Facing job rejections can be oh so challenging – I know it can be a massive blow when you feel like you’ve performed so well in an interview and really bonded with the interviewer, only to be told that they don’t want to continue with your application.

REMEMBER ITS OFTEN OUTSIDE OF YOUR CONTROL!
Please remember that rejections are often outside your control and are not always an accurate reflection of your qualifications or potential. Companies have internal candidates, changing needs, or budget issues that influence their decisions not to move ahead with external candidates . Unfortunately, also interviewers are often not allowed to give feedback to candidates for risk of being sued. Understanding this can help you not take rejection personally, perhaps constantly wondering what you said wrong in an interview!

Without this direct feedback from the interviewer, I’d like to share my approach to help you self-analyze your interview experience, so that you can go into your next interview feeling confident and ready to get back in the saddle so to speak. So grab some note paper and pen and get scribbling…!

HOW TO SELF ANALYZE
1. Reflect on the Interview straight away! I suggest to clients that they make a note of their thoughts while they’re still fresh. How well do you feel like you answered the questions? How do you think your body language was? Often I need to work with clients on hand gestures and eye contact. Did you feel like you effectively communicated your skills and experiences?

2. Review the Job Description again: Did you have good solid examples/interview stories to use for each of the competency areas outlined in the job description? I remind my clients that past performance is the best indicator of future performance and so interviewers are looking for examples that show you have the required skills and competencies required for their role.

3. Evaluate Your Preparation:
Did you research the company thoroughly and did you show your passion for the role and company? Did you practice answering common interview questions like “tell me about yourself?” and “what are your strengths and weaknesses?”

4. Consider the Interviewer’s reactions: Did the interviewer appear engaged? Did they ask follow-up questions? Moments of hesitation or lack of interest are a good indicator of where your answers should have been stronger.

Remember, a little self-analysis goes a long way – think of it as your ‘secret weapon’ for future interviews—each time you do it, you’re boosting your chances of success, even without that elusive feedback we all crave from employers!

If you need any career support, please get in touch at Joannabrook@thriveworklifecoach.com

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