When you’re looking for a job, this can be one of the most emotionally difficult comments to ever hear or read. You’ve gone through the entire interviewing process. You met with the head of HR, had a round-table group interview with 8 executives and then did some analytical testing, all to see if you qualified for a position that you’re interested in.
After going though all of that, maybe spending a month or 2 waiting to see if you were good enough to secure this position, and then you find out that they went with a different candidate, you just hurt inside. Feeling dejected, wondering what your worth is. Going over and over in your mind “I should have said this instead of that.” It’s like being one of the final 2 contestants on “American Idol”, and you’re the one that doesn’t get the recording contract.
The point is, you are good enough that you were considered. You are at the top of the heap to have gone through that entire process. You do have the skills to handle the job. You just weren’t a match for what the company felt they needed and were looking for. Staying positive and upbeat is not easy in these situations. It’s can be tough emotionally. What you want is a good fit for the company and for you. You don’t want to be the square peg in the round hole. You want and need to fit and work together the right way.
So say and think to yourself “On to the next“. Be that “Diamond in the rough” for another company. You can do it, and your worth it!
This is a really good point Joel…the process of finding a job, especially in today’s economy can be quite brutal. I believe they are saying the average length of time to become employed is 18 months…that is tough. Getting through the initial screening to even being considered for an interview is a huge accomplishment, but then going through the entire interview process and being told you were not chosen can be so devastating. The rule of thumb for sales is that it takes 8 no’s to get to 1 yes…I think that rings true in this process too. Hearing no, no, no can be so difficult.
Your advice is spot on, keeping an upbeat positive attitude is the most important thing you can do. It’s ok to have a few close friends to share your sad, down moments with – but you must remain positive and remember that every connection you make, every relationship you build is one step closer to that perfect job. Be on your best game always when you are out in the world talking to people, even if you don’t think they will be the connection that gets you inside for an interview. Here are two good books I recommend for job hunters:
1. Knock em Dead 2011 – The Ultimate Job Search Guide – http://ht.ly/3tcbV
2. The Little Gold Book of Yes Attitude – http://ht.ly/3tceC
Thanks Nicole. This is one of the BIG THINGS in life for many people, which can also cause the most emotional pain. Thanks for the book suggestions!
Hi Joel, I’ve found that the jobs I approach with an attitude of ‘I really want this’ never seem to pan out. But the interviews where I honestly don’t give two hoots about the job, are the ones I always nail.
It’s like dating, everyone wants to be wanted, but nobody wants someone who wants. (confusing?)
I understand what you mean Sean. :)