Why being declined for a job can be a good thing.

A few weeks ago, as we prepared for a new search, I reached out to a candidate we had placed in a previous role for recommendations. Given the location and scope of the position, I was confident she could suggest some promising leads.

She recommended someone she had encountered in a past recruitment process, explaining why the panel had found that individual impressive, even though they ultimately chose another candidate.

We contacted that person, gauged her interest, and evaluated her fit for our client. A few weeks later, she was hired.

So, what’s the takeaway?

When you enter a recruitment process, you’re eager to explore the role and determine if you are the right fit for the organisation. You envision yourself in the position, prepare thoroughly, and engage in discussions, feeling ready for the challenge. However, not every candidate is the perfect match. Even constructive feedback can be hard to hear after a decline.

But there’s a silver lining: you’ve put yourself out there and showcased your capabilities! Even if you weren’t the right fit for that specific role, your expertise and passion leave an impression.

While rejection may sting, it’s essential to remember that being declined for a job is about fit, not personal value. Staying positive and engaged will open doors to future opportunities.