You received the email and read it twice. The message says: “This time we have chosen another candidate. If we have other suitable opportunities, we will contact you.” It's obviously a rejection, but does this mean your opportunity to work at this company in the future has ended? And more importantly, can you turn this response into an advantage? Absolutely! Here’s how!
What does this message mean?
In most cases, it means that:
You were a well-prepared candidate, but not the best fit at that moment.
The difference was small (they chose a candidate with more specific experience, seniority, or cultural fit)
The company wants to keep the relationship open
Do you still have real chances?
Yes, in these specific situations:
You reached the final stage of recruitment
You had multiple interviews or completed a technical test and you were on the shortlist.The feedback was positive
Phrases such as “We were impressed by your experience,” “The decision was difficult,” or “We encourage you to apply again in the future” indicate that this was not a definitive “no.”The company is growing
Organizations that recruit constantly often return to strong candidates who were previously rejected.
What you can do concretely and strategically
A rejection can become an advantage if you handle it correctly.
1. Respond professionally
Send a short message:
Thank the employer for the opportunity.
Express your interest in staying in touch
Ask for constructive feedback
A mature response positions you differently from most candidates who never reply.
2. Ask for specific feedback
Don’t ask generically, “Why wasn’t I chosen?” Phrase it strategically:
“To help me grow professionally, it would be very useful to know which skills or experiences would increase my chances for similar roles.”
This way, you can gain valuable insights: lack of experience with a specific tool, missing soft skills, or a different approach that was expected.
3. Connect on LinkedIn
Send a connection request to the recruiter with a short, professional message. Recruiters often search within their own network when a new position opens.
4. Apply again — but intelligently
If a similar role appears in 3–6 months:
Apply again
Mention that you were previously in the process
Show what you have improved since then
Many candidates are hired on their second or third application.
What not to do
Don’t take the rejection personally
Don’t send emotional messages
Don’t demand aggressive justifications
Don’t block your energy on that one job
A rejection only means there wasn’t a perfect match at that time.
Cum transformi refuzul in oportunitate
Ask yourself:
What exactly was I missing?
What can I improve in the coming days?
What skills are recruiters constantly looking for in my field?
Then take action: courses, certifications, personal projects, networking. Candidates who treat every rejection as constructive feedback show visible progress within 2–3 recruitment processes.
Work with Smartemp for career counseling and for a temporary job recommendation
It’s completely normal to feel uncertain before an interview or to have questions. In these moments, support from a specialized recruitment and career counseling team can make all the difference.
Smartemp, with 14 years of experience in Romania, specializes in both recruitment and supporting employees in transition. They can help you:
- Identify real job opportunities aligned with your profile and salary expectations;
- Craft a competitive CV tailored to current employer requirements;
- Practice interviews to increase confidence and success
- Explore new fields where your skills are transferable for a career change
Studies from 2025 show clearly: applying early helps, applying well helps even more, and applying strategically can build long-term opportunities.
Write to us at: recrutare@smartemp.ro
Conclusion
“We will contact you” is a rejection, but it is not a definitive closure. In recruitment, professional memory matters. The way you handle a “no” can be the reason you receive a “yes” a few months later.
A well-managed rejection strengthens your professional reputation. In the long term, reputation weighs more than a single interview.
Sources:
- TheMuse.com – How to Ask for Feedback After Job Rejection (With Examples!)
- Forbes.com – 3 Ways To Respond When You Get Rejected For A Job
- Placement.com – Asking for Feedback After Being Rejected for a Job
- OptimCareers.com – How to Ask For Feedback After Job Rejection
Read also:
Why You Get Attached to Jobs and How You Can Let Go of This Habit Without Feeling Guilty
How to Emotionally Manage the Period When You’re Looking for a Job. Discover the Strategies That Build Your Confidence!