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Have you ever applied for a job but weren’t hired? Few people could answer “no” to this question. In fact, our unsuccessful job applications shape our careers just as much as our successes do, as anyone who has ever experienced a job rejection would have a different work history leading up to their present role had the outcome of their initial application been different.

The job market is more volatile than it has been in years, and spiking unemployment rates fueled by a global pandemic have turned the candidate’s market of the past few years into an employer’s market. As businesses slowly begin to reopen, some industries are seeing candidates apply to jobs in record numbers, and since most of these positions will be filled by only one candidate, all other applicants will be rejected.

The fact that most job seekers will apply to several open positions before landing an offer shouldn’t discourage them. Though job rejections are never easy, they are a necessary part of the job search process and can become opportunities for learning, growth, and long-term career success. Let’s look at a few ways candidates can use a job rejection to their advantage.

Ask for Feedback

The best way to improve at anything is to request constructive criticism and advice for improvement from those who are more knowledgeable, and for job seekers, feedback from employers after a rejection can be invaluable. By contacting a hiring manager shortly after receiving a rejection, candidates can glean valuable information on how to improve their interviewing and self-promotion skills, as well as where their experience and qualifications may fall short for their desired role. In addition, they demonstrate their willingness to seek out criticism in order to learn and better themselves, while reiterating their interest in future roles with the company. Though some employers may be reluctant to share feedback due to legal liability, a follow-up feedback request provides candidates one last opportunity to make a positive impression.

Research Successful Employees

After a job seeker’s application for employment is declined, he or she should make an effort to find out who was selected. Though it may take some time, the person who was hired will likely update his or her LinkedIn profile to reflect the new role, enabling them to be found in a subsequent search by title and employer. Also, there may be other employees at the company with the same title, or at other companies with similar titles and job duties. Candidates should study their profiles and identify what knowledge, skills, and experience these employees possess that they lack. They may also choose to connect with these individuals in order to learn from them, network with them, and convey interest in locating and applying to similar roles.

Develop a Plan

Once job seekers are able to identify the qualifications and experience that have made others successful in their desired role, they can formulate a plan. What steps should be taken in order to accomplish the same, and what is the timeline for each? This may be easier said than done. If those who are successful have an advanced degree, certification, or a specific number of years’ experience, the goal becomes clear. However, if those in similar roles were hired based on culture fit, an employee referral, or some other intangible quality, setting a goal becomes more difficult. Regardless, there is always something job seekers can do to better themselves in order to improve their knowledge and skills and gain an advantage over their competitors. It’s up to them to find out what that is, then act on it.

Refocus Your Efforts

One of the opportunities a job rejection provides is the chance to reassess goals and refocus efforts. As mentioned earlier, the reason for rejection may be due to a lack of qualifications or experience, or the reason may be beyond the candidate’s control and it will take several applications and interviews to land a role that is a good fit. However, if a pattern of rejection persists, there may be a disconnect between the candidate’s abilities and his or her goals. Unfortunately, not every goal is accomplishable by everyone, and after multiple rejections, a reassessment may be needed to determine if the candidate’s career aspirations align with his or her strengths and skill set. Job seekers shouldn’t be afraid to ask for advice from a manager, mentor, or career counselor in order to ensure their career goals are realistic and achievable.

A job search can be a long and difficult process, and the outcome often depends upon trial, error, and persistence. Frustration is only natural, particularly in a tough job market, and job seekers often receive advice from well-meaning friends and associates to stay positive and not give up. But persistence only pays off if goals are in alignment with abilities and there’s an actionable plan to achieve them. Employers look to hire employees who seek feedback and take direction in order to improve. Similarly, job seekers should consider rejections as learning opportunities, allowing them to refocus their goals and fine-tune their search. By turning the negative into a positive, candidates can increase their chances of landing an offer, as well as their opportunity for future job satisfaction and success.

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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!

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Excellent quality service

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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.

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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.

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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 :)

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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!

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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!!!

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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.

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Great work from Charm Dube! Super helpful and polite.

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

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Good agency, Charm was brill.

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

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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!!

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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.

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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.

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

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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.

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

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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.

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

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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.

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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 :)

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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.

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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.

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

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

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

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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!

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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

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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

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

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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.

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

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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.

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

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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.

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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

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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!!

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Fantastic. Highly recommend

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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.

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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.