Dealing with rejection

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Thursday 29 October 2009

Who says rejection is a bad thing? Check out the best ways to get over it.

Top tips

Rejection is part and parcel of life. In fact, you can learn a thing or two to help you bounce back next time. Remember, every rejection only takes you a step closer to that all important ‘yes’! Just make sure you:-

  1. Never take it personally.
  2. Keep yourself distracted afterwards.
  3. Don’t be bitter about it.
  4. Learn from your mistakes.

Job rejection

You wrote a slick CV, you put together the perfect cover letter and you even got an interview! Then you smartened yourself up and went for it – only to find out that in the end you didn’t get the job.

Not to worry. You can learn from it. Review the questions that the interviewer asked you, and then look back at your answers. First impressions mean a lot. Maybe you said something you shouldn’t? Or maybe you didn’t say enough? Interviews are all about selling yourself and sounding confident about what you’re capable of. Here’s how to nail the interview the next time.

Maybe it wasn't the job for you? To get yourself in the right path think about your likes and dislikes. Look through our list of job careers and see which one takes your fancy.

Most people go to loads of interviews before securing a job. It's just a learning process. Hit the Jobcentre, your local newspaper and agencies and start again.

Relationship rejection

Being rejected by someone you like can be a bit embarrassing and hurtful too.

There’s one thing you’ve got to do though. Never take it personally. Don’t dwell on their explanation for rejecting you or try to figure out what you did wrong – this will only make the situation worse. The more you think about it, the more you’ll dig yourself into a rut – a deep one! Instead, take it on the chin and be happy that you tried. At least you don’t have any ‘what ifs’.

If you’re finding it a little bit difficult to forget then keep yourself distracted. Focus on other things like your friends and hobbies and interests. Try not to become bitter either. The next time you see that person, give them a smile and a nod. Let them know that you’re okay with it.

Single life can be just as fun as dating. Here’s why.

Friend rejection

Part of growing up is knowing who your real friends are. Sometimes the people you think are your mates don't come through for you. When this happens it can only mean one thing – change is needed.

If some of your friends suddenly ditch you for a new set of mates then honestly, you’re better off. Try not to get worked up over it - do you really want friends like that in your life? It’s probably best to forget them altogether and concentrate on the real people in your life.

Sometimes it can be just as hurtful being rejected by a set of mates who you've just met. Remember, if they’re not willing to give you the time of day to get to know you, then don’t give them yours. You’ll meet some very good friends eventually if you just keep meeting new people. Why don’t you try to sit with different classmates everyday or partner up with someone you’ve never really had a full conversation with? Remember, never take it personally!

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