What to do when it does not work.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Far more rejections than offers.
WHY
Processes are competitive, and fit is specific.
WHAT REJECTION USUALLY MEANS
Someone matched better, or the role changed.
WHAT IT RARELY MEANS
That you are inadequate.
WHAT TO DO IMMEDIATELY
Ask for feedback, politely.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Frequently nothing, or something generic.
WHY
Employers are cautious about specific feedback.
WHAT TO DO WITH SPECIFIC FEEDBACK
Take it seriously, particularly if it recurs.
WHAT RECURRING FEEDBACK INDICATES
Something to address.
WHAT TO TRACK
Where in the process you are rejected.
WHY
It identifies the weak point.
WHAT EARLY REJECTION SUGGESTS
The application, or a genuine mismatch.
WHAT TECHNICAL STAGE REJECTION SUGGESTS
Preparation or ability gaps.
WHAT FINAL STAGE REJECTION SUGGESTS
Close competition, or fit.
WHAT TO DO ABOUT EACH
Adjust the corresponding thing.
WHAT NOT TO DO
Apply to more roles without changing anything Argue with the decision Take it personally enough to stop
WHAT TO MAINTAIN
A rate of applications you can sustain.
WHY
Searching is exhausting, and pace matters more than intensity.
WHAT TO REMEMBER
One offer is sufficient.
