At some point in business you will be rejected, no matter who you are. Oprah Winfrey was told she was “unfit for TV.” Michael Jordan was cut from his high school basketball team. Steve Jobs was fired from Apple! True, famous people are probably rejected less often than we mere mortals. But rejection happens to everyone, in both life and in business.
The question is: How do you handle rejection in business?
Recently, I tried getting information about a women’s executive group I saw advertised on social media. The representative, who contacted me by phone, noted I was “a perfect fit.” Not sure for what though! She immediately pressed me to sign up for a “lifetime membership.” When I asked to have more information sent to me, I was told I was “disqualified.” She then hung up the phone!
Of course I had to laugh. It was obviously a scam. Even so, it had a little sting. (It’s never nice to be hung up on.) It reminded me of more serious rejections in business I had in the past, and how I got over them. Here are three keys to help you deal with the sting of rejection in business:
1. Be Kind To Yourself
What would you tell a friend or colleague who was rejected? You’d say “yes, it’s disappointing, but not the end of the world.” You’d encourage them not to beat up on themselves. Do the same for yourself. Be kind to yourself.
2. Be Fair To Yourself
Most likely you’ve been accepted for your ideas and abilities in the past. (Probably more than you’ve been rejected.) Remind yourself of the successes and the positives. Not every situation works out the way you hope it will. It doesn’t mean you are a disaster.
3. Educate Yourself
Ask yourself what you learned from the situation that will help in the future. Did you make mistakes you could avoid making again? If you suffer a number of rejections and are given the same reason each time, take a step back and look at why. Use rejection to make you stronger.
True, rejection always feels personal. And when your ideas are rejected, it’s hard not to feel it’s you that’s been rejected. But try to view rejection in the workplace as just a setback. Usually, that’s all it is in the long run.
As for that executive women’s group I wanted to join! If I had to do it again, I’d probably research the organization a little more thoroughly before I contacted them. That way I would have realized they were on the shady side and “disqualified” myself before giving them the chance to “disqualify” me!
Schedule a 30 Minute Complimentary Meeting to meet Sandra via phone or video. Find out if you both are a good fit to work together. Come to the call with your questions and what business communications challenges you’d like to get help with.