A job search is a journey filled with highs and lows, and near hits and misses. After an employer shows interest and you seem so close to finally reaching your goal, the moment of receiving the news that the hiring manager has opted to go with another candidate can be a crushing blow to a job seeker’s hopeful spirit. While it may feel especially disheartening to go back to square one, it’s an opportunity to regroup and come back more focused and motivated than before. Check out these five tips on bouncing back after not getting the job:

Don’t Use It as a Measure of Your Worth 

Candidates are not selected for a vast array of reasons – just because you were not the right candidate does not mean you are a bad candidate. If you made it far enough in the process that a potential employer showed interest, you were ahead of most of your competition. Don’t give up hope or feel down on yourself. Instead, stay persistent so you can be prepared to strike when you find a better opportunity.

Be Honest With Yourself 

While not being selected for the job may be the result of another candidate having a background more suited for the job or fitting better with company culture, there may be factors you could improve upon. For example, maybe you didn’t prepare for the interview as much as you could have. Remember: it’s not about blaming yourself. It’s about taking back control so you can improve your chances going forward.

Reevaluate Your Strategy 

Repeating the same actions will typically yield the same results. Experiment with your job search by trying out new techniques, such as venturing away from online job boards and trying out a staffing firm instead, or personalizing your cover letters. If it doesn’t work, try something else until you find a formula for success.

Ask for Feedback 

Follow up a few days after a job rejection and ask if they could give you any detail or feedback for improvement. Hiring managers may be intentionally vague out of fear of conflict or even litigation; however, if you approach your request professionally and don’t come across demanding or combative, you may be able to get constructive criticism about improvements for your resume or interview tactics.

Make Yourself More Marketable 

If you’re between jobs, fill in any resume gaps by demonstrating self-improvement and an ambitious attitude. Rather than remaining completely out of the workforce until a full-time job comes along, consider taking on freelance or temporary work to keep your skills fresh and boost your confidence.

A job rejection can be a good thing because it gives you the chance to find a job that’s an even better fit. Expand your horizon and start looking for opportunities in new places with the help of PrideStaff San Jose, a staffing firm serving the San Jose area. We find candidates the job opportunities with San Jose employers that best match their skill sets. Search our available jobs today to get started.