Fair warning, this is a total pity party, I just need to share some frustration. I've just found out that for the 4th time since I started job hunting last September, I've made it to the last two candidates but not got the job. I'm trying to not let it get to me but it really is hurting now.
I've applied for so many jobs (maybe 100?) and only got 7 interviews. I actually got one of the jobs but then had to turn it down as it was based up north (I'm south) and was supposed to be remote, but at contract stage HR told the hiring manager that all new hires have to be in the office 2 days a week, which I can't do when it's 4.5 hours each way by train!
Of the rest, one I had a no at first stage with no feedback, just a generic rejection email. Of the 4 where I've been one of the last candidates I've had:
- sorry but the other candidate had more experience... so why was I even in the mix then, that's clear from our CVs, surely??
- sorry but the other candidate had more appropriate experience... I then see her profile on LinkedIn and she's literally had one job since graduating, so maybe 12-18 months work experience in total, how does that trump my 5 years in this industry and 10 more years elsewhere (but transferrable skills)??
- sorry, we really liked you but the other candidate had less engagement skills but more data experience and ultimately we decided data was most important.. ok, that one I get, it makes sense and I appreciated their feedback
- no feedback at all, just a generic rejection.. this is the one I had today.
What really winds me up about the last one is I had to do two presentations - I spent hours on those, time I don't have as a busy working mum, and they can't even be bothered to speak to me or give me tailored feedback. This is on top of the other presentations I've had to do for the other roles.
I had another first stage email last Friday but the current post holder is leaving after about 18 months in role, which doesn't fill me with confidence. But then I have no confidence left now.