You met the qualifications, you felt good about your answers to those tricky interview questions, and you put a great deal of time and energy into preparing. You’re feeling pretty good about your odds, then you receive that dreaded rejection email. Even worse, it’s the same generic email everyone else who interviewed got. It’s natural to be disappointed, but try looking at the situation as an opportunity.

Every job interview is a learning experience. If you’re confused about why you didn’t get the job, the best thing you can do to gain insight and improve is to ask for feedback.

Here’s how to swallow your pride and ask for valuable post-interview feedback:

Respond Quickly
Don’t drag your feet responding. The longer you wait, the less likely the interviewer will be able to remember specific reasons as memories won’t be as fresh. By replying as soon as you get the rejection email, you’ll be able to use their helpful feedback as you move forward in your job search.
*TIP* Send an email back (or send them on a message on LinkedIn) saying you’re appreciative they took the time to meet with you, then ask if they could spare 10 minutes for a phone call in the coming days to provide some constructive input to enhance your skills.

Put Emphasis on the Future
What’s done is done, so there’s no point in dwelling on it. Instead of asking for what you did wrong, ask for ways you can improve.
*TIP* Ask questions like: “Did you identify any key qualifications for this job which were missing in my background?”, “Do you have any suggestions regarding how I might improve upon articulating my experiences?”

Positivity
Don’t start the conversation out appearing to question the validity of their hiring decisions. This will surely end all communication very quickly. Instead, it’s important to maintain a professional attitude and disposition every step of the way. Just because you didn’t get the job this time, doesn’t mean the hiring manager wasn’t impressed with you.
*TIP* By continuing to impress the interviewer after you’ve been rejected, you’ll set yourself up for success with any future opportunities.

Learn from your interview by giving it an honest look. By strategically asking for feedback, you have nothing to lose. Worst case scenario, the employer won’t respond. Best case scenario, you may get information to help improve your interview skills and overall job search.

Partnering with an ETS Recruiter for your job search? Asking for feedback just got even easier.

Our deep ties and close relationships with employers throughout the region gives us a direct-line to top level contacts, garnering open and honest feedback to share with you. Don’t go at the job search alone. Partner with an ETS Recruiter >> Schedule an appointment now.