"Navigating Rejection: Turning Setbacks into Success"
September 15th, 2023
At Katapult Network, we understand that people are more than just a resume and jobs are more than just a list of tasks. We're a recruiting company that takes a human-focused approach to the job search where we're able to match college graduates with entry-level, professional jobs. Whether you're a job-seeker looking to start your professional career or a hiring manger seeking to build your future leadership at the entry-level, we're excited to be your partner in navigating the search process.
Experiencing rejection can be a challenging ordeal, particularly when it comes to job rejections. The disappointment can be a lot when you've set your sights on a job you were enthusiastic about or believed you were a perfect fit for. So, how do you cope with this emotional setback? How can you process your feelings and move forward from rejection to pursue other opportunities? The following strategies can provide you with the support and motivation you may need to bounce back.
1. Reach out for support:
When confronted with rejection, the first step is to open up about it. Seek out friends, family members, or other supporters and confide in them about your emotions. This can serve as a cathartic release, allowing you to begin the process of exploring alternative prospects and helping you to let go of the negative emotions that come with rejection.
2. Know that you are not alone:
It's important to keep in mind that this kind of rejection is not exclusive to you. While it might appear as if you're the sole individual facing rejection amid a crowd of successful and content individuals, this is far from the truth. Everyone experiences rejection at some point in their career, so you are not alone in your current or future feelings.
3. There are many factors at hand:
There are numerous factors considered by employers when filling a position. Not progressing to the next round of interviews or failing to secure the desired job might be due to these other variables. Factors such as a hiring freeze, a shift in the company's direction, or an internal candidate being selected could result in a job not aligning with your path. While it may not feel ideal initially, this rejection may ultimately be a blessing in disguise. Even though this specific job may not have been the right fit for you, it opens up opportunities for other potential roles that may pique your interest.
4. Practice positive self talk:
A helpful practice for recovering from rejection is to maintain an ongoing list of your positive qualities and consistently remind yourself of them. Rejection has a way of undermining your confidence and causing self-doubt. This can lead to a cycle of negative thinking and second-guessing your decisions. Replace this negative feedback loop with a recollection of your accomplishments and the challenges you've overcome. Although it may seem repetitive, this constant reinforcement can be invaluable in future encounters with rejection. Another effective method for coping with rejection is to repeat positive affirmations to yourself, such as:
- "This is just a minor setback; I will find a new job!"
- "Rejection for a job does not diminish my self-worth and value."
- "I am intelligent, talented, and have much to offer."
- "I won't give up and will persevere through this challenging period."
These positive mantras can improve your self-esteem and confidence as you prepare for your next job interview.
Although dealing with rejection can be challenging, it is possible to navigate these emotions and emerge with a renewed sense of readiness to resume your job search. By employing these strategies, you can confront and manage your feelings, ultimately fostering a deeper self-assurance in your abilities that will empower you to handle rejection with grace. Don't allow the fear of rejection to hinder you from seizing great opportunities in your future.