Taking "No" for an Answer: Lessons from the Job Search Journey

I recently had the pleasure of chatting with a young person just starting out in the workforce. We covered a lot of ground, but their biggest concern was a tough one: how do you handle rejection after a job interview? It’s a question that hits home for anyone who’s ever heard a polite “thanks, but no thanks” after putting their heart into the process.

Having been through more interviews than I can count—some so warm and welcoming they felt like catching up with an old friend, and others as stressful as dodging bullets in a timed firing squad—I’ve learned that rejection isn’t the end of the story. The most valuable lesson I can share? You’ve got to be yourself in the interview, not the version of yourself you think they’re looking for.

Be Authentically You

It’s tempting to shape-shift in an interview, to give answers tailored to what you think the interviewer wants to hear. But here’s the truth: if you land a job by pretending to be someone else, you’re setting yourself up for misery. The best jobs—the ones where you thrive—are the ones where you get hired for being you. If they don’t see your value, then that job wasn’t the right fit, plain and simple.

It reminds me of something my wife often says. She talks about “high vibration” and “low vibration” people—a concept that sounds a little out there at first but makes a lot of sense when you break it down. High-vibration people, she says, attract others who are on the same frequency. They build relationships rooted in respect, understanding, and support. These are the people who show up with open hearts and engage with the world fully present.

And there’s a lot of truth to this debate—just look at our recent election! 😬 When people resonate with leaders, organizations, or ideas that align with their energy, you see a powerful wave of action and connection. High-vibration interactions fuel progress, collaboration, and hope, while low-vibration approaches often create division and stagnation. Whether in politics, workplaces, or personal lives, the energy we bring influences everything.

Rejection Isn’t Personal—It’s Directional

Here’s the thing about rejection: it’s not a reflection of your worth. It’s redirection. Maybe you didn’t land this job because there’s something better waiting for you, or maybe the timing wasn’t right. Every “no” you face teaches you something—whether it’s a lesson about how you present yourself, how to refine your answers, or even just how to stay resilient.

And let’s not sugarcoat it—sometimes rejection isn’t about you at all. As an American of Hispanic descent, I’ve experienced bigotry and racism in the job search process. In fact, during the final interview for a prominent role a few years back, an interviewer told me they were surprised by my last name because I didn’t “look Spanish.” There’s no excuse for ignorance, but it was a reminder of the barriers some of us face.

In many of the organizations I’ve been a part of—and even in some interviews—I’ve been the only Hispanic person in the room. While I’ve never seen this as a hindrance, my goal has always been to show up as the best Brian I can be, regardless of my ethnicity. At the same time, I’m not naïve. Systemic racism does exist. But I’ve made a choice: I will never let it stand in my way. I’ve learned to recognize those moments for what they are and to focus on moving forward.

Empowering Young Workers: A Storyteller’s Reward

As someone deeply involved in workforce development storytelling, I can say without hesitation that one of the most rewarding aspects of this work is empowering young workers. There’s something incredibly fulfilling about being part of someone’s journey to success, knowing that the seeds you help plant today could grow into thriving careers tomorrow.

When you’re in the business of helping people—especially those just starting out—you become a chapter in their story. You’re not just telling tales of success; you’re creating them. Whether it’s guiding a young person through the job search process, helping them see their unique value, or simply offering encouragement when rejection feels overwhelming, you’re leaving a lasting imprint.

What’s especially meaningful is knowing that your efforts can ripple far beyond that one individual. When you help someone land their first meaningful job, you’re also helping their family, community, and even future generations. It’s not just about filling positions; it’s about empowering people to find their purpose and contribute in ways that are impactful and fulfilling.

And here’s the best part: you will forever be a part of their success. When they look back on their career, they’ll remember the people who believed in them, who guided them, and who helped them take that first leap. That’s a powerful legacy to leave behind, and it’s what drives me to keep showing up every day, ready to tell the next story and inspire the next wave of dreamers and doers.

The Power of Presence

When you’re on the job hunt, remember to stay present and engaged in every interaction. Don’t let a previous rejection—or someone else’s bias—cloud your confidence or dampen your enthusiasm. Show up with curiosity, an open heart, and a willingness to connect. Interviewers can sense when someone is genuinely invested versus just going through the motions.

Final Thought

Rejection is part of the process, not the end of the road. If you’re true to yourself, you’ll attract the opportunities that align with who you are and what you bring to the table. The right job will come along, and when it does, it will feel less like dodging bullets and more like stepping into a space where you truly belong.

So keep showing up, keep being yourself, and keep those vibrations high. The job that’s waiting for you will be worth every “no” you had to hear along the way. And when you face barriers, whether they’re systemic or personal, remember: your resilience and authenticity are your greatest strengths. Let them guide you to where you’re meant to be—and let the stories you help write for others inspire the next generation of success.