Being rejected can be a difficult experience. Often, the time and effort we put into something new - a relationship, a job, a career opportunity - has no effect on the outcome, and we're left wondering what went wrong.

Worse, we can sometimes be left wondering what went wrong with ourselves.

Adopting the right mindset can transform rejection into a valuable opportunity for growth, especially when it comes to careers.Read on for our top tips on how to deal with rejection from a job and turn the experience into an opportunity for growth:

1. Seek Comprehensive Feedback: One of the keys to overcoming rejection is understanding the reasons behind it. Instead of relying solely on self-analysis, there's no better way of doing this than asking for direct feedback on your performance.
   
   
2. Reflect and Review: As painful as rejection might be, remember that it's a catalyst for personal growth. Delve into the feedback you received and retrace your steps. Reflect on what went well and explore alternative approaches. Did you prepare enough for the interview? Could you have built stronger rapport with the interviewer? Were there questions you could have answered more effectively?
   
   
3. Develop a Plan: After looking at your feedback and analysing your own performance, you'll be well-equipped to know the key areas in which you can improve. Create a plan outlining how you can address the gaps in your performance, and don't be afraid to seek training or advice from an expert in their field.
   
   
4. Embrace a New Outlook: Another key element of turning rejection into an opportunity for growth lies in your mindset. Certain factors, such as the interviewer's preferences or something that might have been bothering you on the day, can't be changed. Instead, remember you can only work on things that are within your control. Concentrate on what you realistically can change!
   
   
5. Refine Your Search: Rejections can provide valuable insights into whether something truly aligns with your aspirations and values. Revisit the job spec and honestly ask yourself if you could see yourself in that role on a daily basis. If certain aspects of the role didn't excite you, chances are the interviewer noticed it too. Use this experience to refine your future job searches - reconsider the keywords you're using, and be sure to ask yourself whether the role associated with the job title matches what you want.
   
   
6. Practice Resilience: Setbacks are just that - setbacks. An obstacle in a path which stretches on much further than the time you've taken to go through the process of being rejected. Stay constructive, maintain a positive outlook, and embrace the lessons learned. Resilience is a skill, and a very valuable skill when practiced right.