You worked for your current company for more than five years. You’ve been a loyal employee with a track record of putting in more hours than what is required. You met every target, all deadlines and even contributed to increasing overall company profit. But, you did not get that promotion… The first normal reaction that most of us will have is anger and frustration. I mean, you did not work yourself to pieces for nothing. Breath… 1. Don’t take it personally I know it’s easier said than done. Face it, we are just human and most of us will crucify ourselves. So many people let rejection define them for the rest of their professional careers. Don’t fall in that trap. 2. See this experience as a learning curve There is something to learn out of every situation. Ask yourself if you really wanted this specific job and if it isn’t time to explore other positions while focusing on different strong points that you might bring to the table. 3. Ask questions Try and find out why you weren’t a suitable candidate this time round. Maybe you didn’t have some of the points that was required for this particular position but you have other strong skills that can be best applied in other positions. And again, learn from and utilise this information to benefit yourself. 4. Cold feet? Don’t be afraid to apply for other positions. Be positive. Even if you get turned down again and again, see this journey as one step closer to successfully filling that dream position. Remember, rejection builds character, and it’s up to you on how you will react to it and what steps you have to take to ensure that you will get noticed in future.

This article was written en published by Liesel Cloete.
The Award-Winning CV Writer Behind SA CV Writing Studio
With an extensive HR/Payroll background, I transitioned from the corporate world and founded SA CV Writing in 2014 to empower professionals in their career journeys. My clients report back on securing interviews with local and international firms.