Why Did I Get Rejected Despite Meeting Job Qualifications

You have the skills for the job. You prepare for the interview well enough. So, you feel like everything is going well. Then, you get rejected.

Dealing with job rejection is never easy. But, it is even more difficult when you are rejected after feeling like you were the perfect match for the job qualifications listed. Now, you might be asking yourself what went wrong.

Job rejection is part of the job-seeking journey. On a positive note, rejections are a chance for you to reflect and determine where you can improve. Even if you meet the job qualifications, there are certainly several other factors that come to play.

Take this time to contemplate what might have gone wrong and find ways to present yourself better. With the right mindset, you can turn a job rejection into a career development opportunity. Rest assured that this process will undoubtedly make you a more resilient, confident jobseeker.

What do I do after being declined a job?

The way you handle a job rejection is an integral part of the job-seeking process. Dealing with it properly is an important skill to master. A rejection can knock your confidence and affect your performance in the future. So, you must learn how to manage your emotions and use this as an opportunity for self-growth.

After getting that dreaded rejection email or phone call, take the time to absorb the situation. Then, pause and assess what is actually happening. Step back. Ask yourself a few questions to help you work through your feelings.

Rejected for a job you’re qualified for? Ask yourself the following question

Here are some questions to ask yourself after a job rejection so that you can manage your emotions and keep moving forward in your job search.

Was I really prepared to apply for the job?

Review every stage of the job-seeking process. Did you submit a clear and error-free resume? Did it effectively translate your skills and experience? Were you articulate enough to communicate your strengths and abilities through the interview? Even if you have the right job qualifications, employers will not see this unless you position them properly on paper and in person.

Look back on how you prepared, researched, and spoke with the employer. Did you show knowledge about the company at all? Remember: How you build rapport with your potential employer is a critical factor in showcasing your soft skills.

Reflect on the things you can control and think of the ways you could improve on. Use any setbacks as an opportunity to improve. It is your chance to shine a light on the areas you need to work on. In your next job interview, you can pull through with what you have learned.

Were my expectations aligned with reality?

When applying for a job, you need to have realistic expectations. Applying in the era of COVID-19, for example, definitely means that you are to find significant changes in the Malaysian job market. More employers are turning to online recruiting; thus, you are competing in a much larger talent pool. So even when you have the perfect job qualifications, it is possible that another candidate has work experience or a personality that resonated more strongly with the employer.

Also, consider the possibility of a gap between your expectations and the reality of the position. Sure, it is exciting to go for jobs that challenge your abilities. But of course, you need to make sure that your skill level matches the role. It is essential that you do your research about the company. Look for employee reviews to better familiarise yourself with the role you are applying for.

Did I actually understand the role I was applying for?

You never know — maybe an employer is looking for a qualification that is not listed in their job posting. The company might have a specific need, and you might not be the candidate who can fulfil that.

This is why it is important that you have a clear understanding of not just the job description, but also of the industry and the company you are applying for. Knowing how you are needed will also help you ask compelling questions during interviews. It will also enable you to showcase your most relevant skills. You can then highlight how you have demonstrated these skills while injecting your technical expertise into them.

Do the jobs I’m applying for fit my long-term career goals?

Your goal during the job search is, of course, landing the job. But more than this, it is also a good idea to have more than one goal in mind. It is easy to get swept up by blind optimism with a potential job opportunity. Make sure never to overlook your long-term career goals.

While assessing your job rejection, look towards the future. Successful jobseekers often reflect on their overall career trajectory; and, rejections serve as their critical stepping stones on their way to success.

Perhaps you might feel a little down after job rejection. That is a natural human reaction. On the other hand, keep in mind that this is a temporary defeat. Someday, you will look back, connect the dots, and find yourself grateful for the redirection.

How can I turn this rejection into an opportunity?

Self-awareness is one of the most important parts of transforming rejection into opportunity. It will help you discover particular areas you need to improve on. For example, if you realise that you did not do well in the job interview, then next time, you can rehearse your answers for some of the most common interview questions.

How can I improve, according to the employer?

If, after taking the time to process, you are still hung up on why you got rejected, then know that you can always ask for detailed feedback from the employer who rejected your application. Use this opportunity to seek advice from a professional and get some constructive criticism.

Employers usually appreciate follow-ups. Some are willing to give feedback to their candidates. Make sure that you continue to communicate your enthusiasm for the position. Handling rejection with professionalism can leave a lasting impression that opens the door for future opportunities.

How can I move forward from a job rejection?

Now that you have taken the time to reflect, you should have a clear picture of how to move forward. Sharpen your skills, update your resume, and find opportunities to boost your work experience. Make sure your goals are aligned with your abilities — this will help boost your confidence and give yourself focus outside your job hunt.

Avoid falling into the trap of a rejection slump. Employers look to hire jobseekers who take directions to improve. Overcoming obstacles in your job search brings you one step closer to landing the right role. Make it a point to stay productive. Do all you can to learn from the experience. Finally, get ready for the next opportunity.

Summary

You might never know the exact reason why an employer did not consider you for the job. Despite this, it is still important to celebrate your small victories. If you are getting interviews, that is a very positive sign that employers like your initial presentation of skills and experience. Any progression along the job application is a step closer to getting hired.

Remember that finding the right job is no easy task. It can be a long and challenging process. So, continue to improve your skills and learn how to position yourself confidently to employers. Keep seeking #JobsThatMatter with confidence that you will find the right role for you someday.

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