I am always asked by students, “Should we ask for feedback from the interview and assessment centres if we are unsuccessful?” The answer from me is a simple one: yes.
Why Every Rejection Is a Learning Opportunity
Try to view every application and interview as a learning opportunity. Wherever possible, ask the employer for feedback. Many people find this daunting, especially when they are disappointed, but the insight you gain can be incredibly valuable and may make the difference next time.
Aim to request feedback as soon as possible after the interview, while the experience is still fresh in the recruiter’s mind. This increases your chances of receiving something specific and useful.
Few applicants ask for feedback and as a result miss a valuable opportunity to understand how they came across, where they performed well and where they fell short. Even one or two practical pointers can help you improve your interview technique and strengthen future applications.
How to Ask for Feedback the Right Way
Start by thanking the interviewer or recruiter for considering your application and for taking the time to meet you. It helps to begin with something positive about the interview or assessment process, as this shows professionalism and appreciation.
Remain positive and enthusiastic about the role. You may want to apply to the same organisation again in the future, so it is important to leave a good impression. You can mention that you were disappointed, but make it clear that this particular role genuinely interested you, rather than sounding as though it was just one of many applications.
Let them know that you would be interested in future opportunities and thank them again for their time and feedback. Enthusiasm and courtesy go a long way.
Turning Feedback Into Results
The important next step is to act on the advice you receive. Review and refine your CV, adjust how you word applications and make changes to your interview preparation and technique. Practising with this feedback in mind can significantly improve your performance.
Progress is usually about building on what already works, not discarding your strengths. It is also about understanding the impression you make at the beginning of an interview and the one you leave at the end. Repeating the same approach and hoping for a different outcome rarely leads to success, but small, positive changes often do.
A Skill That Lasts Beyond the Interview
Seeking feedback is not just useful for securing a role, it is also an important workplace skill. Being open to feedback, identifying areas for improvement and taking action will support your long term career success. So ask for feedback, take it on board and use it when applying for placements and summer internships or graduate jobs.