Relax. Acceptance and rejection are a part and parcel of the job-hunt experience. I have known applicants who have failed in their first 100 attempts. That does not mean that you are incapable and undeserving. It just means that there are others more fortunate than you and that, jobs not being so easily available, you were the unlucky one who lost out.
But for you to get back into contention, you can do so, by writing and sending a post-rejection follow-up letter. Just because it did not work out this time does not mean that they will not have a place for you in the future. Your letter will put you on the company’s radar. It will also convey your maturity to the company that you can remain professional even in the face of rejection.
Who knows the guy whom they’ve chosen, may not turn up or leave after a few days or weeks of employment. Your letter will show that you are still interested and they will treat you as a backup in case the first choice does not work out.
Also the company will keep you in their mind should future choices crop up. Companies share rapport with other companies and they could recommend your name to another company, where somebody like you could adapt and work better than the place where you had unsuccessfully applied.
Never ask in your letter why you were rejected. It is their prerogative and we have no right to intrude or encroach. However, it would not be out of place for you to enquire, that while you respect their decision, would it be possible for them to fill you in on areas you could improve on in the future. Don’t forget to add that you would want to be thought of in the future if they are in need of a new person on-board.
There’s no guarantee that a follow up letter will work. But it shows that you are man of etiquette and values and that your interest in the company was sincere and that you are a professional who is willing to take disappointments in his stride.
Here's a sample follow-up letter you can alter according to your needs
June 13, 2012
Ms Kathy Samson
Sales Manager
Loma Linda Center
East Campus (909) 558-6000
25333 Barton Road
Loma Linda, California 92354
Dear Ms. Samson:
If you recollect, I was amongst the chosen few, who were interviewed by you for the opening of a regional purchase officer. Unfortunately, I was not selected for the position and I will not hesitate to state, so keep I was to work for you, that my disappointment was intense.
However, my interest in joining your team has remained strong and I would request you to keep me in contention if future openings arise.
Perhaps, you remember that I have considerable experience and expertise in this field and a consistent track record that my former employer will happily vouch for.
Since our meeting, I have completed a special program in Computer Applications, to strengthen my computer competence.
May I humbly request you to kindly fill me on where I went wrong, to enable me to work towards eliminating those shortcomings.
Given the opportunity, I am confident in my ability to deliver the kind of aggressive account growth you outlined as a priority during our interview.
I have recently updated my resume, and I am enclosing it so that you will have the most current version.
I welcome the chance to speak with you again about future opportunities. Feel free to call me at (555) 123-4567 or email me at robertwilson@rediffmail.com.
Thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
