Note from MOAA: A version of this article first appeared in Marketing Yourself for a Second Career, a publication available exclusively to MOAA Premium and Life members. Learn more about joining MOAA at this link.

Rejection might be a part of your job-search journey. It’s a completely normal part of the process … and a difficult one, if you choose to believe it means “I am not good enough” or “I am not qualified” or a hundred other self-deprecating thoughts.

Instead, consider choosing to think about rejection through a positive lens: “This was not a good fit, and there is a better opportunity out there for me.” This mindset will enable you to learn from your experience and continue to persevere in your job search from a place of confidence.

Whatever you do, do not take the rejection personally. There might have been other factors influencing the selection process besides the strength of your résumé and/or the quality of your interview, such as an internal candidate or a strong networking connection.

Instead, reflect on what you learned from the process and move on to the next opportunity. Here are a few tactics to help you rebound from this setback:

• Stay Classy: Write a thoughtful “turn-down” letter to the employer thanking them for the opportunity to interview and expressing disappointment about not being selected for the position. You can also reaffirm your interest and ask permission to stay in touch for future opportunities.
  
  
• Look Forward, Not Back: A company is unlikely to share the reasons you were not selected due to legal constraints and other factors. Instead, focus on being as prepared as possible for your next interview and ask mentors, friends, and colleagues for advice and feedback. MOAA’s Transition and Career Center offers free assistance and interview preparation for members; email transition@moaa.org to learn more.
  
  
• Keep Perspective: Recognize that many hiring managers are looking for an extremely close fit between the skills and experiences on a résumé and what is required as delineated in the job description. Continue to tailor your résumé so it closely matches job descriptions.

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The bottom line is to stay focused and remain positive. Move on to the next interview with enthusiasm.