3 Quick Tips to Turn a Rejection into an Offer

No one wants to receive a rejection, especially when they've spent precious time and energy going through the process of applying, interviewing and then waiting on pins and needles to hear the final results of the job search. However, rejections do happen, but what doesn't have to happen is a lost opportunity to turn a rejection into a possible offer. Consider these three ways to turn your rejection into an offer.

Make One Last Pitch

So, you didn't get the job. You received a rejection from the employer or recruiter. Take this time to show the company what a good sport you are and how valuable you'd be as a team player by writing a thank you note that not only shows your gratitude at being given a chance and your professionalism but lets you remind the employer why you'd be a great fit. Writing this note gives you the opportunity to point out how your skills and abilities can meet a need the company may still want to fill.

Ask Point Blank What Happened

Regardless of whether you can turn a rejection into an offer, it never hurts to talk to the employer or recruiter and find out what happened. Why didn't you get the job? Don't ask that specifically, but try to see if you were missing key skills or if your background didn't give you enough experience. It could be that you didn't get a chance to highlight certain skills or specialties the company was looking for. Discussing what was missing gives the hiring manager another chance to look over your resume and talk to you about what the company needs in its next employee.

Keep Those Bridges

Regardless of how disappointed you feel or how you think your skills and abilities still match exactly what the company needs, the answer may still be no, and it may feel like getting a rejection all over again. That doesn't mean you have to show your frustration or anger. This is a bridge you want to keep. Maybe the company will have another position open up in the future that's more suitable for your special talents. Maybe this is a chance to add someone new to your professional network. Someone you can connect with at industry events and who can introduce you to others in the field. This connection might open the door to more opportunities, but it won't happen if you're perceived as a bitter person who can't conduct herself professionally.

You might be able to turn a rejection into an offer if you take the time to write a thank you note that puts the employer's eye back on you, ask for feedback about the job search, and nurture a professional relationship with the hiring manager. It never hurts to give it another chance, especially if you really want the job.

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