Rejection, It's Part of The Process

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Rejection in tech interviews can feel like the end of the world, especially when you’re asked about something you don’t know. I’ve been there. The sting of hearing “We’re moving forward with another candidate” is discourging, but looking back, I realize those rejections were my blessings in disguise.

Every failed interview was an opportunity to grow. The question I didn’t know the answer to? It highlighted a gap in my skills. Sure, I couldn’t impress the interviewer that day, but I was given the chance to improve for the next one.

I used to think interviews were just about the answers. I spent hours brushing up on algorithms and reading up on coding questions. But what I learned over time is that interviews also reveal the gaps that we don’t even know exist. They push us to become better, sharper, and more knowledgeable.

The more I interviewed, the more I realized that the process was a form of feedback. These rejections weren’t just a door slammed in my face—they were opportunities for self-improvement. Interviews are a way to measure where you are in your learning journey, helping you pinpoint exactly where to focus your efforts next.

So, how did I handle rejection? Instead of dwelling on the disappointment, I made sure to:

1. Review What I Didn’t Know: Each time I got stumped on a question, I took it as an invitation to learn. I dove into the topic, made sure I understood it, and applied it moving forward.

2. Ask for Feedback: I asked interviewers for feedback when I could. Most were happy to point out areas for improvement, and that helped me focus on the right things.

3. Keep Going: Rejection doesn’t define you. Each interview is a stepping stone toward improvement. Even if you don’t land the job, you’re learning something to help you land the next one.

By shifting my mindset, I began to see interviews for what they are: an invaluable tool for self-assessment and growth. Each rejection became less of a setback and more of a checkpoint on my path to success.

So if you’re feeling discouraged by the no’s, remember that every “no” is just a “not yet.” You’re getting closer to the right opportunity, and the skills you pick up along the way will prepare you for it.

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