Get Premium
Dark mode theme is available exclusively for premium users. Learn more about the benefits of subscribing.
No fees, cancel anytime.
Dark Mode 
No fees, cancel anytime 
then open in external browser
and click "Open in External Browser" 
“Rejected In 5 Minutes”: 35 People Share The Most Unhinged Job Rejections They Were Unfortunate Enough To Receive
Interview
Job hunting is one of the toughest jobs there is. It requires both skill and luck, with an infinite amount of positive attitude which keeps you going through piles of motivation letters and hours of interviews.
The truth is, job seekers are much more likely to receive a rejection letter rather than congratulations. No matter how good they are, sometimes it’s just not a match.
But never underestimate the way that hiring managers tell the sad news to their rejected applicants. While some provide genuinely helpful feedback and motivate you in your search, others do the exact opposite.
Today we look at the most infuriating and wild rejection letters, emails, and messages that make you kind of happy for these people who got away without a job there.
This post may include affiliate links.
#1
It's Brutal Out Here
A Bi-Cycle 2 years ago
Here’s a translation: “we didn’t like how you stood up for yourself and didn’t mindlessly submit so we’re not hiring you.”
To find out more about job rejections, as well as why so many candidates are ghosted by recruiters, we spoke with Dr. Gleb Tsipursky, the CEO of Disaster Avoidance Experts and best-selling author of seven books, including a global bestseller Never Go With Your Gut: How Pioneering Leaders Make the Best Decisions and Avoid Business Disasters (Career Press, 2019), who shared some interesting insights.
RELATED:
#2
"Elizabeth, *wink* *wink*" Slew Me
Brittania Kelli 2 years ago
I need to meet this Mr. Jones, pretty sure he's my soul mate. eBay feedback as a reference, just brilliant.
#3
Rejected From An Internship For Not Having Enough Experience
BewilderedBanana 2 years ago
It is indeed an oxymoron, unlike the person who sent you that email who is simply a moron
Dr. Gleb explained that the worst way to reject a job candidate is to not provide any feedback or communication at all, leaving the candidate wondering about the outcome of their application. “This lack of professionalism can harm the company's reputation and cause frustration for the candidate. It is always better to provide a timely and respectful rejection notice, even if it is brief, so that the candidate can move forward in their job search,” he said.
#4
Ph.d. Maths Student Rejected For Not Show Not Having 3 Hours Of Calc On Their Transcript
#5
Did They Want You To Get A Pager Also?
#6
Actress Is Rejected A Role For Being Deaf, However They Ask Her To Teach The Chosen Actress How To Act Deaf
There are a variety of reasons why a candidate can be ghosted, including high volume of applicants. Dr. Gleb explained that “When dealing with a large number of applicants, it can be challenging for recruiters to respond individually to each one, especially if they lack the resources or staff.”
Sometimes, applicants never hear back from the recruiters due to the time constraints. “Recruiters may prioritize filling open positions over providing feedback to unsuccessful candidates, as they are often under pressure to find the right candidate quickly.”
In other cases, legal concerns may be at play. “Some recruiters may avoid providing feedback to avoid potential legal issues, such as discrimination claims or misunderstandings about the reasons for rejection.”
#7
Company Asking For Feedback On Their Recruitment Process While Not Giving Me Feedback On Why I Was Rejected:
#8
Cluckin' Delighted
#9
Wait What
RafCo (he/him/ele) 2 years ago
I got rejected for a job where one of the listed required technologies was one I was partially responsible for creating (there are about 30 contributors to this project)
Last but not least, the organizational culture can be the reason why an applicant is ghosted by the company they applied to. Dr. Gleb argues that the company's culture might not prioritize or value communication with unsuccessful candidates and that’s why candidate ghosting occurs.
The good news is that it is possible to reduce the chances of being ghosted as a candidate. Dr. Gleb’s advice is to not forget a follow-up. “Send a follow-up email a week or two after submitting the application or completing an interview, as it may prompt a response from the recruiter.”
Being proactive is also the way to go. “Keep in touch with the recruiter throughout the application process, without being overly persistent.”
#10
This Was My Rejection Email From Meta. “Meta Is A Great Company”??? I’ve Never Seen A Recruiter This Disrespectful And Unprofessional
#11
Seriously?
#12
Oops
RowdieAngel 2 years ago
my former brother in law left his position as a literal rocket scientist - that he excelled at, per their consistent feedback- because he was having to relocate for personal reasons. circumstances changed and he ended up not having to move and applied for his as yet unfilled position. only to get rejected for not having enough experience. to fill HIS position 🙄
Dr. Gleb also stressed the importance of networking. His advice is to establish connections with company employees through LinkedIn or other professional networks, as they may be able to provide updates on the hiring process or put in a good word for you.
And last tip for not getting ghosted as a candidate is to make sure you stand out. “Make your application as strong as possible, highlighting relevant skills and experiences, to increase your chances of making it to the next stage of the hiring process.”
#13
Excuse Me? Huh? Rejected Because Of This?
#15
We're Looking For Some Specific Skills
censorshipsucks 2 years ago
rude, I'd at least tell the candidate to go get one or something...
Often, however, no matter how much you stand out during a job interview, you still get rejected. Job rejections maybe very difficult to handle, especially if the candidate is going above and beyond to make a good impression, prepare for the interview questions, and do everything it takes to get a position.
Dr. Gleb’s advice for dealing with job rejections is to stay positive and to recognize that rejection is a part of the job search process, and not a reflection of your worth as a person or professional.
#16
Come On Man
#17
Rejected From Cat Sitting
#18
Rejection Letter For A Us Remote Job. Company Thought New Mexico Was "International"
“If possible, ask for feedback from the recruiter and use it to improve your application materials and interview skills,” Dr. Gleb said and added that it’s important to “continue to search and apply for jobs that align with your skills, experiences, and interests.”
Moreover, Dr. Gleb suggests expanding your network. “Use this opportunity to meet new people, attend industry events, or join professional organizations to increase your visibility in the job market.”
Last but not least, advice on dealing with job rejection is to consider alternative paths. “Reevaluate your career goals and explore different industries or roles that may be more suited to your skills and interests.”
#19
Ouch
#20
Block Them
#21
Not As Inspiring As They Probably Hoped
Ponypower 2 years ago
Well... it kinda seems like one of the better rejection letters I have seen.
Ron Baza 2 years ago (edited)
It’s the rejection letter equivalent of a 50-year-old man wearing all-denim and a sideways baseball cap.
Load More Replies...
RafCo (he/him/ele) 2 years ago
I'd add that they're basically saying "we're making a big mistake here"
Shelli Aderman 2 years ago
My father’s first name is Richard. He’s gone by, “D**k” his whole life. IT’S ALSO A NAME! 🤦🏽♀️
Matthew Fox 2 years ago
Jordan was suspended (not cut) from his HS basketball team for academic reasons, if I remember correctly.
Anyone-for-tea? 2 years ago
I’d be thinking, I’m here just to try and pay my mortgage, not change the world…
Lesley Zed 2 years ago
Not to forget at age 16 a drama teacher told a young man that he couldn’t act and would never get anywhere in the business. That guy with all the self belief and inner strength is Keanu Reeves! Ever heard of him?😉👍🏻❤️
SparkleFarts 2 years ago
I love that BP censored a dudes name lmao. Like it's short for Richard ffs
Brendan (banned for downvotes) 2 years ago
I quite like this letter. It's actually very thoughtful.
#22
Rejected In 5 Minutes
#23
Thanks I Guess
#24
If You Apply Using A Cv You'll Be Automatically Rejected 🙄🙄
Happy Quokka 2 years ago (edited)
We did something similar by specifically asking for CVs in PDF. At least half people ignored it and attached a Word document (and yes, this was an office position where it was perfectly reasonable to expect that candidates know how to handle this).
#25
So I Received An Email About A Role From This Recruiter. I Messaged Back Saying I’m Interested And Then Got This I Reply.....why!!
Auli Riot 2 years ago
Blanket email sent out to anyone with any kind of notes on experience in the field. Recruiters don't even read profiles man, they just send out applications to hundreds and then look into the people the reply. At which point they realise they've asked people that don't have what's needed to fill the job role. Ridiculous.
#26
Josh Wasn't Speaking Financially
#27
Got This Email, Two Months After Actually Starting With The Company
#28
This Rejection I Received After Working On A Take-Home Challenge For A Week. Still Angers Me Today How Rudely They Responded
#29
Saw This Beautiful Rejection On Linkedin!
#30
I Had A Job Interview That I Was Rejected From. I Have 4 Years Experience. Does This Read Like It's Minimizing My Experience?
I almost had a stroke reading it. The icing on top of the cake was during my interview with the manager and him telling me "there's always more jobs out there!" before the call ended. I knew I wasn't picked from that line alone.
#31
Seriously?
#32
We Rejected You Because You Didn’t Send A Thank You Note
Aidan Campbell 2 years ago
We are the ones who took time from our day, sorted out our suit and had to pay for transport to get there.
#33
Thank You For The Personalized Rejection
#34
Nice. Rejection Email Six Months After Applying. Reasonable Timeframe To Get Back To An Applicant, Don't You Think?
ShaZam Beaubien 2 years ago
Unfortunately, corporations never responds quickly. The best candidates are lost based on their time-frame of hiring someone.
#35
I Literally Applied Over Two Years Ago
i_like_boats 2 years ago
two years? that’s just stupid. What were those guys doing? Performing a two-year-long cave ritual on an island in Norway?
#36
Getting Rejected For A Job Makes You More Likley To Get A Job
#37
Not That Much Of A Fan
#38
Oh
Ginger Ghost 2 years ago
why tf did they post a picture of a girl with this, is it the gay acquaintance but your a guy so not gay, or just a random girl??
#39
Withdrawing From A Job Application Caused Hr's Brain To Overload And Reject Me Back With A Canned Response
#40
Recruiter Says They’re Unable To “Assist Me” When They Rejected Me Lol
#41
Most Condescending Rejection Letter Ever?
#42
I Was Rejected For This Job With A European Tech Company, And Got Perhaps One Of The Most Pandering And Unprofessional Emails I've Ever Received
Tucker Cahooter 2 years ago
So, rather than a polite rejection letter suggesting there may be opportunities in the future, would OP prefer to get something that just says "F**k off and die"?
#43
I Got This As A Survey After Getting Rejected After Final Round Interview. Just... Wow
#44
No Hard Feelings
Add New Image
What do you think ?
Kill-Bunny 2 years ago
English is not my native language. I was rejected, because "my English is too American" and my future colleagues (90% from India) would not understand me. The interviewers English was so bad, that she just seemed to be making up words and I also had to ask to rephrase questions, because she literally forgot to use verbs in her sentences, but was very proud of her English, that was more English than mine. And that I could applicate again, after leveling my language.
Monday 2 years ago
Jobs are hard to come by in SA at the moment sadly. I doubt it's going to get any easier with all the hits loadshedding must be dealing to the economy.
Load More Replies...
Ivy Ruonakoski 2 years ago
I've never applied to a job that had me fill out a questionnaire or anything like it. Just sent in cv and did an interview. So fricken weird.
Mimi M 2 years ago
Was once desperate for a job. Applied to a bunch of top-tier firms, with personal recommendations from someone else in the field. Got a callback from one of them - I was thrilled. Spent 2 weeks learning about the company and their interview/hiring process. Dressed in my best suit and heels and showed up at the interview. First thing the exec (a very nice guy, btw) told me was 'I'm not sure we have anything for you, but your CV was by far the most fascinating I have ever seen and I just had to meet you'. I don't know who I wanted to kill on the spot - him or myself.
Steve LeMessurier 2 years ago
I finished school recently, change of career for me... finished my practicum, was told how great I did, and that they had a place for me there...and then took a week off.... Then got word I could start in another week...so two weeks vacation after a year of working and school... Went in for a staff meeting, and then 2 days before I was supposed to start I lost the job....before I even started, Was told there were performance issues that other managers had with me..... And I responded "shouldn't that have been brought up during my practicum??.... Which is the whole reason I was there...for 3 months....working for nothing....to learn how to do the job well??.... And no-one brought up any issues they had, or thoughts of how I could do better....ever?? During my time there??.... In fact I got nothing but praise...from everyone?.."
ValdaDeDieu 2 years ago (edited)
Horrible companies. Basically the only thing standing between you and your best idea and talents launched as a competitive, profitable company is funding. If someone would stop funding these gargantuan FAILURES that lose billions and instead, take on some talented entrepreneurs, the world would be a better place.
Leo Domitrix 2 years ago
I love/s/ when employers think wages are a gift. No. Me work, you pay. I did my unpaid time in Covid b/c it was morally correct, not b/c it was *smart* (freely admitted). Now, can't get well-=paid work. Yet some yutz on Youtube who rants about (fill in blank) can make a living?
Kill-Bunny 2 years ago
English is not my native language. I was rejected, because "my English is too American" and my future colleagues (90% from India) would not understand me. The interviewers English was so bad, that she just seemed to be making up words and I also had to ask to rephrase questions, because she literally forgot to use verbs in her sentences, but was very proud of her English, that was more English than mine. And that I could applicate again, after leveling my language.
Monday 2 years ago
Jobs are hard to come by in SA at the moment sadly. I doubt it's going to get any easier with all the hits loadshedding must be dealing to the economy.
Load More Replies... Ivy Ruonakoski 2 years ago
I've never applied to a job that had me fill out a questionnaire or anything like it. Just sent in cv and did an interview. So fricken weird.
Mimi M 2 years ago
Was once desperate for a job. Applied to a bunch of top-tier firms, with personal recommendations from someone else in the field. Got a callback from one of them - I was thrilled. Spent 2 weeks learning about the company and their interview/hiring process. Dressed in my best suit and heels and showed up at the interview. First thing the exec (a very nice guy, btw) told me was 'I'm not sure we have anything for you, but your CV was by far the most fascinating I have ever seen and I just had to meet you'. I don't know who I wanted to kill on the spot - him or myself.
Steve LeMessurier 2 years ago
I finished school recently, change of career for me... finished my practicum, was told how great I did, and that they had a place for me there...and then took a week off.... Then got word I could start in another week...so two weeks vacation after a year of working and school... Went in for a staff meeting, and then 2 days before I was supposed to start I lost the job....before I even started, Was told there were performance issues that other managers had with me..... And I responded "shouldn't that have been brought up during my practicum??.... Which is the whole reason I was there...for 3 months....working for nothing....to learn how to do the job well??.... And no-one brought up any issues they had, or thoughts of how I could do better....ever?? During my time there??.... In fact I got nothing but praise...from everyone?.."
ValdaDeDieu 2 years ago (edited)
Horrible companies. Basically the only thing standing between you and your best idea and talents launched as a competitive, profitable company is funding. If someone would stop funding these gargantuan FAILURES that lose billions and instead, take on some talented entrepreneurs, the world would be a better place.
Leo Domitrix 2 years ago
I love/s/ when employers think wages are a gift. No. Me work, you pay. I did my unpaid time in Covid b/c it was morally correct, not b/c it was *smart* (freely admitted). Now, can't get well-=paid work. Yet some yutz on Youtube who rants about (fill in blank) can make a living?
Related on Bored Panda
