How do you deal with rejection?

Ask a Biologist Monday 2/14/22

Answers from Biologists:

• I ask them “how can I better myself for opportunities in the future?” Then I work on it.

• Feel sad a bit, then look up the amazing work of those who got it and get inspired for the next opportunity.

• Call or write to thank them for the opportunity, then ask how you could have done better.

• I had a sticker book and gave myself a cute sticker every time I got a rejection.

• For me, it means something bigger and better is meant for me later.

• Ask them for constructive criticism on my interview and resume/experience.

• There are often so many great candidates and the decision can come down to something random.

• I cry for a day, then I keep applying for jobs. It’s a numbers game.

• Chin up! It doesn’t feel personal when there’s so much great competition.

• The job probably wasn’t meant for me. Even with rejection, you may make a great contact. Stay in touch!

• Ask what qualifications/experience chosen candidates had and how to improve.

• I use it as motivation to try harder and an opportunity to try something else.

• I apply expecting to get rejected.

• Focus on what went well and how to improve for next time. Rejection doesn’t mean bad!

• Just keep cranking out applications for what I want. Eventually something sticks.

• I try not to hype up the position and tell minimal people until hired. Less pressure.

• If I get a lot of rejections in a row, I take an emotional break for a bit before continuing to apply.

• It’s a huge field and there will always be more opportunities. It doesn’t reflect my own skills.

• Resilience in rejection makes me unstoppable! How much do you want to keep going?

• Remember that it’s normal, was good practice, and gets your name out there. Connections matter!

• I try to remember that I’m relatively new at this and keep looking for opportunities to grow.