How to Recover From a “No” After an Interview

We’ve all been there; receiving a “no” never gets easier. You pour your heart and soul into an application and interview, but then you hear back they’ve “gone in a different direction.” Hopefully this post will help you learn how to turn a disappointing answer into an opportunity for growth.

1. Don’t take it personally

After receiving a no from a job interview, it’s easy to take it personally— you are bound to think it is something you said, the way you dressed, or a million other things. However, it is important to avoid dwelling on these thoughts. During an interview process, employers have just as hard of a job as interviewees. There are countless students applying for a limited number of positions, meaning the company cannot hire everyone. They must undergo the task of weeding out interviewers that do not fit their needs. There are many different reasons why an employer might choose to go another direction— reasons that are completely out of your knowledge and control.

2. Ask for feedback

A beneficial way to make the best of a “no” from an interview is by asking for feedback. There is nothing wrong with asking the interviewer for insight on his decision to not choose you. Specific questions to ask include inquiring whether there was something he was looking for in a candidate that you did not possess or communicate, or an experience he wanted that you have not had. The act of maturely reaching out to the interviewer in order to seek self-improvement may even keep you on the employer’s radar if they ever need a future position filled. However, it is of utmost importance to keep your conversation professional and friendly when you come about this.  An example of how of an email template asking for feedback could be:

“Dear Mr. or Ms. Doe, 

Thank you so much for the opportunity to apply and interview for this position. I enjoyed learning more about your company as well as the role of this position in your company. I would love to know if you have any personal feedback on my interview that I can take into account for future opportunities such as this one. Thank you again for your time and consideration; I look forward to hearing from you.”

3. Get more practice

Practice makes perfect… at least that is what everyone says. Practice may not make you the perfect candidate for every position, but it will surely improve your interview skills. Consider the fact that every interview for a position, whether successful or not, is a great opportunity to improve your interview skills and therefore learn from each experience. 

A great place to practice your interview skills is the Auburn University Career Center, where you can participate in mock interviews. This is a great place to receive honest and constructive feedback on your interview skills, so that you can improve before your next interview.

4. Don’t give up

Most importantly, do not let this “no” discourage you. Take it as an experience to learn and improve, and then continue your internship or job search at full force. Don’t let this setback dissuade you. Instead, ask for constructive feedback, practice mock interviews with others, and get back at it— your “yes” might be just around the corner!