One of the worst issues creatives face right now in the gig economy (or any economy, really) is rejection. If it feels like job rejection is constant, you’re not alone. Beyond traditional factors like oversaturation and drawn-out hiring processes, we now have AI to deal with. According to Forbes, about 65 percent of companies plan to use AI this year to reject candidates. This is frustrating, not only because highly qualified candidates are being rejected based on minor resume issues (like formatting) but also because it means all of our quality time spent applying for that dream job is not likely viewed by any human. (If you want to do a deep dive on why this is happening, there’s a book out there for you.)
But we digress—no matter the reason for your creative job rejection, whether by an algorithm, economic uncertainty, or fierce competition, here’s how to bounce back and land your next creative opportunity.
Step 1: Acknowledge Your Emotions
Job rejection stings—especially if you made it to the final rounds. Give yourself space to process and acknowledge what you’re feeling, but do not dwell on the rejection itself. And don't let the rejection define you. There are so many potential reasons why you didn't get the job, and 90 percent of those are out of our control. Recognize how you feel and ask yourself what you need at this moment. Maybe it’s a walk or a treat from a nearby cafe. Maybe you can contact your therapist for an appointment to vent. Whatever you do, don’t wallow. Take care of yourself, and when you’re ready, move on to the next step.
Step 2: Seek Constructive Feedback
Whenever possible, ask (politely) for feedback from recruiters, interviewers, or hiring managers on what you could have done to land the job. Many times you might find out the reason was, again, out of your hands. But you deserve to know if there is something about your resume or portfolio that is sabotaging your chances. You might have faced rejection because of it now, but you can fix any issue before you begin looking for another position. Thank the person who provides feedback and, if you agree with their assessments and still want a job in this same industry, focus next on revising your assets, interviewing and communication styles, and more, based on their targeted feedback.
Step 3: Reflect, Revise, and Adapt
Now it’s time for goal-setting. While feedback can be hard to hear, consider this situation as a great learning opportunity. You might have failed once, but you owe it to yourself and your career to show improvement from here on out. Set small, attainable goals for yourself and take action! The new goal might be to enhance your skills, learn something new, practice interviewing, or gain new experience in a volunteer position. Make sure your goal is attainable within a reasonable time frame. Once you’ve achieved your goal, take time to celebrate and revise all of your job application materials to reflect the new and empowered you.
Step 4: Remember Your Strengths
Rejection can make even the most talented creatives question their worth. You got this far because you persevered, and so you should never lose sight of your accomplishments. So take some time to write them down. Maybe you put yourself through a tough coding bootcamp or pushed yourself out of your comfort zone to network, but in every move you take forward is a step in a better direction. Don’t lose sight of the things you are good at. Ask yourself: “Why would I make the best candidate for X role?” and see what you are able to say about yourself. Staying positive is the biggest key toward moving on from rejection—and you can only remain positive if you focus on the best qualities you have to offer.
Step 5: Lean on and Broaden Your Network
Job searching doesn't have to be a solo mission. If you are having difficulty finding a job, lean on your network. Look for any opportunity you can to make new acquaintances, too. Gain insights from people who hold the job you desire and engage with industry professionals through events, online forums, and social media. Ask these new acquaintances out for a virtual or in-person coffee to chat about their company experiences. The most understated reason for all of this networking is that it will let you be the first person to hear about new opportunities before they’re posted on job boards. Genuine networking will also help you get recommended and become a top applicant for your dream job.
In short, overcoming job rejection in creative industries is a common issue these days, but that doesn’t mean we should wallow in the emotional impact it takes on us. Remember that job-seeking should not be done alone and to ask for help when you are struggling. Lean on your network and find new people in areas that interest you. Take the time to upskill after asking for feedback so you can do even better the next time you apply.
If you’re looking for a partner-in-job-searching, why not register with Artisan so you can (a) talk with our recruiters, (b) brush up your skills and (c) be in-the-know the next time a great job is available? We are here to help place talented people like you with top clients nationwide. Interested?
