by Sheena Williams

So you have waited and waited, and found that you were not selected for that position you felt you were so perfect for and really wanted. You spent time and stress on a job that didn’t come through, and now you’re wondering…….

Take a Deep Breath — First and foremost, relax. The worst is over. There were only two answers that you could have received and you received a “no.” It is NOT the end of the world. It just means that you have been given a new starting point to operate from, and it starts today! Take a long hot bath, veg in front of the TV and prepare for the next day’s job hunt. Relax….

Review Your Clothing and Resume — Relaxed? Okay, now it’s time to get down to business! There was a reason that you did not get the job. It could be that you’re over-qualified; it could be that they needed someone with more education, or it could just be that you were not the right match for the employer. They may have had a sister with a baby cousin named Tracey who really needed the job. Or, maybe someone was in line to get that job prior to your applying for it.

Regardless of the reason, you need to step back and take an objective look at your resume and yourself. Is your resume concise and to the point? Is your shirt ironed and tucked in? Are you wearing too much perfume or smoking too many cigarettes? Pay attention to the little details and make sure that they are taken care of before your next job interview. Read and re-read your resume. Look for improvement.

Take This Time To Practice — Now that your resume is ready and your clothes are pressed and you look perfect, stand in front of the mirror and practice interviewing. Don’t laugh, knowing how to answer many of the questions that will be thrown at you takes practice. By going over possible questions aloud to yourself, you are affirming that you are answering the question in the correct way. What is your biggest weakness? You work too hard, you’re a perfectionist, or you don’t stop working until the job is done! Whatever your weakness is, try to make it your strength.

Blessing In Disguise — You didn’t get that job, and of course you’re pretty bummed right now. But did you ever stop and think that your not getting that job just might be a hidden blessing? I know it doesn’t look that way now with the rent due and your family wanting to eat. But look at the hours that shift was offering. Would you have been there to hug your kids at night? Look at the people you’d be working with. Do they look happy? Sure, they are working, but when you are applying to certain companies, make sure that you check their turnaround. There may be a reason they are always hiring. Remember, things always happen for a reason!

Work On Your Skills — Take the time to work on you. Go take a free class at the Workforce Center, your local library, or any community organization. Read a book and learn a skill that you can carry over into your next job. There are literally thousands of nonprofit organizations and websites that offer free training in specific areas. With just a few classes online, you can have a skill that you can now put on your resume!

I know it doesn’t look like it now, but when you get your new job, you will look back on those other interviews and laugh. Just remember to relax, improve your resume and yourself by practicing, building up your skills, and counting your blessings! △