What To Do When You Don't Get The Job

You researched the company, submitted your application and sat in the interview. But after the agony of waiting to hear back, turns out you didn't get the job. Now you ask yourself this question: "What's my next move?" It's difficult to hear news like this - especially when you invested time and effort into getting the job. The good news is that it can still be worth it.

1 - Find out why.

Anyone who truly wants a job, who gives their all and works their hardest, would be curious if they didn't get the job. That person would be desperate for an explanation because they want to learn. Yes, be confident and know your skills. That's important. But, if you allow a "no" win over you, you'll walk away gaining nothing. So if someone else got the job, learn why.

2 - Connect.

Whether or not you got the job, let's hope you at least impressed them. If that's the case, a new opportunity arises for you: gain some contacts. Take advantage of this experience by connecting with the interviewers on LinkedIn. They'll then see your progress, what you're working on, and where you're going. That might pay off in the future.

3 - Document what you learned.

The best thing to do now is document what you learned. Write a blog post, record a video - whatever you prefer. Just make sure you know which areas you need to develop. However, maybe you simply just weren't the right fit. Sometimes the problem might be with the business, not your potential. But, that goes back to why finding out is important - so you can learn if/what you need to change.

More opportunities will come. Usually, you have to create them yourself. The main lesson here is to keep trying, keep working hard, and keep looking for ways to set yourself apart.