The email to send when you don’t get the job

A firm I worked with recently hired the second choice candidate they interviewed for another position. Not only did the candidate make a great impression during the interview, but he also sent a follow-up email and a thank-you note.

In the emails, he expressed gratitude for the opportunity and demonstrated openness and willingness to work with the company, which solidified him as our top pick for another vacancy. 

Being the second choice doesn’t always mean the door is closed. A couple of well-known individuals who were hired after initially being passed over include Sheryl Sandberg, former COO of Facebook, who wasn’t the company’s first choice for the role but went on to shape Facebook into a global giant.

Barack Obama was not the first pick for his Senate seat either; he was approached only after the initial preferred candidates declined and this opportunity of course set him on the path to the presidency.

I get it rejection can sting, especially after all the effort put into job applications and interviews. However, there's a way to make more of a lasting impression— crafting a thoughtful and professional email when you don’t get the job offer. This approach can leave the door open for future opportunities.

Here’s a guide to writing an impactful email, along with reasons why sending one can be highly beneficial.

1. Expresses gratitude.  Consider beginning with something like "I want to express my sincere appreciation for the opportunity to interview with you on Wednesday." This demonstrates professionalism, appreciation, and respect for the opportunity.
2. Personalized reference to the interview. Continue with something like "It was a delight getting to know you and your team and more about the company, its vision and mission towards the future.” This shows genuine interest in the company and connection with the team, making the email feel more sincere and thoughtful.
3. Acknowledges the rejection with grace. "While I am naturally disappointed to hear that I was not selected for the role, I have full confidence in your judgment in choosing the best candidate."  Maintaining a positive tone you can present as mature and graceful, reinforcing a sense of professionalism.
4. Keep the door open for future opportunities. To signal flexibility and willingness to stay in touch for potential roles, you may continue with something along the lines of "If there are any changes regarding the position or if you believe there may be another opportunity at your company where my skills and expertise could be a good fit, I would be eager to discuss this further."
5. End on a well-wishing note. At the end of the email keep it positive and warm, further solidifying a lasting and favorable impression, with something like: "In the meantime, I want to express my best wishes to you and your team in finding the ideal candidate."

Remember sending a professional and sincere follow-up email after not being offered the job can turn the situation into a positive networking opportunity. What might have looked like the end of the road may just be a detour leading you to something greater!

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