Got Rejected? Get Feedback!
Interview Rejection Feedback
Nobody wants to get rejected from their interview. Sometimes an interview can be really useful in showing you why you don’t want that job or to work with that particular organisation. Sometimes the interview confirms exactly why you DID want the that job or to work with these people. If this is the case, when you do get that “No”, then this is the time request interview rejection feedback.
Firstly, from the inside of ourselves we do not have an objective view of how we presented in that time slot. We can guess at why we weren’t successful in securing the role this time, but, ‘the thing’ we are busy berating ourselves for ‘not having said or done’ might not be the reason for our rejection this time. I don’t know about you, but, mind-reading has never been one of my true skills!
Secondly, If you can get feedback then be prepared to really hear it. It might be valid, it might not, but do not be defensive about what you hear. You have asked for someone’s time and opinion so it is gracious to listen and to be thank for that. You can tease what you hear apart later. You can find someone who can hear you and see what bits are of value after this meeting.
Questions to ask:
It might be really tempting to ask “What made you choose the other candidate over me? “. Avoid travelling down this route for it betrays a darker, envious side. My suggestion is that you centre your questions around yourself. What could I have done better? What else were you looking for? What could I do to increase my chances next time? Keep your questions open and be open to the answers too.
What I observe is that where organisations are willing to give feedback, which takes a generosity of time, then this could be a marker you were not far off their mark. It could also be a sign that this is an organisation or business who are worth working for as they are willing to provide this input.
“If you can get feedback then be prepared to really hear it.”
Sometimes the feedback will be something you know already. Sometimes it’s a shock. Sometimes what we think we are conveying, is simply not translating. Sometime it might feel unfair. Either which way, honour that feedback and receive it elegantly.
Sometimes getting hired is about playing the long game and building the relationships. This way You might just be on their ‘next’ list for future opportunities. They do say it’s who you know not what? Personally I believe it is a strong combination of three things: Bring your unique set of skills, knowledge and experiences. Bring an openness to learning. Bring the willingness to foster relationships. These three contributions form a winning combination.