How do you turn feedback from a job rejection into a networking opportunity?

When I talk with candidates who are incredibly talented and would be a great fit in the organization, and they are eager to find another opportunity to interview, I feel an obligation to find the right role for them. Let's say you had a bad day when you interviewed, or maybe you just aren't the right person for that particular team; just because you were rejected for one role, it doesn't mean you can't take the interview feedback and improve for another team. Even if you don't quite have the current skills needed, soliciting feedback can strengthen your relationship with the recruiter or hiring manager to be kept in mind for future opportunities.

When seeking a promotion or a new job, candidates tend to focus on their achievements, certifications, experience and degrees. However, two of the most important skills that will help you most is your ability to build relationships and demonstrating that you can show up. Someone who knows how to show up and engages in great feedback discussions will always stand out.

Feedback is key when it comes to improving your interviewing skills and understanding what the employer is looking for. It might be nerve-wracking to ask for feedback, but it shows that you're dedicated to improving and willing to learn from constructive criticism. Plus, maintaining a positive relationship with the hiring manager can only help you in the future. Who knows, they might just be the connection you need for your dream job down the line!

In a very competitive job environment, I must admit that I have sent a lot of job applications, got a lot of interviews and have been rejected so many times. At first, it was disappointing, frustrating and can lower your self-esteem. It’s just recently that I realised what I was doing wrong. I wasn’t listening to feedback amongst other things. Feedback is not compulsory but at times, companies would offer this and if they do take it. There are so many underlying factors why people don’t get the job. But charge this to experience and learn from it. Study the job role and the company. Think why are you a good match for the role and what can you do once you assume the role. Be always positive !

Students: Not getting an offer is an opportunity to improve yourself. Use the template below to get feedback to improve next time you have an interview. "Thank you once again for taking the time to meet with me yesterday. It looks like I was passed up for the NAME OF ROLE at NAME OF COMPANY, which is unfortunate but there is always a way to make a situation into a learning experience. As such, I would please ask that you provide me with any feedback you may have regarding our meeting and how I can improve in order to make a better impact either with NAME OF COMPANY or any other company I interview with in the future. I look forward to hearing from you. Sincerely, YOUR NAME"

Sometimes when we get an email or a call that we didn't get the job, it can feel devastating. What you should do is ask for feedback, take notes and if possible get it in writing. The reason it's better in writing is so you can refer back to it and in the middle of a phone conversation you aren't necessarily going to absorb all the information. Feedback from a recruiter or a hiring manager is invaluable, but keep in mind that sometimes it's not about you. They decided to move forward with a more qualified candidate or a better fit for the team. If they feel you can improve anything, work on it, but if you disagree, move on. Not all feedback is relatable and it is someone's opinion, not a fact.

When it comes to asking for feedback, it's definitely important to be polite and concise. Sending a short and sweet email to the hiring manager a few days after being rejected is a great way to go. It's always important to thank them for their time and consideration, and express your appreciation for the opportunity you had. Then, politely ask if they would be willing to share some feedback on your performance and how you can improve for future interviews. It's key to avoid coming off as bitter or defensive, and instead show that you respect their decision and value their opinion. Keep it classy and professional!

Having a positive mindset can turn feedback into a career development opportunity. The key is to remember the strengths and skills you have. Confidence is essential to bouncing back. It can be tempting to never think of it again. But this is passing up on a significant learning opportunity. Could the presentation be prepared more thoroughly? Could you build rapport with your interviewer(s) better? Did you focus too much on your technical skills or on softer skills? Were there any questions you feel you could have answered better?. Build a personal development plan from all feedback. Are there any recurring themes? Talking it out with others can help you see areas you don't see. Feedback can be a positive learning experience.

When it comes to interpreting feedback, I think it's important to take a step back and read it carefully. It can be tough not to take it personally or get down on yourself, but try to focus on the constructive aspects. Look for specific areas you can improve on, like tweaking your resume, practicing your interview skills, or doing more research on the company. If you're not quite sure what they mean or the feedback is vague, don't be afraid to ask for clarification. Just make sure to do it in a respectful way and avoid coming off as argumentative. Ultimately, we all want to improve and find new opportunities, so taking feedback in stride can help us get there!

- Even if you don't agree with the feedback, try it on. Imagine the feedback might be true and imagine how you can put the feedback into practice. - Be sure you are aligned with the feedback giver on what they mean, a simple "When you say X, I am hearing Y - is that correct?" - If you aren't sure what the feedback means ask for clarification - "can you give me an example, model what you're saying, or show me?" - Separate what the feed back isn't about. For example, needing to work on your presentation delivery doesn't mean you're a terrible interviewer who can't present a deck. - Don't look to agree or disagree, defend or accept, the goal is simply to understand. Understanding does not equal agreeing.

While feedback can sometimes be tough to hear, ultimately it’s a data point you can use to hack your future searches. After receiving feedback (whether verbal or written) it’s important to take a moment to dissect which pieces you’re keeping and which may not really resonate. If you’re unsure, asking mentors or peers can also be a good check if the feedback is something you should focus on. You can then take this information and tweak your resume, practice with mock interviews, or make edits in whatever space of the job search process you may need help in. Feedback is truly a gift if you can change your mindset and apply it to your search.

Identify the areas where you need to improve your skills or competencies, and seek out tools that can help you practice, such as online courses, mock interviews, or advice from mentors or peers. Don't forget to review your resume and cover letter, and make sure they highlight your relevant achievements and qualifications. Researching the industry and the company you're applying to can also help you stand out, so prepare questions that show your interest and enthusiasm. Remember, applying feedback can be challenging, but it can also be a great opportunity to grow and improve your chances of landing your dream job!

Whenever you get negative feedback you get two scores - the feedback itself and how you handled the feedback. Aim to accept all feedback gracefully, even if you don't agree with it. It demonstrates a level of maturity and emotional intelligence that will surely set you apart from many others and leave a solid impression on the feedback giver.

An attitude for gratitude. Send a thank you note to each person on the interview team and appreciate them for the interview process. Send a personalized message to connect on LinkedIn (doing a little bit of research to inform your message makes it more personalized). Establishing the relationship first is an effective way to build your long-term professional network; comment on their posts. Send an article you found useful in helping the companies pain points = bonus points.

Networking with the hiring manager after receiving feedback can be a great way to keep the door open for future opportunities. Once you've applied the feedback, it's a good idea to follow up with a thank-you email, updating them on your progress and achievements. This shows that you value their input and are dedicated to improving. You can also ask if they'd be open to setting up a meeting in the future to discuss their industry, what they wish they knew before they started, and any tips they might have for networking in the industry. This can help you gain valuable insights and potentially meet other people in the industry who might be able to help you out. Don't forget to connect with them on LinkedIn.

One novel way to do this is to post the rejection note on social media platforms like LinkedIn. This carries an inherent risk, but if done properly can generate goodwill and traction online. One way to accomplish this is to focus on use the rejection as a learning tool and the post should be about what you learned from the rejection and what you plan to do about it. I would like to emphasize that any personal information should be scrubbed (especially if the feedback giver is in social media). Overall, this step should align with your social media presence and persona. Don’t do this to generate shallow sympathy but to genuinely share your vulnerability and growth mindset.

Beyond asking for feedback and applying it, there are a few other things one can do to make the most out of their recruiting process: Stay Positive: Rejection can be discouraging, but try to stay positive and keep things in perspective. Remember, rejection is a normal part of the job search process, and doesn't reflect on your worth as a candidate or as a person. Network: Attend networking events, join industry groups, and connect with people on LinkedIn to expand your reach and learn about new opportunities. Keep applying: Finally, don't give up! Apply to jobs that align with your skills and interests, and tailor your resume to each opportunity. Remember, finding the right job is a process, and it can take time to find the perfect fit.

Um problema claro aqui no Brasil é que não gostamos de dar feedbacks. Queremos ser simpáticos e agradar o outro, mesmo que isso não vá ajudar em nada. Quando o candidato não escolhido consegue algum retorno e pergunta o porquê de não ter sido escolhido as respostas são genéricas e pouco verdadeiras. Penso que quem trabalha com aquisição de talentos já devia ter como padrão dar um retorno breve e útil para quem não foi escolhido. Não fazer isso indica pouco caso ou quem sabe até uma dificuldade de explicar porque o outro foi selecionado.

It's important to note that recruiting is subjective. As you objectively look at the feedback given, if fortunate to receive it, use it to improve upon any shortcomings as interviewing is a skill that you can improve. If you don't agree with the feedback when reviewing it objectively, don't voice your disagreement with the company. They don't owe you any feedback and are just offering their feedback out of courtesy. At this stage, you cannot convince them to reverse their hiring decisions.

Mesmo solicitando, pode ser que você não receba o feedback. Ou que ele seja tão superficial e genérico que não seja útil para seu autodesenvolvimento. Minha sugestão é que faça uma auto-reflexão sobre o processo seletivo. Em que etapa você se sentiu desconfortável? Para quais perguntas poderia ter se preparado melhor? O que faltou para que sentisse que a vaga era sua? Esta é a parte que nos cabe. Aprender com o processo. Muitas vezes o fato de não termos sido selecionados não tem a ver com nosso preparo e competência. Há outros fatores envolvidos. O que está na nossa mão é desenvolver a autoconfiança necessária para reconhecer o nosso valor e comunicar de modo claro como podemos contribuir para a empresa.