Feedback after an interview?
Not always worth it.
I get why people ask for it.
You want to learn. Improve. Do better next time.
Totally valid.
But here’s the thing:
Feedback from someone who didn’t hire you isn’t always helpful.
Why? Because Hiring is Highly Subjective
The reason you didn’t get the job often has nothing to do with your skills or your potential.
It could be:
- A better-fit candidate showed up last minute
- Internal hiring politics
- Changing priorities
- Industry-specific experience
- Or just… vibes
None of that means you weren’t qualified.
It just means they went in another direction.
One Manager’s “No” Might Be Another’s “Absolutely Yes”
You might hear:
“We wanted someone with more industry experience.”
Okay… but the next manager might prefer your fresh perspective.
“They had more technical depth.”
Cool. But maybe your soft skills will shine elsewhere.
“You didn’t align with our team dynamic.”
That doesn’t mean you won’t fit perfectly into someone else’s.
Here’s the Truth Most People Miss:
- Most hiring decisions are about who they DID choose, not who they didn’t.
- Feedback often reflects their preference, not your value.
- Chasing feedback after every rejection can lead to overthinking and self-doubt.
It’s a bit like dating:
If someone doesn’t want to date you because of your hobbies, do you change your hobbies?
No. You find someone who loves those hobbies.
So What Should You Do Instead?
- Take a beat. Reflect if there’s a clear area to improve.
- Stay focused on what makes you unique.
- Keep applying where you align and can thrive.
- Don’t let one “No” rewrite your entire playbook.
The right team will value what you bring.
Final Word
If you get actionable, thoughtful feedback—great.
If not? Don’t sweat it. You’re not here to mold yourself into every job.
You’re here to find your fit.
Keep going. You’ve absolutely got this.
Want this formatted into a carousel or social post to encourage others who are navigating the same thing? I’d be happy to help!
