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Last week I applied for this job that I think I would be perfect for based on the job description and the niche nature of my industry. I submitted it online and also mailed a hard copy to the person who would be my boss.

Today was my deadline for follow up so I called last night and left a voice message. This morning I had a rejection email that basically said that I didn't have enough experience but otherwise they were impressed and would consider me for future opportunities.

Can I continue to sell myself at this point or do I need to move on?  I haven't applied for a job in four years - in other words, this is not a desperation, apply for anything that's out there move. I genuinely think that I would be a good fit for them. Is there anyway to say that without sounding weird/desperate/pushy?

Thanks.

simonspeichert's picture

Send a thank you note to everyone you interviewed with. Just as simple as "Bob, thanks again for the opportunity to interview with your company. I love what you're doing in your sector, and given our conversation about x widget, I know your company would be a great fit for me."

I sent thank you notes after an interview - even one to the HR person that I didn't actually meet. I got called a couple weeks later to interview for a different position. Even if you didn't actually impress, they'll still remember the thank you note.

ksg139's picture

I apologize for being unclear. This is not the interview phase. This is the resume/follow up phase.

Thank you for your input though. I will certainly send thank you notes should I get an interview.

wendii's picture
Admin Role Badge

There's lots of things that might be going on here which you can have no knowledge of. For example:

The advert might not have been accurate about the level of experience required.
They might have had a much higher standard of applications than they expected.
They might not have know what they wanted till they saw the resumes.
The vacancy might have been cancelled or downgraded.
You might not have read the advert as accurately as you thought.

Since you have been given feedback, you are unlikely to get anything further if you follow up.

However, in the medium term, if you believe this company is a good fit for you, then begin a strategy to get a job there. Learn more about the company, try and make personal contacts through your extending your existing network and watch out for other opportunities there so that when you see another role there which you are a fit for you can get the inside track on it.

Wendii

ksg139's picture

You are, of course, right. I have a hard time balancing the MT advice of "show enthusiasm, opportunity to sell yourself, be energetic, follow up" and "you don't control the interview." Personally, from the other side of the desk, I hate it when candidates call me out of the blue and say "So when's my interview?" I don't want to come off as pushy at all. I will follow your advice. Thanks again.