You received a form letter from the Human Resource Department that delivered bad news about the promotion you applied for and perhaps also interviewed for. These letters usually read: “Thank you for your interest in the promotional opportunity at Acme Tools." (There is some fluff about how impressed everyone is with your excellent skills.) But the letter concludes, "We regret to inform you that another candidate has been selected for the position."

Rejection hurts. It is perfectly normal to be disappointed and angry at the people who missed an opportunity to help you advance in your career. If you told your friends about it, you now have to let them know you didn't get the promotion.

Here are some gutsy actions you should consider (Warning: these actions will take courage on your part):

• Call the person who interviewed you and thank him/her for the considering you. Be sure to let him or her know that you would appreciate any feedback they have on how you did during the interview. Ask if there are certain things you need to work on so that you will do better.
• Ask if there are special skills or knowledge can you attain in order to be better prepared if another opportunity becomes available.
• Should another position become available, you would like to be considered for it. (Remember that It is possible the person they hired won't work out and you'd like to be next in line.)
• If the discussion goes well, send a short "Follow-up to rejection” thank you letter or e-mail. Here is an example of what you might want to say;

Dear Mr. Brown:

Thank you again for the opportunity to interview for the Project Manager position. I enjoyed meeting with you and discussing the possibility of joining your team.

Although, I was not selected, I enjoyed our conversation and wish you and the new person every success. Please keep me in mind should another position become available. I would like to be part of your team in the future!

Thank you again for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

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