On Job Interviews and Rejection

The job search: a revelatory and exfoliating process in which participants metabolize the cycle of hope and rejection.

When I was discussing a recent job rejection, my friend Gerik shared a story he had heard of someone who intentionally set out to be rejected 100 times in one year and ended up finding opportunity in the process. That sounded like a good story, so I looked it up. Here’s what I found:

Jia Jiang: What I Learned from 100 Days of Rejection (TedxMtHood)

Rejection sucks, let’s be honest. Putting yourself out there, framing an ask, and building hope around an idea can feel both brave and terrifying. Whether it’s applying for a job or asking someone on a date, it’s a vulnerable spot. And, while hearing “no” is part of life, it’s not fun. Sure, it’s a numbers game. Sure, it means something else is out there. It’s still a big ole bummer.

We’ve all been rejected in job searches. In my recent case, I have often gotten to the final round of interviews for positions I would have loved and rocked but didn’t make the final cut. The disappointment is real, and the self-doubt seems inevitable. Getting back on the horse may not seem to make sense. Here are a few guidelines I’ve developed for myself on my ongoing search for finding that great position.

• Be willing to fall in love with a job during the application process. I tend to go all in with my heart. Research, ask around, apply, interview. If you can’t imagine loving the job, why apply?
• The interview is not just a part of an application process; it’s a networking opportunity. Enjoy connecting with people in the field who care about the same work as you. As a bonus, it can help calm the nerves.
• Rescinding an application is scary, and also okay. The search process needs to be right for everyone, including you.
• Didn’t get the job? It’s okay to grieve… for up to one day.
• Ask for feedback from the hiring manager, perhaps in an informational interview. What can you learn from the process and the field to strengthen the next effort?
• Step back. What did you learn about yourself, your interests, upcoming opportunities? What do you know now that you didn’t know before?

I’ve met a number of pretty great people in my search so far and hope to find ways to work with them in future. I have also become a connoisseur of hiring processes and will be a better hiring manager in future because of it.

What I learned at life today: Embrace the exfoliating qualities of hope-saturated rejection.