Applying for that job you really wanted was the first step in seeing your goal achieved. Then when you landed the interview, you felt victory was in sight. During the interview, you were confident, prepared, and dressed for success. The questions were simple and you answered eloquently and easily. You felt your experience shined through. You had it in the bag. Nothing could go wrong (or so you thought). Then, you hear the dreaded words, “no.” You did not get the job.
The first emotion is disbelief; everything had gone so well, hadn’t it? You rethink the whole scenario. Had you answered a question wrong? Did you make a bad impression somehow? No, you had sailed through the interview. There was a sense of connection with the interviewer. Next, you feel disappointed. You really did want that job. It was your first choice. Actually, you had not thought of anything but working there because, well, things had gone so well, in your estimation. Now, you wonder what is next. Although it is always disheartening to hear “no” about a job prospect, it does not have to mean failure. In fact, there are important lessons to consider if this has happened to you.
Many great people have failed, but succeeded in the end
Have you ever heard of Steve Jobs, Thomas Edison, Henry Ford, or Walt Disney? Chances are, most people know these individuals. They have all achieved great feats in life. What you may not know is they faced setbacks and failures before they became huge successes. However, through perseverance and determination, they went on to achieve their dreams. The key to their success is that they did not give up. This is essential for anyone facing a setback to remember.
A setback is an opportunity to sharpen your skills
Use this time to develop skills you will need for your next job. If you think possibly the reason you did not get the job was due to an insufficient skill area, work to strengthen that skill set.
A rejection toughens you
As difficult as it feels right now, rejections have the ability to strengthen you inwardly. If you take the rejection the right way and do not become disheartened, you will be stronger for it. Strength and courage are qualities only learned through difficult life situations. In the end, this rejection may work for your benefit.
Now is the time to increase emotional intelligence skills
Additionally, take time to develop a higher level of emotional intelligence. Studies reveal that people with higher emotional intelligence quotients are quicker to climb the career ladder once they are hired. Emotional intelligence involves understanding and controlling your emotions, as well as being aware of how others are feeling and responding in an appropriate manner.
Is this the field you want to be in?
If you went to college for a specific area of study, then you likely know what career you want. However, some college degrees and experiences work in a variety of fields. Take time to review your resume, looking closely at the experience and education you have. Think outside the box about different career choices. Sometimes personal attributes are just as important for a good career match as education or experience. For example, if you excel in people skills or possess natural leadership abilities, then a career that uses those natural talents are beneficial.
At Bishop & Company, we combine experience with professional understanding to help employees find the career that best matches their skills and lifestyle. Through careful assessment of your abilities and skills, we tap into our large network of professional contacts to find a solution where your best talents shine. Contact us today to discover how we can help you fill your employment dreams.
