You’ve sailed through a phone interview, an additional face-to-face and are already planning your first week of work. Unfortunately, the next day you receive the dreaded, “Thank you for meeting with us. We’ve decided, however, to go in another direction.” Don’t despair. Part of the job search process is rejection. Here’s what to do if you didn’t get your accounting or finance dream job.
Process
Regardless of whether you’re feeling disheartened or angry, it’s important to process the emotions. Give yourself 48 hours to let go and get focused. Then channel your inner Michonne or Tony Stark to restore some mojo, and make a plan to move forward.
Build the Relationship
No one has a crystal ball, but one thing’s for certain – that organization will hire again in the future. Reach out via email, thanking the hiring manager for considering you. Reiterate your interest in working for the organization. Ask the hiring manager if they would be willing to tell you what you did well during the interview and where you could improve. For example, “If there’s anything I can do to improve my chances in the future I would value your thoughts.” This feedback can be used to better position yourself in your next interview.
Deconstruct the Feedback
Part of making a plan is to deconstruct the feedback from the interview process. Is there a skill you need to polish or acquire? Do you need to create stronger success stories that clearly communicate your value? There’s no point in understanding a career limiting skill set gap, or behavior and not taking action to rectify it.
Watch this video to learn how to peak in the interview process.
Rejected by Your Current Employer?
If you were rejected for an internal role by your current employer, the same advice applies. Ask for feedback. Determine how you can do better the next time. Make a plan to address any shortcomings, but most of all stay professional.
More Than One Basket
Our disappointment can be intensified if we put all of our eggs in one basket. Keep job searching right up until you sign your name on the job offer. Things can fall through at the 11th hour, so it’s best to be prepared.
Analyze the Role
Break down the role. What truly excited you? Was it the opportunity to work in industry you’re passionate about, or with other top performers? Was it an exciting start-up, or a chance to make a difference with a leading non-profit? Similarly, be honest about some of the potential challenges of the role. Maybe the commute was too long, or there was a lack of cultural alignment? Ultimately, if you know what you’re looking for, you’ll spot it more easily the next time.
Connect with a Recruiter
Having a finance or accounting recruiter in your corner can be a huge plus in the job search process. Identify one who specializes in the finance or accounting industry and begin building a relationship. Great recruiters are resources who can offer market insight, career advice and interview tips. Bringing a recruiter on board can expose you to potential opportunities that you would not have had access to otherwise.
Read: “Need Help With Your Job Search? – How to Spot a Good Finance Recruiter” for tips on identifying an accounting or finance recruiter who can connect you to your next opportunity.
Key Takeaways
If you didn’t land the accounting or finance job that you wanted it’s natural to feel frustrated. But it’s important to pick yourself up, dust yourself off and refocus your energy. Make sure to send an email thanking the hiring manager or HR person for their time. Don’t be afraid to ask for feedback and to reiterate your interest in the company. Take action based on the feedback you receive, and make a plan to address any skill set gaps or interview technique challenges. Analyze what you really want in the role so that you’ll know what you’re looking for the next time around. Most importantly, don’t put all of your eggs in one basket. Continue to job search right up until the end. This will ensure that if things don’t go as planned you’re not starting at square one. While it can feel like the end of the world when you don’t get the job you want, ultimately it’s a chance to continue building relationships and planning for your next opportunity.
Your Next Step
No one should walk the job search or hiring road alone. At Clarity Recruitment we help others realize their success through a process that marries proprietary technology with unwavering commitment. Contact us today to take control of your career, or to partner with us to hire well.
Clarity Recruitment, connecting exceptional people with remarkable companies.
