When you’re looking for a job, getting rejected usually comes with the territory. While it’s disheartening to hear you weren’t selected after participating in an interview, the rejection can also serve as an opportunity. By asking for feedback, you can learn how to improve your position as a candidate the next time, increasing your odds of succeeding.
Requesting feedback may seem daunting, but it’s typically reasonably simple. Here’s a look at how to request feedback when you’ve been rejected for a job.
Make the Request Over Email
Even if you’re informed that you didn’t get the job over the phone, it’s best to request feedback over email. First, email doesn’t require an immediate response. That gives the hiring manager time to consider what they can share and how best to share it. It also may get you a more in-depth answer, particularly if the hiring manager happens to be pressed for time during their decision call or when you reach out again.
Typically, you want to send the email within 24 hours of learning you weren’t selected. By doing so, not so much time has passed that the hiring manager may not remember key details.
Start with Appreciation
While you might want to dive in and learn what you could do to improve your position as a candidate, it’s best to begin your email by showcasing your appreciation. Let the hiring manager know that you appreciate them considering you for the role and thank them for their time. Along with increasing the odds that they’ll provide feedback, that ensures you’re making a positive impression after learning of the rejection, which can play in your favor if you ever apply for a role at that company in the future.
Ask About How You Can Improve
When it’s time to request feedback, make sure to frame it correctly. Often, it’s best to let the hiring manager know your goal is to improve your odds in the future. Then, ask them how you could improve. This approach is open-ended, giving the hiring manager some flexibility regarding how they respond. Additionally, the tone isn’t negative or accusatory.
Accept the Feedback
After receiving feedback, resist the urge to counter any points made. Instead, accept the feedback for what it is: an attempt by the hiring manager to help.
What you do with the feedback is ultimately up to you, but arguing about what’s shared is never wise. It could cause you to miss out on future opportunities. Fighting back makes a negative impression, so it’s better to thank them for their input no matter what’s shared. Then, based on their guidance, you can decide what you do and don’t want to implement.
Don’t Press for More
Whether a hiring manager provides feedback or states that they aren’t able to offer any guidance, don’t press them for more information. Hiring managers may only be allowed to share some information about your performance or may feel uncomfortable with diving deeper. Trying to get them to provide more details won’t make a positive impression if that’s the case.
Ultimately, the approach above is highly effective if you want to request feedback after being rejected for a job. If you’d like to learn more or would like to partner with a recruiter during your job search, Premier Staffing Inc. wants to hear from you. Contact us today.