Didn’t Win the Job? What To do now.

Getting rejected from a job you were excited about can be tough, especially if you felt confident about your interview performance. You may wonder why you didn’t get the job and what you could do better next time. One of the most effective ways to gain clarity and improve is to ask for feedback.

Is It Okay to Ask for Feedback?

Absolutely! Asking for feedback after an interview rejection is acceptable and can be incredibly beneficial for your career growth. It shows that you’re motivated to learn and improve, and it can open the door for future company opportunities.

Why You Should Ask for Feedback

1. Learn and Grow: Feedback provides valuable insights into areas where you can improve, whether it’s your interview technique, specific skills, or how you present yourself on paper. This powerful knowledge can significantly increase your chances of success in future interviews.
2. Keep the Door Open: Demonstrating a willingness to learn from feedback shows resilience and professionalism, qualities that might make you memorable when other opportunities arise.
3. Gain Closure: Asking for feedback can help you move on with a clearer understanding of what went wrong, preventing you from dwelling on the “what ifs.”

When Is the Best Time to Ask for Feedback?

Timing Is Key: Give yourself time to process the rejection emotionally, but don’t wait too long. Ideally, it would be best to reach out within a week of receiving the rejection. This gives the hiring manager time to reflect on your interview but ensures that your performance is still fresh in their mind​ (Proofed)​ (GetCoverLetter).

How to Ask for Feedback

Choosing the Right Method: The best way to ask for feedback depends on prior communication with the interviewer. If your interactions were primarily over email, continuing in that format is appropriate. However, if you’ve had more personal contact, such as phone conversations, a phone call may be more effective​ (UpJourney)​ (Proofed).

Script for an Email Request:

Subject: Request for Feedback Following Interview for [Position Name]

 

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

Thank you for considering my application for the [Position Name] role at [Company Name]. Although I am disappointed not to be selected, I genuinely appreciate the opportunity to learn more about your team and company.

I am committed to continuous improvement and would be grateful for any feedback you could provide regarding my interview or application. Your insights would be invaluable as I refine my approach for future opportunities.

Thank you again for your time and consideration. I look forward to staying in touch and hope to be considered for future openings.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Script for a Phone Request:

“Thank you for informing me about the decision. While I’m disappointed, I’m eager to learn and improve. Could you provide some feedback on my interview or application? Any suggestions on better aligning with future opportunities would be greatly appreciated.”

Dos and Don’ts When Asking for Feedback

Do:

Be Professional and Gracious: Always thank the interviewer for their time and consideration.

Be Specific: Ask focused questions that elicit helpful feedback, such as, “Are there specific skills I should develop?” or “Was there something about my interview that could have been stronger?”

Please Keep an Open Mind: Be ready to hear constructive criticism and use it to improve.

Don’t:

Don’t Argue or Defend: Accept the feedback gracefully even if you disagree with it. Arguing will only harm your professional reputation.

Don’t Be Pushy: If the interviewer cannot provide feedback, thank them anyway and move on.

What to Do If You Don’t Receive Feedback

Unfortunately, many companies have policies that prevent them from providing feedback, often for legal reasons. If you don’t receive a response, don’t take it personally. Instead, focus on what you can control—improving your skills and preparing for the next opportunity​ (Proofed)​ (GetCoverLetter).

Where Do I Go from Here?

Use the feedback you receive to create an improvement plan. Whether refining your resume, practicing your interview skills, or gaining new qualifications, every bit of feedback can help you get closer to landing your dream job. Keep applying, keep learning, and don’t lose heart—your next opportunity is out there.