Finding a new job can be hard, but you might be making mistakes that are making it even more difficult.
There are things recruiters know that will make them reject your resume or not grant you an interview. Or maybe you already accepted an offer but could have negotiated a better salary to help boost your bank account.
Whatever the case, here are a few reasons you may not have gotten that job, even if you thought you nailed the interview or had a killer resume.
Resolve $10,000 or more of your debt
National Debt Relief could help you resolve your credit card debt with an affordable plan that works for you. Just tell them your situation, then find out your debt relief options.1 <p>Clients who complete the program and settle all debts typically save around 45% before fees or 20% including fees over 24–48 months, based on enrolled debts. “Debt-free” applies only to enrolled credit cards, personal loans, and medical bills. Not mortgages, car loans, or other debts. Average program completion time is 24–48 months; not all debts are eligible, and results vary as not all clients complete the program due to factors like insufficient savings. We do not guarantee specific debt reductions or timelines, nor do we assume debt, make payments to creditors, or offer legal, tax, bankruptcy, or credit repair services. Consult a tax professional or attorney as needed. Services are not available in all states. Participation may adversely affect your credit rating or score. Nonpayment of debt may result in increased finance and other charges, collection efforts, or litigation. Read all program materials before enrolling. National Debt Relief’s fees are based on a percentage of enrolled debt. All communications may be recorded or monitored for quality assurance. In certain states, additional disclosures and licensing apply. ©️ 2009–2025 National Debt Relief LLC. National Debt Relief (NMLS #1250950, CA CFL Lic. No. 60DBO-70443) is located at 180 Maiden Lane, 28th Floor, New York, NY 10038. All rights reserved. <b><a href="https://www.nationaldebtrelief.com/licenses/">Click here</a></b> for additional state-specific disclosures and licensing information.</p>
They're waiting on their first choice
It can be difficult to wait around and get an answer from a recruiter about whether a company is going to help you get ahead financially by offering you a job.
You may even wonder why they're dragging their feet when you felt so good about the interview process.
But the truth is that you may be their second choice. It's not a bad position to be in — after all, they could've rejected you outright. You may still have a chance if you find yourself in this boat.
They just didn't like you
You may go in with the best of intentions when discussing your latest work and your previous experience. These qualities can be great assets when it comes to what you could do in the position.
But you'll also be working with people in the office on a personal level. So, you may end up getting rejected because they don't see you fitting in with the culture or your potential co-workers.
The job was filled internally
Some companies may already have a candidate in mind for the position before they even ask you to come in for an interview.
Your potential boss may already be mentoring someone internally to take over the job or are more familiar with the work of an internal employee who understands the culture and business.
The good news is that the company may still want you to come in for an interview to talk to you and could remember you for a later opening.
- 18-29
- 30-39
- 40-49
- 50-59
- 60-69
- 70-79
- 80+
Your social media posts sunk you
You may like to joke around with friends on social media or post pictures when you're out having a good time, but your friends aren't the only ones looking at your latest posts.
A recruiter could also be checking out your online history to determine what kind of potential employee you might be, and they may not be impressed.
Recruiters may be in the dark too
A recruiter may work hard to get your resume in front of the right people or get you into an interview with a client. Many earn a bonus by finding potential candidates or getting you the job.
If a company decides to go with another candidate, it may not tell you why, and it may not tell the recruiter why, either.
It can be difficult to walk away without an answer or any feedback to work with but know that the recruiter may also be in the dark.
You could've asked for a higher salary
You may be worried that asking for a high salary may be a bad thing and will make you look appealing to potential employers. But asking for a good salary is not a bad thing, and you may just be able to get it.
If you're negotiating a salary, it may be a good idea to talk to a recruiter and others in the field. See what they consider a fair rate and how much you can negotiate to land the salary you want.
The company isn't doing well
A company may need a recruiter to find good candidates for open positions. But they may also use a recruiter to cover up issues with excessive departures due to bad working conditions or financial issues.
Do your research before you accept an interview from a recruiter to make sure you have a clear understanding of the business. Find out what's going on behind the scenes that inspired them to open the position.
You're a freelancer
Freelance work may be a good way to take on new projects from different clients while building a portfolio on your schedule. Some companies, however, may see freelancing as a decision you had to make because you couldn't land a full-time position.
If you're worried about getting a full-time job after freelancing, consider looking for full-time work with one of your clients.
You can also build up your references with different clients to put your best self forward when you get to that portion of your interview process.
Your references weren't great
If you get far enough along in the process, a potential employer may ask you for references.
It's a good idea to have a list of cultivated references prepared and make sure they are aware that they could be asked about your work.
It's also a good idea to know what you're references are going to say. You may want to talk to them before you give recruiters their information to see if you're on the same page and if they're still willing to be a reference.
Earn as much as $1K doing simple online tasks
A company called Freecash has compiled all sorts of quick cash tasks from about a dozen advertisers and market research companies thirsty for more data. Freecash has paid out over $13 million to users since 2019, and has over 50,000 five-star reviews on Trustpilot.
Sign up here to see how much you could earn.
They talked to references you didn't list
Recruiters may be well-connected in your particular field, or some might even reach out through LinkedIn or other networking sites to people you may work with at your current office.
So while you may have glowing official references, your current co-workers may not feel the same way about your work. Always put your best foot forward in your office regardless of whether you're going to use a person as a reference or not.
You may be surprised how a little extra leg work at your current job could help you land a new job at a new company.
Bottom line
Update your resume regularly so you're prepared for any potential job opportunities. Remember to add keywords that will catch the eye of a recruiter.
It may also be a good idea to create a budget so you know how much money to ask for if you want to lower your financial stress.
Subscribe Today
Learn how to make an extra $200
Get vetted side hustles and proven ways to earn extra cash sent to your inbox.