How to Reply to a Job Rejection Email, with Examples
If you're in the job-seeking game, encountering rejection is pretty much par for the course. Although it can be a bit disheartening, facing rejection is both a rite of passage and a recurring situation. The key is not to let it bring you down.
So, you've got a rejection email, better turn that setback into a setup for success. Responding isn't just good manners; it's a way to maintain a positive impression and keep the doors open for future opportunities. Let's dive into the essentials of crafting a response to a job rejection and building new professional connections.
Why you should reply to a job rejection email
There are plenty of good reasons to shoot back a quick response to a job rejection email. You don't want to burn any bridges, so a brief and polite reply ensures that all that interview effort doesn't go down the drain.
Here's the kicker: most folks don't bother responding to a rejection email, so when you do, you automatically stand out from the crowd. It shows professionalism and is beneficial for long-term career prospects. Think of it as a chance to network and score some points. Proactively reaching out to hiring managers can give you an advantage; some connect with potential applicants before official job openings or if the hired candidate backs out or leaves the position quickly.
In some rare cases, job rejection emails are sent from the address of a very high C-level executive. The email might be automated, but, if you write back, you’ll be landing in the inbox of a decision-maker. So it’s a good idea to at least make yourself unforgettable in the eyes of someone who didn’t know who you were seconds earlier. And a sharp message can help you with that.
How to reply to a job rejection email
A job rejection reply is just like any other professional email, so keep it short, sweet, and straight to the point.
1. Choose your tone
Before writing anything, think about how you’ll address your recipient. If the person is distant, be reciprocal. The rejection is not personal, and making the other person feel comfortable is always safer. Now, if the person sending the email seemed like they were doing everything to get you to join, then be more lively.
2. Say thank you
Thank the hiring manager for their time and consideration and the opportunity to learn about the organisation. You might also note how much you appreciated getting a chance to meet individual employees. This is a great time to compliment them and end the process on a positive note. Make sure to be genuine here. Being overly obsequious will make you sound shady.
3. Express disappointment
Turn your disappointment into an opportunity to express genuine interest. However, keep it short, as dwelling on it will only make them feel worse. You want to maintain a positive tone throughout the email and show that you respect their decision.
job rejection emails are brutal pic.twitter.com/tj1fkPfkM3
— bigboxSWE (@bigboxSWE) November 18, 2023
4. Show interest
Make sure to convey your ongoing enthusiasm for the company. Remind the hiring manager of what interests you in working there, and express your desire to be considered for future opportunities.
5. Ask for feedback
Hiring managers can provide valuable insights for skill improvement, so you should seek feedback on why you weren't selected. Ask respectfully without implying doubt about their decision. While it might not be necessary for experienced individuals, this advice can be a game changer for those early in their careers. Based on their feedback, edit your resume or look into courses or certifications to become a valuable candidate for potential employers.
6. Add contact information
Make it easy for people to reach out by including various contact methods in your email signature, including your phone number, LinkedIn profile, and Calendly link. The goal is to keep the connection alive for any potential future opportunities.
7. Don’t make it look like it’s AI-written
AI-written content is getting eyerolls, and rightfully so. People are tired of reading LinkedIn replies with the same structure and plenty of connectors; they sound too contrived, and no one speaks with all those “Furthermore” words crammed into five paragraphs for something that should take five lines. So don’t make the mistake of rushing your email and copying what an AI churns out. Add the human touch instead.
yeah that thing I did was AI, ACTUAL INTELLIGENCE
— DJSabrinaTheTeenDJ (@DJSTTDJ) November 15, 2023
Example of an answer to a rejection email
Hi Satya,
I truly appreciate your prompt response regarding the Chief AI Engineer position. As you expect, I’m disappointed I won't be able to join the team at your company. Still, I appreciate you circled back and shared the update — I thought it was very considerate from your side. Meeting the team members was a pleasure — you’re welcome to relay my thank you to them as well.
Could you please provide specific feedback on my application and interview? Your advice would be so helpful in my job search. I’ll keep an eye out for future opportunities at Microsoft and hope to stay in touch. I would love to be considered for any new job openings. You can always connect with me on LinkedIn. I’ll send an invitation right away.
Best regards,
Sam
Follow up on the rejection email
If you want to go the extra mile after responding to the rejection email, initiate a LinkedIn connection request. You should include a brief, personalized message expressing appreciation for the meeting and a desire to stay in touch. View this as an opportunity to pitch yourself subtly and be up-to-date with any new positions the hiring manager is taking. You could be called for a different company if you strike a good impression.
Some final words about being rejected from a job
Not every hiring manager will respond to your answer to their job rejection email, and that's fine. Even getting advice from just one can boost your odds in future applications. Instead of seeing rejection as a failure, view it as a redirection. Meanwhile, check company reviews and see if any colleagues have anything to say about lasting relationships with that company. Maybe your rejection email is the first link to a new job down the line.
