Skip to main content

For many job seekers, knowing how to progress in a job search without employer feedback can be frustrating. Interviewing takes practice, and like any skill, how can one improve without constructive criticism? In addition to possessing the knowledge and experience needed to help an employer’s business succeed, the quickest way for job seekers to become employees is to make a great impression in the application and interview process. For those to whom this doesn’t come naturally, or who are up against the stiff competition, feedback may be required in order to land their desired role.

The simple solution to job seekers’ feedback requirement is to just ask for it. After all, employers should respect an applicant who seeks criticism and takes steps toward self-improvement, right? But there are reasons why hiring managers rarely provide feedback to candidates, as well as best practices for obtaining it. Let’s look at a few of each.

Why Are Some Employers Reluctant to Provide Feedback?

First, it’s important to understand why employers may be hesitant to provide feedback to candidates who aren’t hired. One reason involves legal liability. Regardless of why an employer rejects one candidate in favor of another, if the candidate who isn’t hired simply perceives the reason to be unjust and files a discrimination lawsuit, it could result in thousands of dollars in legal fees, months in court fighting the charges, and irreparable damage to the employer brand just to prove innocence. Often, it’s easier to avoid the risk by keeping hiring rationales confidential.

A second reason is the time commitment. An employer may be looking to fill several positions in the company. Depending on the nature of the positions, each may receive dozens, if not hundreds of applications. Providing unsuccessful applicants with feedback on why they were disqualified could add weeks or months to the recruiting process. Even hiring managers with the best intentions can only help candidates if their schedule and workload allow.

How to Ask for Feedback

When requesting feedback from an employer, timing is important. Job seekers should make a point of following up within one day (two days at the most) to reaffirm interest and ensure their application or interview is still fresh in the hiring manager’s mind. Candidates should also respond using the same method of communication that they received the rejection (phone or email).

When posing the initial question to an employer, job seekers should never ask why they weren’t hired. Instead, they should explain that they are looking to improve in their job search, and are seeking constructive criticism. They should then ask if the hiring manager can pinpoint any areas in the application or interview process where they were lacking and if the manager has any recommendations on how to better showcase their skills and experience when applying to future roles.

Ending on a Positive Note

If job seekers speak to or receive an email response from an employer who is willing to provide feedback on their application or interview, they should always keep an open mind and respond positively. Candidates should remember that employers are under no obligation to tell them why they weren’t hired. Managers who offer suggestions on how applicants can improve truly have their best interest at heart.

Under no circumstances should job seekers act defensively or argue with a hiring manager’s feedback. This won’t change the outcome of the hiring decision and could make the manager regret trying to help the candidate in his or her job search. Also, there’s always a chance that the applicant who was hired for the position won’t work out, and the employer will need to choose a second- or third-choice candidate as a replacement. Or, the company may be looking to fill a similar role in the near future. By reacting positively to the hiring manager’s feedback and showing appreciation for his or her time, candidates leave the door open to consideration for future opportunities with the company.

If a job applicant lacks the qualifications and experience a position requires to be successful, no amount of employer feedback regarding interview preparation or self-promotion will change the hiring outcome. However, for candidates who just need a bit of guidance on interview etiquette or how to market themselves for a particular role, a few helpful tips on where they’re lacking could be all that separates a job search that lasts several more months from one that ends shortly after their next application. Though they should be prepared to politely accept “no” for an answer, job seekers shouldn’t be afraid to ask employers for feedback after a rejection and show they are always willing to accept criticism, continue to learn, and better themselves.

Share this post:

Source

CHASCA

Just left us a 5 star review

google

Charm has been an excellent collaborator, going above and beyond to help me find a suitable role. He has been supportive in addressing any concerns I have had, working diligently to find solutions that are beneficial for me. Thankyou for your efforts!

google

Excellent quality service

google

My line manager is Charm and he couldn't have been more patient, supportive, proactive, and professional. Been with many agencies, it's hard to find a place where you get treated with respect. Very glad I joined.

google

Principal Education is the best agency I have worked and working with since I arrive in the UK. One of their staff named Charm is a wonderful person, he's a good listener and find solution to every problem or challenge you face at work. He's the most patient and understanding person I have met. He never goes angry, instead he provide solution and ensures you get the best of your request. Most importantly you get paid at the right time.

google

Jai Bance was fantastic, got me an interview for a job I really wanted very quickly and was super supportive throughout the process, complete angel :)

google

Jai has been of excellent help! he was quick, attentive and adamant in successfully finding and pairing me with the current role and sector that I am working at! I could have not felt anymore supported from the team at Principal Education!

google

This is probably the best agency I have joined , and I have joined a few. The pay, staff and work environment are all so professional and welcoming. They always have a new opportunity ready for you. I really recommended them!!!

google

Principal education has been reliable ever since I started working with the company. I have been constantly in work, my pay rate has been substantial, not to mention the service overall, has been professional. Jai Bance, who is one of the agents that ensured I get suitable locations that will get me to work on time, moreover, the work that he has placed me in has helped to enhance my skills in my profession.

google

Great work from Charm Dube! Super helpful and polite.

google

Jade was amazing! Helped me get through a long process and was always happy to help with positive energy as well as finding solutions.

google

Good agency, Charm was brill.

google

I can’t thanks Charm enough for finding me an amazing job !!!! Recommend 100% Thank you sooo much

google

Happy with the service I’ve received from a professional and approachable team. Found work quickly, with an excellent rate of pay. Feel looked after. Glad I registered with this agency!!

google

Principal Recruitment is one of the best supply agency that I have worked and still working with at present, they are very effective with their dealings. Jai has been so good to me since I joined the company by giving me a listen ear. His communication skill is top notch to the extent that I have also referred people to him.

google

Excellent, Charm was a very helpful and organised person I really enjoy working with him. He is very responsible and respectful. I hope he will be very successful in his job.

google

It’s been amazing working with this agency. They’re all very professional and helpful especially Charm and Jai.

google

Principal Education is a great organisation . I really enjoyed working with them. A dedicated, professional and amazing team. I have no doubt to strongly recommend it to everyone.

google

Charm is a good recruiter, awesome company to work through, assigned to some good schools as well; a streamlined service.

google

Charm has been proactive in searching for a suitable teaching role, consulting me to review my specific requirements and being available for calls and flexible with times.

google

Charm has been very helpful and attentive. He has worked hard to find the right job role to match my experience and skills.

google

I have been working with Charm for the past month and he has been excellent at finding opportunities that are tailored to exactly my skill set and preferences. He keeps in constant contact to update me with how things are progressing, feedback and has been successful in finding me the right school for me. Very dedicated and driven to find the exact work for you, I would highly recommend this agency and Charm in particular.

google

The service I received from someone named Connor at the agency has been unbelievably incredible. He kept me updated on all the details, kept regular contact, made sure everything was transparent and made my needs a priority. Connor ensured I received the best possible rate and confirmed all the details so I felt secure once we had discussed this. I am registered with a few agencies (which haven't been so great) but I no longer need the others because I have been treated so well and got the job I wanted straight away. Very pleased with Principal :)

google

I have had plenty of work through Principal Recruitment. Charm is brilliant and has found me suitable assignments and is always reachable should I have any questions. Right now I’m doing an assignment at a lovely, local secondary school and I really look forward to going to work there. Thank you Charm. I can wholeheartedly recommend Principal Recruitment.

google

Charm has been really helpful, he helped me find a school that works for me, that I’m comfortable with. Communicates well, I appreciate how he’s helped me.

google

Really helpful and friendly. Supportive with finding work opportunities. Thank you Charm!

google

The app is very useful to see the job role & location, very good pay rates. Consultants very helpful and supportive!

google

The agency has been really good. Charm has been helpful very supportive.

google

Signed up for this agency and since then, their communication has been amazing and take into considerations my work needs as well! Recommend working here for others as well:)! Charm has been amazing helping me as well so kudos!

google

As a new member of staff joining the staff team at Principle has been a quick and easy process and understanding in the needs required for suitable work

google

Wonderful staff both in Essex and London. Charm from the North London office is always informative, patient, focused and understanding. No false promises, completes the work and goes the extra mile. Nadine Somers-Music Teacher

google

Good communication by Jai. Anyone can trust to enter into schools and work .

google

With Principal I am working locally and I am happy with them as they always have managed my timesheets according to my availabilities and so on. I am really happy and Love working with this company, staff are great and so supportive. They make sure that you are comfortable with where you are working and that you are okay to travel.

google

Updated*2023 Aired my issues and concerns and they more then made up for it. My complaint was handled well.

google

Been a behaviour mentor for 4 years and I've been unlucky enough to have only worked with jai bance for the past 3 months. In those 3 months he's managed to get me my current highest paying roll as a temp & secured me a contract within my first school working with principle. In general I'm not a big fan of recruitment agencies as they often only view candidates as a pound note but these guys know the roles (in detail so your not walking blind) support you through the many challenges you will face as a temporary worker but most importantly the pays fair and its always payed on time. Cheers for all the help principle.

google

Amazing helped to get the job I want in instant And was helpful throughout

google

Principal solution has been brilliant. Great work ethics lovely caring staff especially Jai, he has been patient, supportive and professional. I was delighted with the level of personal attention I received. I have been very pleased with the agency and would definitely recommend them to anyone considering them.

google

The agency onboarding process to being offered a suitable assignment was seamless and fast. I would recommend Principal agency to others seeking work. It has been a pleasure liaising with Jai, Head of Sales

google

Principal Education brings with it a huge amount of experience from its Team and a commitment to making Supply Teaching Placements easier to manage with higher rates of pay! Sign Up now!!

google

Fantastic. Highly recommend

google

Simple and efficient, got started with Principal recently and already got well paying work within days. Hoping the agency continues to deliver and remain hassle free.

google

I had my first agency job and within minutes of arriving I felt very well looked after as it was my first time at this school. I thoroughly enjoyed working alongside the agency.