When the dreaded call or email comes and tells you something along the lines of, “Thank you so much for applying, but we have decided NOT to move your application forward” it can bring us down. All we heard was, we don't want you, you're not good enough, but guess what YOU are!

Here are 4 things to help you not only feel better about yourself, but how to ROCK the next interview!

1- Make a list of all of your accomplishments. Think of it as your top greatest hits ; ) You are amazing, remember that! This will help you see yourself in a positive way when you’re feeling particular low. Try writing encouraging notes to yourself and put them throughout your home, car, and wherever you might see them. A simple “Don’t give up, you can do this” works wonders when you’re feeling down. I once covered my entire bathroom with motivational quotes and it made me feel better and reminded me that I am greater than this challenge and the challenge is NOT greater than me. There’s one of my quotes now, haha!

2- Ask for feedback from the interviewer. Although you may not have gotten the job, it’s a fantastic opportunity to find out how you can do better on the next one. Consider sending the person who interviewed you a quick email or call them and mention that you appreciated their time and consideration but you were wondering if they could offer you a quick few suggestions on what they thought went well and where you have room for improvement. Take notes and then bring all that you learn into your next interview! It’s sometimes difficult to hear criticism, but remember it’s for your benefit and you will become stronger and better as a result. Unfortunately it’s not uncommon for interviewers to delay in returning your emails or they may not get back to you at all, but you may be pleasantly surprised.

3- Let out your frustration in a healthy way. Head to the gym, go for a long walk, talk to friends and let out all of those emotions that are frustrating/upsetting you. Losing out on an opportunity can be deeply upsetting, but as my dear friend once said, “Get mad and then get over it,” meaning don’t hold onto the negative energy and focus on the next great thing coming your way! Plus beating yourself up won’t make the bad experience disappear, it will just take away from finding the job where you truly belong and make you feel worse.

4- Get back out there and apply to more jobs. Thomas Edison once said, “Our greatest weakness lies in giving up. The most certain way to succeed is always to try just one more time.” Smart man right there! You can do this, so stay positive and go get em! Make sure to reflect on what you did well in the interview and which questions you struggled with. Then practice more confident answers to those tough questions before your next interview.

Anyone else have anything they do to make themselves stronger after being rejected? Share it with those who are feeling down!