How to Ask for Feedback After a Job Rejection
Getting rejected stings. But asking for feedback — the right way — can turn that rejection into genuinely useful information for your next interview.
Post-Rejection Feedback Request
Dear [Interviewer / Recruiter Name], Thank you for letting me know about the decision on the [Job Title] role. While I'm disappointed, I appreciate the opportunity to have interviewed with your team. If you have a moment, I would genuinely appreciate any feedback on my interview or application. I'm committed to improving, and even brief insights from your perspective would be valuable. Thank you again for your time and consideration. I wish you and the team all the best. Warm regards, [Your Name]
Suggested Subject Line
Thank You & Feedback Request — [Job Title] Role
Alternative Versions
Gracious & Curious
Hi [Name], Thanks for letting me know. I'm disappointed, but I'm grateful for the experience — your team was genuinely impressive. If you have any insights on where I could improve, I'd love to hear them. Even a sentence or two would mean a lot. No pressure at all. Wishing you and the team the best! [Your Name]
Concise Request
Hi [Name], Thank you for the update. I'd appreciate any brief feedback on my candidacy — what went well and where I could strengthen things. Totally understand if you can't share. Best, [Your Name]
Formal Feedback Request
Dear [Name], Thank you for informing me of your decision. While I am naturally disappointed, I respect the outcome and appreciate the thoroughness of your process. In the interest of professional growth, I would value any feedback you might be able to provide regarding my interview performance or overall candidacy. I understand not all organizations share this information, and I respect that as well. Thank you for the opportunity. With gratitude, [Your Name]
Humble Ask
Hi [Name], I appreciate you taking the time to let me know. I genuinely learned a lot during the process and have a lot of respect for your team. If you're able to share any feedback — even high-level — it would really help me as I continue my search. I promise to take it constructively. Thank you so much, [Your Name]
When to Use This
Send this within 24–48 hours of the rejection. Keep it gracious and specific — you're more likely to get a useful answer if you seem professional and non-defensive. Many companies won't give feedback for legal reasons, so don't take silence personally.
What Not to Say
Don't argue with the decision. Don't demand to know why. Don't say "I thought the interview went great" — it puts them in an awkward position. And don't send this if you're still angry — wait until you can be genuinely curious.