Sometimes it happens: That which seems too good to be true really is. Your job search is no different, and understanding its outcome is important.
I’ve applied for positions for which I thought I was perfect, but, for whatever reason, I got passed by, and the offer was made to someone else. It is especially difficult to accept when you thought you had the job all wrapped up; the interview was great, you connected with the people, and you love the organization. You probably even envisioned all of the good you would do and how you were going to succeed at the job!
Yeah. Me, too.
Regardless of your disappointment, it is helpful to keep in mind that while you are looking for a job that’s a good fit for you, hiring managers want the same for their organizations — the right fit. They want someone with a firm grasp of what the job really entails and who will succeed in it.
The issue of “fit” also includes individual personalities and how well everyone can meld as a team. When job seeking, we don’t tend to think of our personality as a key criterion, but it certainly is a factor. You have to be a good fit with both your skills and your personality.
Right now, our economy is tight making job searches very competitive. When a company starts a search for new hires, they are inundated with hundreds of highly qualified people all of whom believe they are right for the job. It is always possible that there is someone else even more qualified for a position you seek. But the other scenario is that you are overqualified. If you’re overqualified for the job, your competition might have fewer overall qualifications than you, but perhaps someone else is the better fit in terms of the job and its specific duties.
Don’t expect to receive feedback as to why you didn’t get a job. Not every hiring manager gives feedback, and others may only give general reasons. It’s frustrating when you hear that the job you wanted went to someone else, but instead of focusing on why you didn’t get it, think about other jobs still available to you that may be a better fit.
Last updated on August 7th, 2009 at 01:43 am
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