In the beginning there was anticipation
Imagine this scenario: You've stumbled upon a job posting while checking your smartphone or reading the newspaper this morning. Your dream job is practically within reach, but one thing at a time. First things first: you need to apply. Of course, writing applications always takes time, but for your dream job, you'll put extra effort into your application materials, using a sample job application as inspiration. You'll probably hire a photographer who captures you in your best light while also highlighting your professionalism. You'll update your resume and write a cover letter that demonstrates your connection to the company and the value you bring to the role. Someone you know will also review your application. Everything is ready and sent – now it's time to wait.
But what if, instead of the hoped-for invitation to a personal interview, you receive a rejection? This can initially trigger self-doubt, because the exact reason for the rejection is rarely mentioned these days. Was the application not perfect after all? Am I not good enough for the company or the job? Was I too arrogant? First and foremost: Don't immediately question your entire personality. Even though rejection isn't a pleasant experience for anyone, a rejected application can also be an opportunity that gives your career a boost. The following five reasons could be the cause of a rejection.
Reason 1: Pro-forma tenders
Sometimes you come across job postings that sound fantastic and undoubtedly attract a large number of applications. In such situations, applicants often turn to a sample job application as guidance when preparing their own documents. Nevertheless, you won't receive any offers, no matter how much time and effort you've invested in your application materials or whether you're the ideal candidate for the position. These job postings are merely pro forma advertisements, published only because legal regulations require it. In reality, the intention is to fill the position with an internal employee of the respective company. You can sometimes discern this simply from the job posting itself. A clear indication is when the advertisement is written in such a way as to present an idealized image of the ideal candidate. Similarly, it's often accompanied by specific experience and qualifications that are virtually impossible for an external applicant to meet.
Reason 2: No consensus on salary expectations
While money alone doesn't bring happiness, the pay should be right. But what does that mean for you, what does it mean for the company, and, even more importantly, do these two perspectives align? Job postings often ask you to state your salary expectations with your application. Sometimes the company's budget doesn't match your personal expectations. No one expects you to sell yourself short, but be critical. When preparing your application materials, ask yourself if your expectations are realistic. Further research online about the average salary for this job, this industry, and the region where you'd like to work can be helpful.
Reason 3: The availability is incorrect.
When will the position be available at the company, and when would you be ready to start? If your expectations are too far apart, it's quite possible that you're not the company's first choice – especially if your notice period is very long, but the company needs you immediately. This could also be a reason why another candidate was chosen over you.
Reason 4: The cultural fit is not right
In this case, the rejection comes only after the personal interview. Simply put, there was no chemistry between you and the recruiter. This can happen, but it's still frustrating for you as an applicant, especially if the job really appealed to you. Don't despair, though. Often easier said than done, but despite the disappointment, a long-term collaboration wouldn't have been beneficial for either you or the company. If it's not a good fit on a personal level, it's simply not a good fit, and you can't force rapport. So don't feel guilty about it.
Reason 5: Qualifications embellished
In your application, you always present yourself in the best possible light and want to appear as the perfect fit for the company. Surely everyone, including recruiters, has embellished their profile a little at some point to make themselves more attractive to potential employers. However, exaggerating your qualifications to the point where they ultimately differ from reality usually leads to a rejection, and rightly so. Therefore, be honest and don't invent qualifications you don't possess.
Turning rejection into success
On the one hand, there are potential reasons for rejection that you probably won't even be told. On the other hand, you want to learn from this experience and not repeat it. Therefore, the first step you should take is to follow up. Did you receive the rejection via a standard letter? Then pick up the phone or write a friendly email and request feedback, perhaps comparing your approach to a sample job application for guidance. The key here is tone. Remain polite; perhaps the company will advertise another position in the future that you'd like to apply for. Even if you probably won't get a response from every company, you can certainly gain valuable information from the recruiter that will help you improve your application process in the long run. A friendly follow-up might even leave a lasting positive impression on the HR manager and increase your chances of a "yes" if you apply to the same company again.
Our tip: Write every application as if it were your first. Even if your motivation sometimes wanes, always personalize your documents and stay authentic! Discover exciting opportunities on our job board and feel free to send us an unsolicited application – we look forward to hearing from you!