as you move forward in your job search.
Here is an example of how to ask for feedback after a job rejection by phone:
Hello, this is [Your Name]. I recently applied for the [Job Position] at [Company Name] and had an interview with [Interviewer Name]. I was wondering if I could ask for some feedback on my application and interview, and what I could have done better or differently to be considered for the role. I would really appreciate any insights you could provide. Thank you for taking the time to consider my request.
How to Respond to a Job Rejection Email Example
If you receive a job rejection email, it’s important to respond in a professional and gracious manner. Here are some examples of how you might respond:
Example: Requesting feedback
Dear [Hiring Manager],
Thank you for considering my application for the [Position Title] role at [Company Name]. While I am disappointed to hear that my application was not successful, I appreciate the time you took to inform me of your decision.
I am still very interested in pursuing a career in [Industry/Field], and I would be grateful for any feedback you could provide on my application or interview process. I am committed to continuous learning and improvement, and I believe that feedback can be a valuable tool in that process.
Thank you again for your consideration and for the opportunity to learn more about your company. I wish you all the best in your search for the right candidate.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Conclusion
While job rejections can be difficult to handle, asking for feedback can be a valuable opportunity for growth and improvement. By waiting a few days, being polite and professional, being specific in your request, listening actively and taking notes, and using the feedback to improve, you can turn a rejection into a learning experience and ultimately improve your chances of success in future job searches