So, you applied for a job but unfortunately didn\u2019t land it. Want to know what you can do to boost your chances next time? The first step you can take is to request feedback on your job application – it can provide you with invaluable insights which you can take with you moving forward. So, how exactly can you go about this? Talent\u2019s Melbourne Managing Director, Simon Yeung, provides his recommendations:<\/p>\n
Yeung suggests asking for feedback relatively quickly after finding out you were unsuccessful, \u201cyour application will still be fresh in their mind, so they can provide you with relevant and detailed feedback\u201d. It\u2019s also a great idea to go in with specific questions so that the hiring manager can really hone in on what you want to know. You can ask what they perceived your greatest weaknesses to be, or whether your qualifications and experience were sufficient. You want your feedback to be as clear and specific as possible. This will allow you to easily identify where improvements can be made, and will enable you to work towards being that ideal candidate in future.<\/p>\n
Yeung says that \u201cmaintaining a positive attitude is key\u201d. Don\u2019t go in on the defence when seeking feedback. Go into it with a positive attitude. You aren\u2019t going in there to interrogate the recruitment manager as to why you didn\u2019t get the job \u2013 you want feedback as to how you can improve in future. Make sure to frame it this way when approaching the topic. Enter with an angry mindset and the manager will be thinking \u201cphew, we dodged a bullet\u201d. This isn\u2019t what you want to be remembered for.<\/p>\n
Yeung suggests \u201casking questions for self-improvement\u201d. Ask relevant questions that will allow you to make improvements to become the best version of yourself you can be. Taking the time to collect this feedback and to self-reflect, will allow you to do just this. Maybe it involves upskilling or gaining more experience. Whatever it may be, be open to making changes and making the most of the opportunities this feedback can bring.<\/p>\n
Yeung advocates for having a thick skin when asking for feedback, \u201cDon\u2019t be too sensitive when it comes to receiving feedback. It is meant to be constructive\u201d. Use it as motivation to be your best self. Maybe your qualifications or experience aren\u2019t there, and that\u2019s fine. This particular job probably wasn\u2019t the right fit – now have the opportunity to apply elsewhere,. Otherwise, this is the perfect opportunity to update your skills so that you have a greater chance of landing that role, or similar, in future.<\/p>\n
Yeung\u2019s key takeaway is to \u201clisten and listen!\u201d. Take note of the feedback, reflect on it, and use it to ace your next application. The way you handle this feedback is also a reflection of your character. Handle it gracefully and professionally, and you won\u2019t be burning any bridges \u2013 it may just be that they even consider you for a future role!<\/p>\n
Being rejected from a job isn\u2019t fun, but consider it a learning experience. Gather your feedback, take it on board and you will be one step closer to landing your dream role.<\/p>\n
If you’re looking for a tech or digital role, check out our\u00a0job search\u00a0<\/a>for hundreds of opportunities.<\/p>\n