You prepared for a job interview, and surprisingly, it went well. Yet the employer decided to move on with another candidate. And now it is heartbreaking to know that you are rejected from your dream job. Have you ever been in this situation?
It can be hard to pass through the rejection phase during your job search process. But a good rule for moving forward is taking it positively and asking for feedback from your hiring manager. Some employers directly share feedback along with the job rejection mail or call.
However, if your employers don’t give you feedback, you can request them to share their opinion.
In this guide, we’ll share some essential strategies on how to ask for feedback after job rejection.
Is It Okay To Ask An Interviewer For Feedback?
Yes, it is entirely okay to ask for feedback after job rejection. However, you should follow a proper strategy to request feedback and make sure you don’t sound bitter.
For example, you might say, “I appreciate your time, and I would like to know if there are any areas in which I could improve.” By being polite and direct, you are more likely to get the information you need.
Besides, not everyone will respond to your request. Some employers might be busy, so they’ll ignore your request, while others will not give honest feedback. That said, you should know the right time and method to request feedback to get a helpful response.
When and How to Ask for Feedback After a Job Rejection
If you want genuine feedback from your interviewer, you need to make a polite and professional request. Don’t randomly shoot an email to the employer with feedback requests, as this might negatively impact his mind.
Instead, follow the tips below to learn the best way to respond to a rejection email to get constructive feedback from your recruiter:
Let’s Start With When to Ask…
Typically hiring managers send rejection emails or call job seekers to inform them that they are not hired.
If you receive an email from the company, the best time for requesting feedback is within 24 to 48 hours after receiving the job rejection email. If the company informs you about the rejection on call, ask them for feedback immediately.
Alternatively, if your manager called you and you couldn’t answer the phone call, but you got to know about the rejection via voicemail, contact them immediately after receiving the voicemail rejection. Remember to call within business hours.
Unless you know your recruiter, you can avoid visiting the office for in-person feedback requests after a job rejection.
How to Ask for Feedback After a Job Rejection (by Phone or Email)
You can ask for feedback after job rejection via call or email, depending on the medium through which you received the bad news. Regardless of the method you choose, ensure that you remain patient and professional throughout the conversation. Here is how you can ask for feedback via phone or email:
Via Phone:
If you are asking for feedback via phone, call within business hours and ask the recruiter if they have time to talk. You can then apply the following tips to request feedback:
- Thank your hiring manager for taking out the time to inform you about the hiring decision.
- Tell the employer that you are constantly working to improve your job search skills and career.
- Ask the hiring managers the interview skills you lack or specific points of improvement required during the interview process.
- Ask the recruiter to share some tips to overcome your weak points in future interviews.
- Don’t ask too many questions at once. Give the potential employer time to think and respond.
- Conclude the call with a positive comment and thank the interviewer for giving feedback.
Here are a few sample scripts you can use to get interview feedback after job rejection:
- Thank you for informing me about your decision. I understand I was not the right fit for the job. But I would appreciate it if you could share feedback to let me know the areas where I can improve to land better job opportunities in the future.
- I appreciate your quick response. Do you have some time to share feedback on my interview performance so that I can work on improving my skills before appearing for future interviews?
- I am thankful that you took the time to inform me of your decision. I accept your response, but I wanted to ask for feedback since this will help me analyze my mistakes and take a step ahead in my self-improvement journey. Any remarks would be greatly appreciated.
Via Email:
If you want to ask for feedback via email, you’ll have to structure your email professionally.
Here is how to do that:
- Begin the first paragraph by appreciating the employer’s decision.
- In the second paragraph, express your disappointment in not getting your dream job offer. Keep the tone positive and professional.
- Ask for feedback in the following paragraph.
- Finally, conclude the email by thanking the hiring manager and showing interest in being considered for future opportunities.
Below is a sample script you can follow while asking for feedback after a job rejection:
Dear [hiring manager name],
Thank you for sharing your decision with me.
Though I am disappointed to hear the bad news, I enjoyed the opportunity to discuss the prospective job details with you.
If you have some time, I would be grateful to know your opinion on how to improve my interview skills and become a better candidate for future roles.
Thank you for your time and this opportunity.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
How Do You Ask For Feedback Just After An Interview?
Asking for feedback right after the interview can make you sound desperate and rude. Hence, you should wait until the employers share their hiring decisions.
Nevertheless, if you still want feedback after a job interview, you can ask your interviewer indirectly about your performance. Also, ask the recruiters if they have suggestions for improving your cover letter, resume, and skillset.
What Not To Say Or Do After A Job Rejection?
Job rejection can be tough to handle. But you should accept the decision positively and respect the manager’s decision. You should also choose your words carefully since the employer shouldn’t think you are entering into an argument with him while asking for feedback.
Let the recruiter know that useful feedback can be helpful for your next interview.
Below are some essential tips to follow after a rejection to leave a positive impression on your manager:
1. Don’t sound bitter or upset at the start of the call (or email)
It is evident to be disappointed with the news of rejection. But your interviewer should know that. When you call for the interview feedback, don’t sound upset or bitter. Instead, be calm, polite, and professional.
Remember you are making this call only to gather information about your weak points and the recruiter’s opinion. Focus on that only and respect any remarks you get.
2. Don’t try to change their mind
Interviewers take a lot of time to share their decision after the interview process. So, don’t force the recruiters to rethink their decision or question their interviewing skills. They must have thought in all directions before jumping onto the final decision.
3. Don’t act desperate or beg
Regardless of the situation, never beg in front of the interviewer. It will ruin all your future chances of getting hired (for a new position) and the current position.
Besides, you won’t be able to network with the current manager or get recommended for other job openings. So, make sure to end the interview on good terms.
4. Don’t “push back” on the feedback they give you
When your employer provides feedback, you may find some points genuine while others are not. But you shouldn’t make counter-arguments. Instead, accept and appreciate the employer’s opinion.
Also, if a company denies providing feedback due to company policies, respect the laws and don’t force them.
5. Leave the Door Open
The employer’s decision might leave you frustrated, but that doesn’t give you the right to misbehave with the interviewer. So, end the call on a positive note and request the employer to consider you for any future openings at the company.
Remember to Stay Positive and Use the Feedback To Improve
Not all companies will understand your concern and provide genuine feedback. But you should stay positive and continue improving your skills to become a great candidate. Also, apply the suggestions you receive from the interviewer to land your perfect job faster.