Coping with rejection: how to ask for feedback from your graduate job applications

The point of asking for feedback after an interview or assessment centre for a graduate job is that it could help you succeed next time. It can be a nerve-racking experience calling an employer after you’ve been rejected, but it’s definitely worthwhile – you have nothing to lose, but much to gain.

It’s best to contact a member of the graduate recruitment team, if possible, rather than one of the individual interviewers or assessors, though you may still end up speaking directly to your interviewer. Don’t expect too much – it may not be possible for the recruiter to go into great detail or provide an in-depth analysis of your strengths and weaknesses, especially if they have dealt with significant numbers of candidates. Keep the conversation brief and polite, and don’t be tempted to argue if you disagree with any of the comments.

'The other candidates had more relevant experience'

If you are told that other candidates had more relevant experience, try to find out what specific work or activities they had undertaken that impressed the recruiter. Aim to get some insight into the steps you need to take to strengthen your position.

If the feedback is mostly positive and you’re still interested in the company, let them know and ask them to keep you in mind if any suitable opportunities come up. Remember to thank the person who provides your feedback, and make notes on your discussion before moving on with your job search. Most importantly of all, try not to be frustrated, upset or irritated by any feedback – focus your energy on what’s next, rather than what’s past.

• Find out more about getting feedback from graduate recruiters
• Coping with rejection
• How to handle job offers
   

Posted by Alison_TARGETjobs on 29 June 2010

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