HOW TO EXPLAIN BEING FIRED TO POTENTIAL EMPLOYERS

 

HERE ARE SOME TIPS TO HELP YOU EXPLAIN A TERMINATION TO A POTENTIAL EMPLOYER.

Job interviews are stressful under the best of circumstances. So if you’ve been fired, your nerves will likely go into overdrive, especially when they ask the inevitable question: “Why were you fired?”

Just as you prepare answers for other common interview questions, it's important to prepare an answer for this one. Rehearsing some go-to phrases will help you craft a professional answer during your interview.

Here are some tips to help you explain a termination to a potential employer.

Honesty is the best policy
Review the incident or issue that caused you to lose your job with an unbiased eye. Were you let go because of a conflict with a co-worker? Honestly evaluate your role in the clash. Did you fail to meet production quotas? Ask yourself whether it was due to a lack of effort or lack of affinity for the work you were doing. Before you can answer your potential employer honestly, you need to be clear-eyed with yourself.

When addressing your termination with your interviewer, don't try to position it as a layoff or any other less serious situation. Even if you've relocated to a new city for a fresh start, your employer will find out the truth. Be truthful in a way that reflects on you as favorably as possible.

Don’t bash your old boss
You want to portray yourself as a valuable addition to their team. One way to raise an instant red flag is to speak negatively about the last person who offered you a job.

Perhaps even more important, don't gossip about your last boss, your co-workers or the company you worked for. Besides showing a lack of maturity and discretion, gossiping is a strong sign that you'll be a divisive employee.

Don’t pass the blame
Along with bashing, blaming is a bad way to go. Your potential new employer wants to see that you take responsibility both for your past actions and for your performance on the job. No matter how unfairly you felt you were treated at your old job, you must recognize and accept your role in your termination.

This doesn't mean you need to give major details about what you did wrong in your previous position, though. Just make sure at some point you say, "I take responsibility for not performing up to my boss's expectations," and move on.

Stick to the point
A big mistake candidates make when answering this question is trying to explain every nuance of the situation. Don't spend five minutes setting up the circumstances around your termination. Cut to the chase and keep it simple.

If you were terminated because you had an attendance problem, for example, don't go on and on about your sick grandma, your chiropractor appointments or any other life situation that caused you to miss work. Instead, say something like, “I let personal circumstances interfere with my attendance at work. My situation is stable now and attendance won't be a problem.”

Don’t sound bitter
You'll make yourself unattractive to a potential employer if you come across bitter and defeated. Even if you think your previous employer was wrong to let you go, showing bitterness only makes you look bad.

Don't use language that emphasizes a past failure. Speak in ways that minimizes the impact of your termination.

Explain what you’ve learned
Including a “lessons learned” sentence in your answer shows potential employers you're aware and adaptable. It turns a negative into an asset. It also demonstrates candor and maturity by letting your interviewer see that you are objective about your shortcomings and learn from past experiences.

Promote your positives
It's difficult to turn talk of your termination into a way to showcase your skills and experience. Learning to segue gracefully into a discussion of your value to the company is an effective way to keep your interview on track.

Try transitioning with a phrase like this: “I was sorry to leave Company X; I learned a lot about the app development lifecycle there, which is why I thought my skills were well suited to this position."

Practice makes perfect
Getting fired is an emotional experience, and it's hard to talk objectively and calmly even weeks or months after the event. Practicing your answer helps you keep emotions at bay so you don't derail your interview.

Start by writing your response down; put it away, then come back to it a day later and read it again. If you are satisfied with your written answer, try it out on an objective friend or family member. Weigh their criticisms and tweak it if necessary.

Once you're completely satisfied with your answer, commit it to memory. Practice it in front of a mirror several times. Once you're comfortable with your answer and you've internalized it, you'll be able to speak naturally about your termination with your interviewer.

USE CREATIVITY TO COME UP WITH ALTERNATIVE WAYS TO RAISE A SALARY

 

INSTEAD OF GIVING UP OR SWITCHING JOBS WHEN GETTING A RAISE ISN’T A POSSIBILITY, CONSIDER SOME OF THE ALTERNATIVE WAYS TO RAISE A SALARY.

As you work in your role and become more experienced, the time will likely come when you want to request an increase in your salary. Asking for a raise isn't easy, but doing so can help you demonstrate your worth and the value you bring to the organization. However, in some cases, a company may not be able to meet your request for a raise. Consider alternative ways to raise your salary instead of giving up or switching jobs.

TUITION REIMBURSEMENT

If you haven't completed your higher education degree requirements yet, tuition reimbursement may be a benefit you could ask for instead of requesting a salary increase. Having your company pay for your tuition can help you increase your knowledge while qualifying for higher positions. Some companies require employees who use this benefit to commit to working there for at least a year after graduation. Tuition reimbursement is often viewed as a direct investment into the employees and the organization, making it an attractive offering for companies across all industries.

STUDENT LOAN REPAYMENT

If you've already completed your education but have outstanding student loans, consider asking your employer to pay off the debt. Companies that offer student loan repayment can typically offer up to $100 per month, which can add up over time. If you have $10,000 in outstanding student loans, your employer will pay off more than a tenth of the total balance each year.

INCREASED END-OF-YEAR BONUS

Many companies offer year-end bonuses to employees as rewards at the end of the year. Some are tied to individual or company-wide performance metrics, while others communicate thanks for a job well done throughout the year.

An employer might refer to this compensation as a holiday bonus since several holidays occur in December and early January. Employees at all professional levels can qualify for a year-end bonus, although the amount may depend on the individual's progression with the company.

Negotiating for a higher year-end bonus can be a way to earn more money without receiving a bump to your annual or hourly rate.

Negotiating for a higher year-end bonus can be a way to earn more money without receiving a bump to your annual or hourly rate. Some end-of-year bonuses are calculated based on specific metrics, such as the company's revenue or sales and profit results for the year. You could ask for an increased percentage if your bonus gets tied to metrics. For example, if you currently receive 2% of the annual sales, you could request an increase to 3%. On paper, that jump doesn't look like a lot, but your efforts could increase sales, resulting in a higher bonus each year.

SIGNING BONUS

When considering whether to accept a new job, it's helpful to review the job offer in its entirety before making your decision. If the company can't adjust your salary, you could request a signing bonus at the start of your employment. A signing bonus, also known as a sign-on bonus, is a lump sum paid to new employees when they enter new roles.

ADDITIONAL PTO

If your company offers a fixed amount of paid time off each year, one non-salary perk to consider requesting is additional PTO. Getting a few extra paid days off could help you disconnect from work more often, making you feel more recharged and productive when you're there.

Some companies have also altered their PTO offering to provide unlimited time off to employees, as long as they get their work done. If you want to work for one of these organizations, upload a resume to CareerBuilder and filter your employment search.

IMPROVED BENEFITS

When your position includes health care benefits, it's worth determining whether you can qualify for expanded perks, such as the following:

• Some companies offer different insurance plans to employees based on their level. For example, C-level executives might get access to a plan with a lower deductible or an expanded coverage network. Talk to your employer to find out what's available and what you can qualify for before you complete the open enrollment process.
• Another benefit that might be worth negotiating is access to a wellness plan. Many companies have started offering wellness plans to employees to provide mental health resources and other tools to help them improve their overall health and well-being.

Additional wellness perks that you might quality for include the following:

• Gym membership reimbursement.
• A standing desk.
• Access to a company fitness room.

CHILD CARE REIMBURSEMENT

The costs associated with daycare during work hours can be astronomical if you have children. The average weekly cost for infant child care in the United States is $216, which translates to 17.1% of the nation's median household income, according to Move.org. Living in an area where the cost of living is higher means child care is even more expensive. The most expensive states for daycare include:

• Washington, D.C.: $21,678 per year
• Massachusetts: $18,004 per year
• Indiana: $14,210 per year
• Minnesota: $14,170 per year
• New York: $14,116 per year

Child care reimbursement or other daycare alternatives provided by your employer can offset some of this expense, so it's worth asking about what's available. Some companies offer child care flexible spending accounts, allowing employees to set aside pretax funds to pay for qualified care, while others provide on-site daycare options.

FLEXIBLE SCHEDULE

A flexible schedule is an appealing perk to ask for that doesn't cost the company anything. You could request to work a few days from home, trimming your commuting cost, or you could ask for one day off per week in exchange for working longer hours the other four days.

Alternatively, you could request an adjustment to your regular working hours. If you live a substantial distance from the office and you must report in person each day, you may want to consider asking to work from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. or 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. to avoid rush-hour traffic.

HIGHER COMMISSION RATE

If you get paid commission based on your performance or sales, consider negotiating for a higher commission rate instead of a base salary increase. Since commissions directly connect with your performance and overall success, such an increase puts the opportunity to earn more money in your hands.

As you succeed in your role and make more sales for your employer, the company benefits as well, making this an option that most organizations are willing to consider for top-performing salespeople.

MILEAGE REIMBURSEMENT

Commuting to the office can get expensive, especially if you have to report to the office daily. Although some employees work remotely, many work in an office setting that requires them to drive (or take another form of transportation) to get there. If your job requires you to visit different locations, transportation costs could be eating into your take-home pay. Asking for reimbursement for these expenses could help you earn more money without asking for a salary increase.

Calculate the average amount you spend on transportation over several months. Present this information to your supervisor. Request reimbursement for some or all of your transportation expenses as a term of employment. You could also request a company car to reduce wear and tear on your vehicle.

Although a raise might seem like the only option to make more money in your career, you can get creative when discussing opportunities with your employer. These alternative ways to raise your salary can help you keep more of the money you earn while taking advantage of programs offered by your company.

ENJOY FLEXIBILITY AND GREAT WAGES IN THESE HIGH-PAYING TEMP JOBS

 

ENJOY THE FLEXIBILITY OF SHORT-TERM WORK WITH GREAT PAY TO BOOT WITH THESE HIGH-PAYING TEMP JOBS. WE ROUNDED UP 10 OPTIONS WITH GREAT SALARIES.

Temp jobs are the ultimate in flexibility. If you like to diversify your skill set and tackle new opportunities, these short-term positions may offer the perfect fit for your lifestyle. The options for short-term work are vast and varied, with many high-paying temp jobs in the mix.

Over 3.1 million people were employed in temporary help services as of May 2022, representing a 19.3% increase over the previous year. This growth is expected to continue, creating a wealth of options for anyone looking to explore a short stint in a new field. We've rounded up 10 of the fastest-growing occupations for temporary employment, many of which are on track for faster-than-average growth in coming years, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The BLS also reports that these positions pay at least $40,000 a year, and some offer six-figure incomes.

OPERATIONS RESEARCH ANALYST

As an operations research analyst, you can help organizations problem-solve using logic, analytics, and mathematics. You may find positions in industries as diverse as health care, business, logistics, IT, operations, and more. Operations research analysts may address issues with resource allocation, supply chain, pricing, or production schedules. Employment is expected to increase by 25% between 2020 and 2030.

PARALEGAL OR LEGAL ASSISTANT

Paralegals and legal assistants provide essential support for lawyers, working on a team alongside attorneys and other support staff. They assist with research, collect and organize evidence, maintain and file documents, draft correspondence, complete reports, and communicate with clients, witnesses, and other lawyers. These careers are expected to see 12% growth between 2020 and 2030.

MARKET RESEARCH ANALYST OR MARKETING SPECIALIST

Market research analysts and marketing specialists evaluate the sales potential for various products and services. They conduct in-depth research into market conditions, sales trends, consumer opinions, and competitor performance. Using complex data, these analysts will determine the effectiveness of marketing campaigns and offer detailed recommendations. Job opportunities should increase by about 22% by 2030.

APPLICATION SOFTWARE DEVELOPER

The essential computer applications that so many people use on a daily basis come from the talented minds of application software developers. In this role, you may get a temp assignment to create a new application from the ground up. This includes drafting a plan, producing diagrams and models, designing the code, and testing the application for proper functionality. This field anticipates 22% growth between 2020 and 2030.

BIOLOGICAL TECHNICIAN

Biological technicians conduct laboratory tests and experiments. Responsibilities include maintaining lab equipment, preparing samples, documenting work, and analyzing results. Some biological technicians may even conduct fieldwork. This field will grow about 7% between 2020 and 2030.

REGISTERED NURSE

"Temporary nursing positions offer the perfect time management solution for professionals who are going back to school to earn an advanced degree or pursue a particular specialty."

Temporary jobs in nursing offer a great way for these health care professionals to avoid burnout and manage their work-life balance. Temporary nursing positions offer the perfect time-management solution for professionals who are going back to school to advance their degrees or pursue a particular specialty. Registered nurses can find work in physicians' offices, hospitals, nursing care facilities, and home health care facilities. The BLS anticipates growth of 9% between 2020 and 2030.

TOOL AND DIE MAKER

As a tool and die maker, you'll construct metal forms or precision tools that are used to shape, form, and cut materials. These workers may produce gauges, fixtures, jigs, and other tools. This job can encompass everything from reading the blueprints to polishing finished parts. Job opportunities should increase by approximately 7% by 2030.

ELECTRICAL ENGINEER

Electrical engineers work with electrical equipment to solve problems, test functionality, design solutions, and develop improvements. Electrical engineers typically work with a project manager throughout the production process to ensure that they properly coordinated all efforts with other teams on the job site. Electrical engineering opportunities will increase by about 7% by 2030.

HUMAN RESOURCE SPECIALIST

Human resource specialists help companies with interviewing, hiring, and onboarding new employees. This may include verifying references, scheduling interviews, and organizing new employee orientation. HR specialists may also assist existing employees by handling payroll, benefits programs, and paperwork. The BLS expects a 10% growth for this career by 2030.

PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT

Physician assistants work alongside physicians, surgeons, and other medical professionals. As a physician assistant, you may record patient histories, perform initial examinations, order tests, diagnose conditions, and provide treatment. You can find work in a variety of areas, including surgery, psychiatry, family medicine, and emergency medicine. The BLS expects this career to grow 31% by 2030.

If you're interested in short-term work with the flexibility to maintain an ideal work-life balance, high-paying temp jobs like these may offer just what you need. Set up email alerts for the positions that fit your experience and expertise so you'll never miss out on a prime work opportunity.

OFFICE ETIQUETTE RULES FOR EMPLOYEES

 

THESE 12 OFFICE ETIQUETTE TIPS CAN HELP YOU ADJUST TO A NEW OFFICE OR CLEAN UP YOUR BEHAVIOR IN A PLACE YOU'VE WORKED FOR YEARS.

Learning these office etiquette rules for employees can help you adapt to a new office and new co-workers or improve your relationships with your existing co-workers. In some ways, today's work environments are more casual and relaxed than they were in the past. In other ways, people are more likely to become offended if others don't act in a professional way. Here are some tips you can use to get along well with co-workers and supervisors and advance your career.

STAY OFF SOCIAL MEDIA

People can view your social media posts from years ago, and what's acceptable can change over time. Posts that were perfectly fine when you made them could become offensive later, because of recent current events or changes to laws. It's a good idea to set your social media accounts to private or friends only. That way, an employer won't decide not to hire or promote you because they don't like one of your past social media posts.

Before you post on social media, think carefully about how people might react to the post in the future. Avoid any statements that could be considered unprofessional or offensive. It's also a good idea to avoid surfing social media, especially while you're at work. There are many ways that you can spend your time more effectively, increasing your productivity and performance.

TAKE PHONE CALLS IN PRIVATE

Most people have cell phones, and getting an occasional personal call at work is normal. However, you should avoid taking these calls at your desk and letting others hear your personal business. Instead, take a brief walk outside or go to an empty conference room. That way, you can talk privately without disturbing other people who want to concentrate on their work.

DON'T GOSSIP ABOUT OTHERS

Gossiping about other people often says more about you than those you discuss. When you speculate about the personal lives of others or spread rumors that may not be true, you show people that you can't be trusted to keep a confidence. You could even hurt your chances for a promotion. When others gossip, don't participate.

In some ways, today's work environments are more casual and relaxed than they were in the past. In other ways, people are more likely to become offended if others don't act in a professional way.

WATCH YOUR LANGUAGE

Avoid cursing at the office, no matter how laid-back your co-workers seem. Also, avoid songs with lots of cursing or graphic language. It's OK to wear headphones to listen to this type of music occasionally, but don't make them a constant fixture on your head. That way, you can respond immediately if someone needs to talk to you or you get a phone call.

KNOCK BEFORE ENTERING

Whether you're entering a conference room or a co-worker's cubicle, it's polite to knock before you go in. That way, you can avoid interrupting or distracting people. Others will also be more likely to remember to knock when they enter your personal space.

STAY HOME IF YOU FEEL SICK

Even if you tested negative for COVID-19, working from home can be a good idea if you don't feel 100%. It gives you a chance to rest, recuperate, and avoid spreading germs to others. Working from home can often be quieter, more comfortable, and less distracting than working in the office.

USE SOCIAL DISTANCING

While COVID-19 isn't as widespread as it was during the height of the pandemic, it's still around. You can help protect others and prevent the spread of COVID-19 by wearing a mask while indoors and using social distancing. Before you shake hands with someone or come into other forms of close contact, ask if it's OK. Some people may prefer a friendly wave or an elbow bump instead.

SET REMINDERS FOR VIRTUAL MEETINGS AND CONFERENCE CALLS

For many people, one of the hardest parts about working remotely is remembering to log in to virtual meetings or conference calls. Set a reminder about 15 minutes before each meeting or call is scheduled to start. That way, you'll have time to go to the restroom and work out any issues with your computer software, webcam, microphone, or other equipment.

DRESS PROFESSIONALLY

Even if you're working from home, it's a good idea to dress professionally. That way, you'll be prepared if there's a last-minute virtual meeting. Pajamas might be comfy, but they can look very unprofessional. It can also be pretty embarrassing when you get out of your chair to grab a drink or pet your dog and everyone sees that you're not wearing pants.

WORK IN A QUIET, NEUTRAL PLACE

When you work from home, set up in a spare room where you can stay away from distractions. Sit with a blank wall or a bookshelf behind you to keep pets or family members from wandering into your webcam's view. If you have a child, consider using child care, hiring a nanny or babysitter, or getting help from a spouse. That way, you won't have to try to work and take care of your child at the same time.

Whether you work in a large office or a small business, etiquette matters. These office etiquette rules for employees can make getting along with others and working as a team easier. If you're looking for a new job, create a profile on CareerBuilder to find a new position faster.

THE 10 MOST MOBILE PROFESSIONS TO PURSUE IF YOU WANT TO TRAVEL

 

IF YOUR WANDERLUST IS GETTING THE BEST OF YOU, EXPLORE SOME OF THE MOST MOBILE PROFESSIONS THAT YOU CAN TAKE ON FROM ALMOST ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD YOU ARE.

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit and millions of employees went remote, companies started to recognize the value of offering flexible work arrangements. While some workers have returned to their jobs at the office, many others have remained remote permanently. As a result, workers across various industries have traveled the globe and relocated to new areas since they no longer feel tied to a specific location for work. If your wanderlust is getting the best of you, explore some of the most mobile professions you can do from anywhere.

Workers across various industries have traveled the globe and relocated to new areas since they no longer feel tied to a specific location for work.

NURSE

If you have a nursing degree, you can travel and work in places other than where you currently live. Traveling nursing is often in high demand, with positions available around the globe. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), experts expect the registered nursing profession to grow by about 9% between 2020 and 2030. This growth translates to more than a quarter of a million positions becoming available.

Travelers can find short-term positions in new places, working for a few weeks or months. If you want to remain in one location for longer, you may qualify for a contract position that allows you to work for up to 12 months. In some countries, nurses make more money, making traveling nursing a potentially lucrative career opportunity. Use CareerBuilder to create a profile so employers can find you and connect regarding nursing positions.

TEACHER

Teachers can work in other countries, especially if they're willing to teach English as a second language (ESL). People located all over the globe want and need to learn English, and they're often willing to pay high rates to make that happen. Depending on where you plan to teach, you may need to complete the teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL) certification. ESL teachers working in the Middle East and Asia tend to earn the most money.

TOUR GUIDE

You can explore different countries and introduce the areas to others when working as a tour guide, a mobile profession for people who want to travel. Tour guides take individuals and tour groups on outings, ranging from simple walking tours to adventurous excursions. Your interests and knowledge of the area in which you plan to live will dictate the type of tour guide you can be. To be a successful tour guide, you should feel comfortable interacting with people from different cultures and have an outgoing, warm personality.

CRUISE SHIP STAFF MEMBER

Working on a cruise ship allows you to travel all over the world. Some jobs require specific skills, such as being an entertainer, but others are open to entry-level people willing to work hard. Some roles available to workers with wanderlust include housekeeping, serving, and child care.

MEDICAL BILLING SPECIALIST

A medical billing specialist can work for an insurance company, a health care organization, or a treatment center. The primary duties include data entry, invoice preparation, and medical billing coding to request payment for treatments and procedures rendered to patients. Since a medical billing specialist can work remotely, an individual can perform this role almost anywhere. However, it typically requires completing a high school diploma or associate's degree, along with proven knowledge of billing codes and practices.

• Did you know? The estimated growth rate for a job as a medical billing specialist is 9%, which translates to an increase of 37,100 jobs between 2020 and 2030. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics includes medical billing specialists under its medical records and health information specialists category.

RECRUITER

A recruiter works in an organization's human resources department and helps find and bring on new talent. Recruiters often spend time researching potential candidates, searching for qualified individuals to apply for open positions, and performing interviews. A recruiter may need to work during certain hours based on the needs of the organization and the time zone(s) in which it operates.

• Did you know? The estimated growth rate for a job as a recruiter is 10%, which translates to more than 70,00 jobs opening up by 2030. Since recruiters are part of the HR department, they fall under the human resources specialist category of the BLS.

FREELANCE WRITER

A freelance writer creates copy and written content for various clients and earns an income by charging an hourly, per-word, or per-project rate. Some freelance writers work in contract roles but are not full-time or part-time employees of any company. Working in this role requires strong writing skills, exemplary grammar, and the ability to proofread your work. You might have to demonstrate your skills with a portfolio of writing samples.

Working as a freelance writer is flexible, as long as you have a steady internet connection and a device you can use to create content. You will face deadlines, so staying on top of due dates and submitting work on time will help you maintain your client base and continue to get new work.

• Did you know? The writing field should increase by 9% between 2020 and 2030, increasing by about 12,000 jobs, according to the BLS.

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Working as a graphic designer involves creating visual pieces, including logos, advertisements, emails, marketing materials, and product designs. This role requires strong digital and print design skills, the ability to code, and an eye for engaging and visually appealing design elements. Like freelance writing, freelance graphic design roles have deadlines that individuals must adhere to if they want to keep getting work. In-house graphic designers might need to work in an office, but in most cases, this role is conducive to remote work.

EDITOR

An editor proofreads and corrects written content and copy. Editors might work directly with writers to review their content, or they may work for organizations that produce materials and want to ensure that everything they put out is accurate and professional. In the digital age, individuals can edit in a remote environment since collaborators can share most content digitally through content management systems or email platforms.

Although the demand for editors remains high, thanks to a huge need for content, the BLS reports that the job growth for this role is slower than average. An editor must adhere to deadlines and demonstrate experience and education.

TRANSLATOR

Translators interpret written and spoken words in one language and convert them to another. Some translators work directly with people to interpret conversations in multiple languages, while others work independently to translate written text on behalf of others. A translator must be fluent in two or more languages and feel comfortable speaking and writing in both.

The translator role lends itself to those with wanderlust because it's often helpful in places where the population speaks more than one language. For example, someone traveling to Europe might be able to translate written and spoken words between English and German, Swedish, Italian, Finnish, Dutch, Danish, or another language spoken in one of the countries.

If the idea of being stuck in an office doesn't appeal to you, consider one of the above mobile professions you can do from anywhere. Each offers unique opportunities to see the world and explore new places.

SUCCESSFULLY REAPPLYING TO A COMPANY AFTER REJECTION

 

ARE YOU WONDERING IF YOU CAN REAPPLY FOR A JOB AFTER BEING REJECTED? THE ANSWER IS YES! LEARN HOW TO STAND OUT THE SECOND TIME AROUND.

So you've been rejected. Though it's disappointing to get the no-go for a job you're coveting, a rejection doesn't always signal the end of the road. Hiring managers are usually more than happy to reconsider a previous candidate under the right circumstances. Understanding when and how to reapply for a job after being rejected is key. Taking a thoughtful approach to this situation will help you position yourself well for success on your second go. Here's how to reapply for a job after being rejected.

EVALUATE YOUR LAST ATTEMPT

Carefully consider why you didn't get the job. If you had an interview, you may find some clues in that conversation. Think about whether the hiring manager inquired about particular skills or expertise that you were lacking. Review the job posting and compare it to your resume to look for areas where you may need to bolster your skill set.

If the company features employee profiles on its website, you may even have the opportunity to evaluate the individual that they hired. Check out their online profiles and see how their skill set and work history compares to your own. Take an honest approach to the areas where you're lacking so you'll know how to shore up your resume for the next attempt.

KNOW WHEN TO TRY AGAIN

If you didn't get an interview, you can continue to apply with the company as soon as another appropriate position becomes available. It's possible that your resume didn't even make it through the applicant tracking system and you got an automated rejection without ever reaching the hiring manager. If this is the case, it's especially important to adjust your resume and work on keyword use so you'll get an interview on your next attempt.

If you interviewed for the position, it's best to wait three to six months before you apply again. This gives you adequate time to build your skill set, gain new expertise, and make a solid case for why you're better equipped for the job now than you were before. If there's a significant change to your credentials, such as a newly completed degree, you may consider reapplying sooner.

REACH OUT TO OTHER EMPLOYEES

If possible, make connections with other employees at the company. Established employees may have valuable insights into why you didn't get the job. If you're well qualified for the position, you may want to consider the company culture. Speaking to someone within the company can yield great insights into things like dress code, beliefs, values, and behavior. Understanding an organization's culture may help you tailor your resume to better suit the company's vision and mission. This type of information will also prove invaluable in the interview, where hiring managers assess your cultural fit with the company in person.

RECONNECT WITH THE HIRING MANAGER

It's always a favorable position when an applicant is on the mind of an HR professional involved with recruiting because they constantly have visibility and support requests to fill roles.

If you previously interviewed with the company, it's a good idea to reconnect with the hiring manager before you reapply. When you see that a new position is available within the company, contact the hiring manager directly to remind them that your resume is on file and you're still interested in working with the organization. Mention any progress that you've made since the last time you interviewed with the company. If there are significant changes to your resume, you can offer an updated document that provides a more accurate overview of your skills and experience.

Joshua Siva, co-author of "BOLD: Get Noticed, Get Hired," notes that "It's always a favorable position when an applicant is on the mind of an HR professional involved with recruiting because they constantly have visibility and support requests to fill roles." Checking in periodically with this individual is a great way to stay at the top of the pile when new opportunities arise.

ADJUST YOUR APPROACH

Upload a new resume and cover letter before you reapply for a job after being rejected. It's important for potential employers to see that you've not been idle between applications. Your updated resume should highlight new skills or experiences that you've gained since you last reached out.

When you take a mindful approach and make the appropriate changes, you can successfully reapply for a job after being rejected and make a great impression on the company. Emphasize your passion for working within this particular company and focus on how you've built your skill set since your last interview. Your dedication may finally earn you a place in that coveted office.