To know how to reply to job rejection ….Read on this article….!
You did your best through the various stages of assessments and even had great rapport and connection with the hiring manager during the evaluation process. You checked all the boxes of the ideal candidate for the job, yet you are at the receiving end of the dreadful job rejection email, and your stomach is in a knot. Now what?
A job rejection could come with mixed feelings considering the time, effort, and preparation that ensures success at all the daunting stages of the assessment process.
Indeed, to reply a job rejection email requires emotional intelligence and the right approach. How you respond might be a game-changer for you, as it might come with great benefits for your career.
Why is a Reply to a Job Rejection Email Important?
Apart from the fact that responding to any email shows common courtesy and professionalism, here are reasons why a response email is essential:
- It accentuates your good values and emotional intelligence. It also leaves a good impression in the hiring manager’s mind, thus giving you an edge over the candidates who may not respond.
- The successful candidate may not accept the job offer due to receiving a more suitable one. Hence, you might be strongly considered because of your interest in replying to the email.
- The hiring manager may recommend you to other employers seeking candidates to fill current job openings.
What to Say in a Job Rejection Response Email
Notwithstanding how distraught you might feel at the time, your response needs to have a positive ring to it. It should also be concise and free of grammatical errors.
Essential Components and Tips on How to Respond:
Proper salutation
If the job rejection email was sent to you by the hiring manager, and you know the individual’s name, it is essential to address the person directly. This makes the email more personal and less generic. If not, address your response email to whom it may concern (the individual corresponding with you).
Show appreciation
Your first paragraph should express appreciation to the hiring manager(s) for granting you an opportunity to be considered for the job and for also putting in the time to get to know you. The recruitment process takes time and effort; thus, saying thank you shows how thoughtful you are.
If applicable, express interest in keeping the door open
While subtly stating your disappointment in not getting the job offer, talk about your strong interest in associating with the organization and being considered for any opening that matches your skills in the future.
Remember to keep your tone optimistic!
Respond on time
It is essential not to take too long to respond to the email if you want to be considered for future opportunities.
Job Rejection Email Response Samples to Follow
Sample one
Dear (Mr./Ms. Last Name)/Hiring Manager,
Thank you for updating me about the recruitment decision. While it was not the response I was hoping for, I was looking forward to joining the team at (organization); it was great to meet you and learn more about (organization).
I am still very interested in keeping up with (organization name) and any future opportunities that may arise. I will also keep an eye out for the fantastic (project you discussed during the interview).
Thank you again for the opportunity. I wish you and the team at (organization) all the best moving forward.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email]
[Your Contact Number]
Sample two
Dear (Mr./Ms. Last Name)/Hiring Manager,
Thank you for taking the time to inform me of this decision. I appreciate the opportunity to interview with your team for the (position you applied for) at (organization) and the opportunity to learn about your innovative organizational culture and goals.
Although I must admit that I am saddened by the email, I am appreciative of the opportunity to have met outstanding professionals such as yourself and (another hiring manager, department head, or recruitment panelist).
I am optimistic that you will keep me informed about future opportunities at (organization) that match my profile; I will also continue to check your career page for updates.
Thank you again for your time, and best of luck to you and the (organization] team.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email]
[Your Contact Number]
You Can Go a Step Further to Seal the Relationship by Connecting on LinkedIn!
The possibilities of our digital world are endless. Extend a connection on LinkedIn with a well-crafted message to the hiring manager or department head. The message should be brief and straight to the point, touching on how you enjoyed meeting them and would love to stay in touch.
This keeps you top of mind and opens you up to building excellent connections and professional relationships. It also makes you easily accessible should an opportunity arise for a similar position.
Conclusion
Responding to a job rejection email and knowing the right way to go about it is a powerful skill to possess during your job quest.See it as an opportunity to leave a good impression and to show your sustained interest in the organization while keeping your communication lines open to them.Crafting the correct response email will increase your chances of being considered when a similar or even better opportunity arises.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I ask for a second chance to interview after getting a rejection email?
Although there is no assurance of this yielding the expected outcome, it can be a clever idea to include a request for a second chance for an interview in the thank you email. This can be more effective after a not-so-great interview and not necessarily when you get a rejection email.
Can I respond to a job rejection email without an interview?
A concise ‘thank you email’ response to a job rejection email without making it to the interview stage reflects your professionalism and great attitude despite the situation.
