So you didn’t get the job. Here’s what to do next.

It’s always disappointing when you apply for a job, put time and effort into your application, perhaps even attend an interview, only to hear that you weren’t successful. It might be tempting to spend the day moping on the sofa with a pint of ice cream, and while it’s important to take time to process the news, there are also steps you can take to make the most of the situation.

Ask for feedback

It might not feel like it at the time, but try to treat this setback as an opportunity to learn and grow to improve your chances for next time. Ask your interviewer for any feedback they have, then use this information to change your approach for your next application.

This requires some bravery – you’re opening yourself up to hear honest opinions about why you weren’t successful, and they might tell you things that are hard to hear.

Perhaps you needed more experience, or didn’t come across as enthusiastic enough about the position. But just by asking you’re showing maturity and willingness to self-reflect and improve, which will impress the employer. This might not lead to anything, but it’s always best not to burn any bridges. You never know when they’ll be recruiting again.

Don’t take it personally

You might be beating yourself up for not getting the job, worrying that you’re not good enough or that you made a mistake.

But you’re not psychic – you have no idea why you didn’t get the role and it might have nothing to do with you at all. Budgets might have been cut, the manager might be off sick, the company might have lost a big contract. The truth is, you have no idea.

And never react with anger – who knows, their first choice might not work out for some reason and you could be next on the list. But if you send an inappropriate email or rant about the company on social media, you can be sure you’ll never get that call.

Get yourself back out there

It might forever be one of life’s unsolved mysteries why you didn’t get that particular job – but the decision has been made so there’s no point dwelling on it. Instead, direct your energy towards the next set of applications.

Try to figure out what it was that excited you so much about the opportunity, and use that information to find similar jobs to apply for.

So although you didn’t get the news you were hoping for, it’s not all doom and gloom. Try to treat this as a learning opportunity, but don’t obsess about it too much. And remember: every no brings you one step closer to a yes.

And last but not least – don’t forget to register with us.

Once you’ve registered your details on BASE’s Talent Pool, we can connect you all the latest jobs from our outstanding employers.