You're helping a client navigate job search setbacks. How can you empower them to overcome rejection?
Ever faced job hurdles? Share your strategies for turning rejections into stepping stones.
You're helping a client navigate job search setbacks. How can you empower them to overcome rejection?
Ever faced job hurdles? Share your strategies for turning rejections into stepping stones.
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"Rejection, unfortunately, is part of any job search. The most common form is often being 'ghosted,' but I encourage candidates not to take it personally. Instead, view each rejection as a valuable learning opportunity and an opportunity to expand one's network. Brush it off, move forward, and stay open to the potential for other, often better—opportunities. Remember, rejection is simply redirection."
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Rejection is a natural part of the job search process, but it can also be a powerful catalyst for growth. As a career consultant and leadership coach, I always remind clients that every setback is an opportunity to refine their approach and strengthen resilience. Rejections offer valuable feedback that can be used to sharpen skills and strategies. I encourage clients to stay focused on their long-term goals, embrace learning, and keep pushing forward. By reframing rejection as a stepping stone to success, we can empower ourselves to keep moving toward the right opportunities. What strategies have worked for you?
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Realise that job searching is a process, not an event... It takes time, patience and there will be many No's before that Yes arrives... But all you need is just ONE Yes and you've succeeded! So Hang in there and press on!
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I always let my clients understanding that rejection is the best gift. It helps with character development in 2 ways. I've had clients that received a rejection but showed me how much they did align with the role and I gave them outreach strategies to rebuttal that decline letter and guess what? Some were hired and others just got on the radar within that division/department. Other clients I've showed them that sometimes life will give you a no, to protect you from what's not meant for your life at that moment. Both instances are character development season. Both have the undertone of "what's meant for me is FOR ME"...
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Acknowledge the difficulty of rejection and help your client see it as a growth opportunity. Encourage them to reflect on each experience, focusing on feedback and areas for improvement. Reinforce their strengths, set realistic goals, and celebrate small wins. Guide them to reframe setbacks as steps closer to the right opportunity. Remind them that resilience and persistence are key qualities that will pay off in the long run.
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