I applied for a very select program once with very high recommendations and qualifications. Selection process took 6 months. Tired of answering the have you heard anything on the daily; I started to hide out in my office doing a job that I had been asked to fill. While isolated and focused on this job I discovered I loved it and was really good at it. The day the results came out I was actually happy. I had already planned out my path to getting a masters in the job I was already doing. So happy I was rejected. I would have accepted if offered. And I would have missed out on the better career, work-life balance and fit for me. The rejection felt like divine intervention - I think about this experience when new rejections occur.

Rejection after a strong interview can be disheartening, but it's an opportunity for growth. First, reflect objectively on what happened and seek constructive feedback from the employer. Use this insight to fine-tune your skills. Reframe rejection as a learning experience, not a setback, and remind yourself of your accomplishments. Stay proactive by applying for more roles and leveraging your network for opportunities. Keep building your expertise through relevant courses or projects to demonstrate ongoing growth. Lastly, maintain resilience and self-belief—your dream role might be closer than you think, and this experience makes you stronger and better prepared for it.

Rejection, especially after a successful interview, can sting, but it's important to maintain perspective. In addition to reflecting on feedback and enhancing your skills, consider using rejection as a tool for self-assessment. Take time to evaluate your overall fit for the role—was there something about the company culture or job responsibilities that didn’t align with your long-term goals? Also, leverage this time for personal branding—update your LinkedIn, write thoughtful articles, or share insights relevant to your industry. Every experience can bring you closer to your dream role, so keep learning and growing.

In these cases, my intution as Recruiter and HR Assistant kicks in. Nothing in life is "luck"or "coincidence". If you aced the interview and were not selected, it is because you just dodged a bullet! Greater things are in store for you and you are being led down the right path for you. From the million times I've been turned down from a job all I can say is that I'm thankful it happened because it paved the way for greater opportunities for me, opportunities which better aligned with my goals, dreams and values.

Rejection after an interview can be hard! Do your best to reflect on the process and if possible, ask for feedback or suggestions from the interviewer. Moving forward is important; update your strategy, continue to apply and network. Be sure to continue to optimize your resume and tailor it to the positions you are applying for. If there is any additional education you can do, take this time to do that. As difficult as rejection can be, you will also need to alter your thinking, meaning, because this opportunity was a "no" then your "yes" is still waiting for you!

Getting rejected from a job you really wanted is undeniably tough, but with a growth mindset and persistence, it often leads to a better fit and more satisfying opportunities down the road.

Rejection can be a powerful teacher, you always learn from your rejections. Each setback is an opportunity to refine your goals, sharpen your skills, and approach the next opportunity with renewed strength. Life is a continuous journey of growth, and every "no" is simply a step closer to the right "yes." Keep pushing forward, trust in your abilities, and embrace every experience as a stepping stone toward your dream role. Keep pushing forward, and success will follow.