Rejection.
We've all been there, haven't we? Unfortunately, these things happen, and it's natural to be disappointed when a job opportunity slips through the cracks.
However, try not to dwell on it for too long. There are a few things you can do to stay cheerful while you seek for the appropriate job for you.
Continue on, you've got this!
TRY JOURNALISM.
Journaling is an excellent stress-reduction technique. Writing our ideas down on paper allows us to channel negative emotions and identify problems so that we may easily work through them.
Don't be concerned about the words. Simply write down whatever comes to mind, as if you were the only one reading it. The benefit of journaling is that no precise format or structure is required. This is your space to express your darkest emotions.
So be free to express yourself. You'll be shocked at how much lighter you'll feel afterward.
REQUEST FEEDBACK
It can be intimidating to seek feedback. However, it is the best gift you could ever receive because it shifts your focus and directs your attention to the areas that require improvement.
If you are turned down for a position, send an email to the hiring manager requesting comments. Whether it's your CV, experience, or interview method that needs tweaking, one easy response will tell you where you can improve.
You could contact family and friends and ask them to review your application as well. It only takes a fresh set of eyes to point you in the correct direction, and you're one step closer to securing your ideal role.
PERSONALISE YOUR APPLICATION
A recruiter isn't interested in what you ate for dinner last night when they scan your CV. Neither do you explain why Zayn Malik left One Direction.
They want to know if you have the necessary abilities for the job and can perform it better than anyone else. Each position you apply for will require a unique set of skills.
And, as cool as it would be to send the same CV to every single employer out there, doing so would be a huge disservice to yourself. Recruiters can detect a generic application a mile away. Don't make yours one of them.
So, how do you customise your CV? Here are some pointers to keep in mind to ensure that your application fits the job requirements and stands out from the crowd:
Examine the job description and mark any key words or phrases. Then, on a separate sheet of paper, list these and categorise them as soft skills, hard skills, and work experience. You can then incorporate them into your CV.
Make changes to your personal statement. Tell the recruiter why you want to work in this industry and for this organisation. Passion speaks for itself. If you can convey that in your application, you will be more likely to get called in for an interview.
Examine your work history to ensure that your tasks correspond to those specified in the job description. The more closely your application matches the post, the better your chances of making the shortlist.
REMAIN OPEN TO OPTIONS
When applying for jobs, make sure you send your application to as many employers as possible. As tempting as it is to put all your eggs in one basket, sending many personalised applications boosts your chances of landing the job.
Keep in mind that there could be 20, 40, or 350 applications for the same position. Because competition is fierce, don't take it personally if you don't hear back. Every event occurs for a reason.
Maybe things didn't go as planned because you were meant for something better. Maintain your cool and get to work. You'll get there in the end.
PRIORITISE THE GOODS
It's natural to be disappointed when a career opportunity fails. Especially if you've tried your hardest and poured your heart and soul into your application. But don't let one setback bring you down. Life is all about conquering obstacles. It is the bouncing back that is important.
Why not pick up the phone and call a friend to raise your spirits? Or why not go for a walk in the park? Nature is naturally restorative, and spending time in it can significantly improve your attitude.
Remember, we can't take care of our careers unless we first take care of ourselves. So go ahead and do what you need to do. Schedule that exercise class, movie ticket, or weekend getaway. You'll feel better and more invigorated than ever before. Ready to take on the next batch of applicants.