Turning Rejection into Opportunity: How to Respond to a Rejection Email (2024)

Rejection is never easy.

Rejection when you REALLY want a job is extremely disppointing, but there is a way to reply to the rejection email with poise to leave the doors open for the future.

Here are some tips on how to make a positive impression, even in defeat.

1. Don't just thank the employer for their time, express your interest in the company for future opporunities.
2. It's okay to be disappointment - Let the employer know that you are disappointed but understand and respect their desicision
3. You never know unless you ask..so ask if they would be willing to provide feedback on your application andor interview so you can improve on future opportunities.
4. Not easy but stay positive. Thank the employer again for the opportunity, and express your interest in staying in touch, and connect with them on LinkedIN...you never know who they know.

What an example reply can look like?

Below are four examples you can keep in your "back pocket"

But above all, hang in there. Life isn't ALL bad.

Turn your story around to the fact that it wasn't meant to be because something better awaits you and belive it....

Because it's true!

Example 1:

Dear [Employer's Name],

Thank you for your email and for taking the time to review my application. I appreciate the opportunity to be considered for the [Position Name] role at [Company Name]. While I am disappointed that I was not selected for the position, I understand that you had many qualified candidates to choose from.

If you have the time, I would be grateful for any feedback you could provide on my application (or interview). I am committed to continuously improving my skills and qualifications, and any feedback you could offer would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you again for your consideration, and I wish you and your team all the best. I hope we can stay in touch, as I would be honored to be considered for any future career openings you could see fitting your team and company.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Example 2:

Subject: Thank You for the Opportunity

Dear [Employer's Name],

Thank you for getting back to me and letting me know about your decision. I appreciate the time and consideration that your team gave me throughout the interview process.

I am disappointed that I was not selected for the position, but I understand that you had many qualified candidates to choose from. I wanted to express my gratitude for the opportunity to learn more about your company and the role.

If you have any feedback or constructive criticism, I would be grateful to hear it. I am always looking for ways to improve my skills and qualifications, and I believe that feedback is crucial in that process.

Thank you again for your time, and I wish you all the best in your search for the right candidate.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Example 3:

Subject: Re: [Position Name] Application

Dear [Employer's Name],

Thank you for your email and letting me know about your decision. While I am disappointed to hear that I wasn't selected, I appreciate you getting back to me and providing closure.

As I am sure you are aware, I still remain interested in working for [Company Name], but would appreciate any feedback or insights you can share about my application or interview. Your feedback would be helpful as I continue my job search as I aim to improve my skills.

Thank you again for the opportunity to learn more about you and your company.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Example 4:

Subject: Thank You: Your Name (Interview position)

Dear [Employer's Name],

Thank you for informing me about your decision regarding the [Position Name]. I appreciate your time and effort throughout the interview process.

While I am disappointed to hear that I did not get the position, no doubt you had many qualified candidates to choose from. I am grateful for the opportunity to interview and learn more about you, your team and [Company Name].

If you don't mind, I would appreciate any feedback or comments that you can provide regarding our meetings. It would be helpful to understand how I could improve my skills and qualifications for future opportunities.

Thank you again, for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Jessica Glazer is the Founder and Strategic Recruitment director at MindHR INC an executive search firm, resume writing and career coaching company