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Reaching out After Getting Rejected - Seeking Feedback

Converting rejection into learning opportunity

Recruiter or Interviewer who rejected you20-35% expected response rateBest sent Within 24-48 hours of rejection

Subject

Thank you for the opportunity - seeking feedback

Alternate subject lines

Grateful for the [Company Name] interview experience
Request for feedback - [Job Title] interview
Thank you and hoping to learn from the experience

Email body

Hi [Name], I hope you're doing well! I wanted to reach out to thank you for the opportunity to interview for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. While I'm disappointed that it didn't work out this time, I really enjoyed [specific positive aspect - e.g., "learning about your team's technical challenges" or "the system design discussion with [interviewer name]" or "the culture I experienced during the interview"]. I'm committed to improving my skills and would be incredibly grateful if you could share any feedback on my interview performance. Specifically: • Areas where I could have done better • Skills or knowledge gaps I should address • Any advice for future opportunities I understand you might be busy, so even a few brief points would be immensely valuable for my growth. I'd love to stay connected and hope to cross paths again in the future. [Company Name] is doing amazing work, and I'll continue following your progress! Thank you again for your time and consideration. Best regards, [Your Name] [LinkedIn Profile]

Tips for success

  • Send within 24-48 hours of rejection
  • Express genuine gratitude despite rejection
  • Be humble and open to feedback
  • Don't be defensive or argumentative
  • Keep the door open for future opportunities

Do's and don'ts

Do

  • Thank them sincerely for the opportunity
  • Be specific about what you appreciated
  • Ask for constructive feedback
  • Show commitment to improvement
  • Maintain professionalism and grace

Don't

  • Don't argue with the decision
  • Don't be passive-aggressive
  • Don't demand detailed feedback
  • Don't burn bridges
  • Don't send angry or emotional messages

Placeholders

[Name]Recruiter or interviewer's first name
[Company Name]Company name
[Job Title]Position you interviewed for
[Specific positive aspect]Something you appreciated about the process
[Your Name]Your full name
[LinkedIn Profile]Your LinkedIn URL

Follow-up email

7-10 days after initial email if no response

Following up - Feedback request

Hi [Name], I hope you're doing well! I wanted to follow up on my request for feedback on my interview for the [Job Title] position. I completely understand if you're unable to provide detailed feedback. Even high-level guidance would be helpful for my professional growth. Thank you again for the opportunity! Best regards, [Your Name]

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