Embracing Rejection: A Path to Growth for Law Students

Dear Mr Chaggar,

Thank you for your recent application for the position of ______.

Following careful consideration, we regret to let you know that we will not be taking your application further on this occasion.

Unfortunately, due to the high volume of applications we are receiving for our vacancies it is not possible to provide individual feedback on applications at this stage.

~

For many law students like me, emails like the one above are commonplace, and it can be disheartening to receive rejection after rejection, particularly when there are little to no opportunities for feedback. However, embracing these rejections can be a powerful catalyst for personal and professional growth and resilience.

In Ryan Holiday’s book, ‘The Obstacle is the Way,´ he offers a perspective that encourages us to view rejection as an important part of our journey towards finding our calling:

“Failure shows us the way—by showing us what isn’t the way.” – Ryan Holiday, The Obstacle is the Way (2014).

What is Resilience?

Resilience is a term often used by career advisors and recruiters, but what does it actually mean?

Resilience is defined by the Oxford English Dictionary as “the capacity to recover quickly from difficulties.” By trying to see rejection as a building block rather than a setback, it can help you to develop a resilience that will serve you throughout your career. Resilience is not just about bouncing back: it’s about understanding that every “no” is a part of the process that leads to a different “yes“.

Whilst individual feedback from employers is rare, self-reflection can be a powerful tool. Sometimes, taking a step back or time away from an application can be as helpful as viewing something for the first time. It is easy to overlook our own mistakes when we know what we are trying to say. When met with a rejection, be kind to yourself, take some time to collect your thoughts, and then further review your application carefully. By viewing rejection as an opportunity to learn, you can make steady improvements with each new application you complete.

It’s easy to lose motivation after receiving multiple rejections, but focusing on maintaining a positive mindset is crucial. Celebrate small victories along the way—whether it’s completing an application, progressing to the next stage or even securing an interview. These milestones are evidence of your progress and resilience.

Connecting with legal professionals can also help with your applications. Attending legal events, such as those hosted by Birmingham Solicitors’ Group can help you to build relationships with people who have been in the same position as you. Through networking, you may be able to secure mentorship, which can also provide encouragement and guidance when you face setbacks.

Finding the right graduate role is a marathon, not a sprint. Keeping your long-term career goals in sight can help you stay focused and motivated. Each rejection is just one chapter in your much longer career story. By staying positive and persistent, you are laying the groundwork for a successful and rewarding career in law.

In conclusion, whilst rejection is an inevitable part of the job hunt, it does not define your worth or potential as a future legal professional. Embrace each rejection as a stepping stone towards growth and learning. Keep pushing forward, refining your approach, and believing in your abilities. Your persistence and positivity will ultimately lead you to the right opportunity.

Finally, you may find the below resources, by former BSG Chair Chrissie Wolfe and legal influencer Simranjeet Kaur Mann, useful for preparing for your next application!

https://youtu.be/Tt-REmA3uog?si=c74qVSDjGxrMEwPN – Chrissie Wolfe

https://youtu.be/sfYSShO8CPQ?si=9gb8A43vktrwGST3 – Chrissie Wolfe

https://youtu.be/D3zeQfTKqM4?si=o0AIa3YycgLhwqla – Simranjeet Kaur Mann