Transform Job Rejections into Networking Opportunities: A Game-Changing Strategy

If you’re having a hard time getting traction in your job search, remember to focus on your small achievements, like attending a networking event or signing up for a new course.

Even if you’ve recently heard “no” from an employer, there’s still a way to move your job search forward with them. Jolen Anderson, chief people and community officer at BetterUp, shares a powerful strategy:

See it as a New Opportunity for Your Network

It’s hard to hear “no” when you’ve spent weeks or months interviewing for a job. But try to see it as a new opportunity for your network. You’ve spent hours with the recruiter and team members, building personal connections.

When you respond, if there was someone you connected with, send them a message thanking them for their time. You might say something like, “I’m sorry that my skills didn’t align with this role. Are there other opportunities at the company that might be a match for me, or can you introduce me to others in your network?”

I’ve Sometimes Referred Those People to Friends

You can send that note via email or LinkedIn, or ask the recruiter to forward it on your behalf. The worst-case scenario is that the person doesn’t respond. However, there’s no shame in advocating for yourself. Anderson mentions that she has received such messages and has “sometimes referred those people to friends, to other jobs, to other roles” because she recognized their talent.

It’s a tough job market, but ultimately, everyone hopes people are employed where they can be successful and thrive, adding value to a company.