It is clear that receiving a "thanks, but no thanks" message in job hunting is always a disappointment. Time and enthusiasm feel wasted, and preparing to start a new search feels heavy. But this is also the decisive moment in job hunting. By playing your cards right, you can significantly improve your chances for the next search.
Read below for a few tips on how to turn the situation into your victory!
First reaction
The way you react to bad news when a recruiting process ends unsuccessfully can affect the outcome of your next application process. You do not need to hide your disappointment from the recruiter. However, remember to ask for feedback from the recruiter whenever possible: what could you do differently next time? Is there something you could develop in job interviews, for example, or something you should emphasize more? Keep in mind that the recruiter or their colleague might have another position open or opening that suits you. When you act professionally and face setbacks cooperatively, you leave a positive impression and keep the door open for the next opening position.
Learn and refine
Once the initial sting of disappointment fades, you should evaluate the entire application process as objectively as possible. By learning from your experience and utilizing what you have learned in the future, you are once again a significant step closer to success – your dream job. For example, think about whether you were asked questions in the interview that you were poorly prepared for and would have wanted to answer differently. Did the recruiter mention that you lack skills or experience in a certain area? Could you supplement your expertise by studying independently or completing a certificate?
Resume the search
It is time to get back to business, the job hunting itself. Especially for an early career professional, jobs are rarely found without being active yourself. Fortunately, there are many ways to do this:
- Many jobs are filled in the so-called traditional style by applying for an open position. Take a look at the open jobs at Academic Work – could you find a suitable one there?
- Activate your Job subscription and follow other relevant job portals so you can be among the first to apply for new openings and thus increase your chances.
- Is your job hunting profile in order? By registering to be headhunted and keeping your LinkedIn profile up to date, you ensure that recruiters find you when they are doing hidden searches.
- Consider other ways of job hunting: could your networks be of use? Or a LinkedIn post? Or could you expand your job search to another city or even abroad?
Challenge your own thinking Often we find ourselves always browsing the same job portals with the same filters, or checking the career pages of the same familiar employers. There are over 260,000 limited companies in Finland alone, including many interesting businesses. Boldly look for open jobs in different places!
Large employers often have the most jobs and the most visible job advertisements, but they also often attract the most applicants. By expanding your search criteria to include small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), you might find many opportunities you were not previously aware of. These often have fewer applicants, which can be to your advantage!
Good luck with your job hunting!