Receiving a rejection letter after an intense job search can feel like a crushing blow, especially when you’ve invested significant time and effort into the process.
Picture this: You’ve applied for a coveted Medical Science Liaison (MSL) position at a leading pharmaceutical company. You made it through multiple rounds of screening and were invited to a gruelling full-day assessment centre. The day was filled with challenging presentations, role plays, rigorous tests, and nerve-wracking interviews.
You gave it your all, showcasing your skills and knowledge, and you made it to the final two candidates. After the day was over you were wrecked. And then the following day you get the notification that you were not successful. Sucker-punch!
In the end, the position went to someone with more experience. This was me about eight years ago and remember feeling absolutely gutted at the time because the role really excited me.
It’s natural to feel disheartened and question your worth. However, it’s crucial to remember that this setback is not the end of your journey, but a stepping stone towards your next opportunity.
In the end I became a successful medical writer, which I thoroughly enjoy and has led to me running my own six-figure business. If I’d got that MSL role years ago, undoubtedly, I’d be on a completely different career path now.
Rejection is a common experience in job searching, It’s crucial to remember that rejection is not a reflection of your overall capabilities or potential. Instead, it often relates to the specific needs and circumstances of the hiring company.
For example, a company might prioritise candidates with RNA sequencing skills over those with CRISPR gene editing expertise due to a recent shift in their research focus. Such decisions are beyond your control and should not lead to negative thinking. Accept that the timing wasn’t right and move forward.
How to Handle Job Rejection in Biopharma
Let’s explore how to handle rejection and turn it into a powerful motivator in your biopharma career:
1. Focus on the Positives
When you receive a rejection, it’s essential to focus on what went well during your job search process. Did you attend a networking event, find a job opening, and complete the application? That’s a win.
If you progressed beyond the initial screening, it shows that the company valued your skills and saw potential in you. This is a confidence booster as other employers will likely feel the same. Each step forward in the hiring process, even if it ends in rejection, reinforces the idea that you have valuable skills.
Sometimes, the reason for rejection might be that another candidate had more industry experience or was an internal applicant. Take pride in how far you got and use any feedback to improve for future applications.
2. Seek Constructive Feedback
When you receive feedback from hiring managers, it’s important to look for common themes. If multiple hiring managers mention the same point, it’s likely something you can work on. However, be cautious as feedback might sometimes be a way for decision-makers to justify their choices.
Use tangible feedback to make improvements, whether it’s gaining a new skill or refining your interview technique. Remember, feedback is a gift. It provides you with insights that can help you grow and become more competitive in your job search.
3. Take Care of Yourself
Rejection can be emotionally draining, especially if you were excited about the role. It’s natural to feel deflated, but it’s important to take care of yourself. On the day you receive a rejection, give yourself a break. Don’t rush to rewrite your resume or network with new people while feeling down, as this can negatively impact your interactions.
Instead, take a few hours to do something that recharges you—take a walk, meet friends, meditate, or watch a movie. Allow yourself to process the rejection and start fresh the next day. Maintaining your mental and emotional well-being is crucial during a job search.
4. Keep Moving Forward
The job search process is a marathon, not a sprint. Stay hopeful and persistent. Your time will come, and you’ll receive an offer. The only way you’ll fail to find a job is by giving up.
Remember, each rejection brings you closer to the right opportunity. Celebrate your small wins and stay motivated. Surround yourself with supportive, positive people who can help you stay buoyant through the ups and downs.
Engage in activities that keep you inspired, whether it’s reading success stories of others in the biopharma industry, networking and learning from new people, or participating in relevant webinars and workshops.
5. Embrace Continuous Learning
In the biopharma industry, continuous learning is key to staying relevant and competitive. Use the time between job applications and interviews to enhance your skills. Enrol in online courses, attend industry conferences, and stay updated with the latest research and trends.
By doing so, you’ll not only improve your qualifications but also show potential employers that you’re committed to professional growth. Continuous learning can also provide you with a sense of accomplishment and progress, which is valuable in maintaining a positive outlook during your job search.
6. Engage with Our Community
If you’re looking for more tips and support in breaking into and growing a career in the biopharma industry, join the BB community. Subscribe to this blog for free tips and join thousands of other STEM professionals: www.biomedbadass.com/subscribe to stay updated and engaged.
The blog offers a wealth of resources, from expert advice to peer support, all aimed at helping you succeed. By subscribing, you will gain access to exclusive tips about growing a career in biopharma, job alerts, and networking opportunities that can significantly enhance your career prospects.
Remember, rejection is just a step in the process. Stay resilient, keep learning, and your persistence will pay off. Keep pushing forward, and you’ll find the right opportunity in the biopharma industry.
