Common reasons for job rejections and how to turn them to your advantage

The job market is incredibly competitive and volatile – and this has only increased by the global pandemic. That’s why it can often seem like there are more job rejections than job offers. However, unsuccessful job applications and interviews can still positively shape our career, because there’s something to learn from each rejection. While job rejection is never easy, it’s an important part of growth. There are always ways that candidates can use common job rejections to their advantage and learn from the experience. Here are our top tips for bouncing back after a job rejection.

Employers will reject candidates if their CV doesn’t meet the criteria, or if the information exceeds the demands of the job. When job searching, your CV must tell a relevant and coherent story that applies to the position you’re applying for. Many candidates apply for jobs with the same CV, as well as often listing out responsibilities rather than accomplishments. In medical sales – which is very target-driven – employers want to see achievements and how professionals have completed certain goals. Therefore, after receiving a rejection email, give yourself a chance to re-evaluate the content of your CV and make improvements and avoid being too generic.

When it comes to succeeding in a job interview and receiving an offer, attitude is a key factor.  Beyond your qualifications and work experience, employers will be looking for confidence and respectfulness and that you understand the company. Recruiters may lose interest in candidates who haven’t spent enough time researching the business, or who give vague responses to questions and unsophisticated answers. Therefore, good communication skills are essential. All of this can make or break your first impression with an employer – and according to research, you only have 7 seconds to make a good first impression.

One of the most common reasons that candidates receive job rejections is that they’re simply not the right fit. However, on reflection, the job interview process can often help make you realise you’re more suited to a role elsewhere. It’s important to look back over a job opening and ask whether you see yourself staying in the role long-term and if it’s one you will enjoy. The more excitement and interest you show in the interview, the more the employer will be able to see that you’re a serious candidate. Once you’ve reflected on your interview experience, you’ll be able to refine your search and focus on jobs that are a better match for your interests and career goals.

Sometimes, even when you have a great interview, you can still be beaten by a more qualified candidate. The job market is highly competitive and employers will only hire the best candidate with the right attitude and interpersonal skills. Reflect on past interviews and think about how you can improve your skills to ensure you’re the best candidate. Whether that means improving your knowledge in medical sales by taking an extra course or networking with experts in your industry, there are plenty of ways to boost your chances of receiving a job offer and you’ll learn so much while actively developing yourself professionally.