Looking for a new job or even your first start in your career is challenging.
Sometimes you will be successful and at other times it will be rejection.
If it’s the latter (rejection), it’s really easy to go into a negative frame of mind.
To start believing that there’s something wrong with you because you aren’t getting a job.
We all know that at the end of the day there’s only so much you can do.
My take on job search is that you shouldn’t be disappointed if you didn’t get the job if you did the following.
You were targeted
By that I mean you applied for a job that was a good fit between what you had to offer and what the employer was looking for.
You took time to tailor your application
One CV or covering letter just isn’t going to cut it.
You have to be willing to take the time to tailor your application.
You did your research
When I started out in my career over 40 years ago it was hard to find out about an organisation.
These days the internet, search engines and online and offline networks makes it easy to do your research.
You identified potential questions and wrote out answers
Everyone does this don’t they?
Yes but to a varying degree of rigour.
Believe it not some people identify less than 10 potential questions.
Some identify questions but don’t write out answers.
You practiced answering questions
As a minimum you practiced answering questions out loud.
Ideally you will have video recorded yourself answering questions.
Even better have done a mock interview with someone.
You managed your nerves
Without doubt you will be nervous.
Nerves are completely normal.
It’s all about making sure they don’t adversely impact on how you perform on the day
You answered the questions they asked
Not those that you wished you had been asked.
You sold yourself
The interview is a selling opportunity.
It’s important you sell yourself and your value.
You asked the hiring manager good questions
This can often differentiate you from other candidates.
Don’t lose out on this opportunity
In truth rejection is part and parcel of searching for a job. Just don’t get rejected because of something that you could have influenced.