Rejection is something that everyone fears. Whether it’s a crush not liking you back or a friend turning you down, nobody wants to be told no. Unfortunately, rejection is a part of life, and that doesn’t just mean in your personal life. Professional rejection is something that everyone will have to face, especially students or recent graduates who are trying to make their way into the workforce. While it might seem like the end of the world at the time, it’s far from it.
Professional rejection can come in a variety of forms. Maybe you didn’t get a spot in that internship program you really wanted, or maybe you thought you had an amazing job interview, only to find out you didn’t get the position you hoped for. Sure, these things are disappointing, and it’s perfectly okay to be upset over it, but you shouldn’t let it ruin your confidence.
It’s easy to hear no from someone and want to give up altogether. Instead, try focusing on the positive aspects of the situation. For example, say you interviewed for a position at your dream company, but you didn’t get the job. Use this as an opportunity to discover what mistakes you may have made or what skills and experiences you lacked. Then, take time to build your skillset and background so that you can avoid these mistakes in your next interview. If nothing else, professional rejection can serve as great practice for the future.
It hurts to say, but rejection is something that if you haven’t already faced, you most likely will at some point. The professional world is an extremely competitive place, and not everybody is going to be able to jump right into the exact spot they want to be. That would be too easy. Take rejection as an opportunity to grow and strengthen yourself so that in the future you will be more prepared. Chances are if you were turned down for something, it’s because there is a better opportunity still waiting for you. When it’s really meant to be, you’ll know.