Dear Diane,
I am a new college graduate and I am recently faced with going on multiple job interviews. Many of them have reached out to let me know I am not the candidate they finally selected. I am at a loss as to how to respond to a rejection letter, or if I should respond at all. It feels weird to say “Thank you for not choosing me.” Any ideas or suggestions would be greatly appreciated
David E.
Dear David,
What a great question! Even when you do not get the job, it’s important to respond back. Thank them for the notification and let them know if anything changes, you would welcome the opportunity to be reconsidered for the position. Often the choice between candidates is a tough one. There can be several great options and an employer makes the best decision, based on what limited knowledge they have of each candidate. The final choice may not work out and you may be contacted to come in for another round of interviews.
Always make it a point to leave a positive, lasting impression. You never know when you will run into the person who interviewed you again. You don’t want the last impression to be one that is unfavorable. By not responding, you send the message that you are either upset or negligent.
Good luck with your job search!
Best,
Diane