How to respond to interview rejection?

Receiving a rejection can be tough, but responding gracefully can leave a positive impression with the company and potentially open doors for future opportunities. Here’s how to craft a polite and professional response.

Sample Response to Interview Rejection

Subject: Thank You for the Opportunity

Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],

Thank you for informing me about your decision regarding the [Position Title] at [Company Name]. While I’m disappointed not to move forward, I truly appreciate the opportunity to interview with your team.

I remain very interested in [Company Name] and would love to be considered for future openings that align with my skills and experience. If possible, I would also be grateful for any feedback you could share that would help me improve for future opportunities.

Thanks again for your time and consideration. I hope to stay in touch.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

Why This Response Works

1. Polite and Professional: It shows that you’re gracious and respectful even in the face of rejection.
2. Express Continued Interest: If you genuinely like the company, this lets them know you’re still open to future opportunities.
3. Ask for Feedback: While it’s not always guaranteed, it never hurts to politely ask for feedback to improve for future interviews.

Next Steps for Preparation

If you didn’t make it through this time, take it as a learning opportunity. Strengthen your skills with resources like Grokking the Coding Interview or Grokking the System Design Interview to be even more prepared for your next interview!