Dealing with Rejection After Applying to Hundreds of Jobs

Recently, I went through two interviews and a technical test, only to receive an email saying the hiring process was paused. I’m unsure whether it’s a subtle rejection or just a delay, but it’s not the first time this has happened. Over the past few months, I’ve applied to hundreds—possibly thousands—of jobs, sent countless emails, DMs on LinkedIn and Twitter, and even spoken to people in person. Yet, here I am, still waiting for that opportunity to come through.

There were moments where I landed roles, only to be laid off soon after.

At times like these, it’s hard to stay motivated because the outcome we strive for—the job—hasn’t materialized yet. However, through reading, podcasts, and learning from people like Andrew Tate, I’ve come to realize that focusing on what you can control is key. It’s far more productive and healthy to keep taking action rather than dwelling on what hasn’t happened.

For me, taking action means continuing to learn through online courses, writing, and publishing articles like this one.

This is Day 1 of my 100 days of transformation challenge; writing one article everyday. Inspired after having a conversation with Grëg Häris

These activities may not yield immediate results, but they are part of the process that ultimately leads to success. If you think about it, it’s a win-win situation: by learning and creating content, I’m improving my skills. Even if I don’t land a job right away, I’ve still built something valuable that could help someone else, and when the job does come, I’ll be even more prepared.

One principle that keeps me going is adopting a "Win or Learn" mindset. This approach helps me push through, even on difficult days.

So, how do I deal with rejection?

1. Focus on What I Can Control

   I may not be able to control whether I get the job, but I can control how I respond to rejection. By investing time in learning and creating, I’m taking positive steps forward.

2. Adopt a "Win or Learn" Mindset

   Instead of seeing rejection as failure, I view it as a learning experience. Each setback teaches me something new, and over time, those lessons will compound into something greater.

3. Reflect and Get Feedback

   I often ask myself: are there things I should start or stop doing? Should I pivot? It’s important to avoid falling into the trap of the sunk cost fallacy—continuing to invest time, money, or effort into something that isn’t working, just because you’ve already invested so much. For me, dropping out of university was a tough decision, but it was necessary because it wasn’t working for me despite the time and money already spent. You need to figure out what that is for you.

4. Be Present and Celebrate Small Wins

   Some days ago, I was feeling down, so I created a note listing all my wins in 2024. That simple act helped me realize how much progress I’ve made. You can do the same—whether it’s writing down three wins a day or starting a gratitude journal, reflecting on your achievements can give you the motivation to keep moving forward.

Rejection is a form of energy. As Albert Einstein said: "Energy cannot be created or destroyed, but can be transformed from one form to another"

Instead of letting rejection bring you down, use it as energy to become better, push yourself forward, and get into an upward spiral.

Starting from today - write down 3 wins daily or 3 things you're grateful for.

Until next time,
Ekemini