Written by: Victory Soroh

I once applied for a job at a telecommunications company. After taking the aptitude test, I was invited for an interview. I was so excited that I had progressed to the next step. I spent the next few days preparing for the interview. I had sleepless nights just to make sure I was fully prepared and ready. The day came, and I woke up as early as 5:00 a.m. to get ready; this was unusual because my day usually starts at 6:30 a.m. I wanted to arrive on time. I arrived on time, which gave me plenty of time to unwind, diffuse tension by striking up brief conversations with other applicants, and take in the atmosphere of the business before I was allowed inside.

Other candidates who had gotten in before me spent less than 5 minutes. I became less tensed and more confident. In my head, I’ll just go in, do my thing, and come out excited and successful. Well, let’s just say that’s not my story. Lol. On the other hand, I actually went in and did my thing, but I didn’t come out excited and successful.

I waited outside the building to see what would happen. I was hoping the interviewers would just say, Please, can you call back the tall girl who just left wearing a black dress and red lipstick? I waited for more than 30 minutes, and I realized no one was coming. Then I took my leave. I had faith. I really did, but I guess it was enough to make me succeed.

I spent the day coming up with potential explanations for why I might have been turned down. I don't generally wear makeup since I don't have the energy for it, but I did for that interview only, and I started feeling disappointed that all of my efforts had been for nothing. You know what I did? I went to a photo studio and took a beautiful passport with my pretty make-up on. Though I didn’t get the job, on the brighter side, I got some beautiful pictures and videos that make me grin even now.

Weeks passed, and I didn’t get any feedback from them. I had to get rid of the expectation. I continued with my job and focused on improving myself.

Although I was pained, here are a few things I didn’t do and a few things I did.

I didn’t cry.

I didn’t stop believing in myself.

I didn’t condemn myself.

Rather, I:

I practiced gratitude for the things I’ve achieved so far.

I became more intentional with my career plans.

I thank God constantly for where I'm headed.

Nevertheless, companies need to do better. Giving reasons for rejecting candidates helps build trust, improves the hiring process, and contributes to a positive company image. Also, constructive feedback helps candidates understand their areas for improvement, enhancing their skills and interview performance for future opportunities.

Selah

Victory Soroh

Author
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