5 answers
Nevaeh
Student
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
2
Questions
Updated
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How do I handle the fear of rejection or failure?
I am often scared to network, ask questions, making mistakes and over all putting myself out there due to the fear of failure or being rejected.
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5 answers
Samantha Brooks
Server Specialist
3
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
Samantha’s Answer
One thing that has helped me is separating the outcome from my self-worth. A rejection can come down to timing, fit, availability, or circumstances I may not see. It does not automatically mean I was not good enough. When I network or ask a question, I focus on what I can control: being prepared, being respectful, and being clear about what I need. After that, I try to let the other person’s response be theirs instead of turning it into a judgment about me.
That shift makes it easier to take healthy risks. I may still feel nervous, but I do not wait for the nerves to disappear before acting. The goal is not to become fearless. It is to make decisions based on what could be gained, not only on what could go wrong. Even when the answer is no, I can walk away with more clarity about what I want and what to try next.
That shift makes it easier to take healthy risks. I may still feel nervous, but I do not wait for the nerves to disappear before acting. The goal is not to become fearless. It is to make decisions based on what could be gained, not only on what could go wrong. Even when the answer is no, I can walk away with more clarity about what I want and what to try next.
Zach Owen
Customer Success Manager
5
Answers
Snohomish, Washington
Updated
Zach’s Answer
Hi Nevaeh,
Facing rejection or not succeeding initially can be tough, but it's a common experience. What's crucial is to ask how you can improve. Whenever I didn't get a job after the final interview, I asked the recruiter what I could have done better compared to others. Always be ready to learn and grow. Even if you're doing well, seek feedback to ensure future success.
Don't hesitate to ask questions! Stay curious, take in all feedback, and use it to move forward.
It might feel uncomfortable to put yourself out there at first, but the more you do it, the easier it becomes. You can also ask for introductions to new people. Remember, everyone started where you are now.
Facing rejection or not succeeding initially can be tough, but it's a common experience. What's crucial is to ask how you can improve. Whenever I didn't get a job after the final interview, I asked the recruiter what I could have done better compared to others. Always be ready to learn and grow. Even if you're doing well, seek feedback to ensure future success.
Don't hesitate to ask questions! Stay curious, take in all feedback, and use it to move forward.
It might feel uncomfortable to put yourself out there at first, but the more you do it, the easier it becomes. You can also ask for introductions to new people. Remember, everyone started where you are now.
Sowanny Mooney
Supply Chain Manager
3
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
Sowanny’s Answer
I am often scared to network, ask questions, making mistakes and over all putting myself out there due to the fear of failure or being rejected.
Hi Navaeh,
Often times we can overestimate the outcome of something and underestimate how resilient we are to face it. This certainly applies to the fear of rejection across social interactions, job applications, and more.
Next time you find yourself being nervous at a networking event, remember that if you're feeling this way it's likely that others are too. Find yourself someone who also may be alone and simply introduce yourself, you'd be amazed at how quickly a conversation can spark.
Regarding fear of rejection for jobs, it's cliche but you miss 100% of the shots you don't take. If you have the opportunity to make it to interview rounds, always ask for feedback after the meeting. You may be surprised that something you thought in your head was awkward could have been totally fine. Remember, your harshest critic will always be your inner-voice.
Practicing facing those uncomfortable feelings will only help you learn how to cope and be resilient in the future.
Hi Navaeh,
Often times we can overestimate the outcome of something and underestimate how resilient we are to face it. This certainly applies to the fear of rejection across social interactions, job applications, and more.
Next time you find yourself being nervous at a networking event, remember that if you're feeling this way it's likely that others are too. Find yourself someone who also may be alone and simply introduce yourself, you'd be amazed at how quickly a conversation can spark.
Regarding fear of rejection for jobs, it's cliche but you miss 100% of the shots you don't take. If you have the opportunity to make it to interview rounds, always ask for feedback after the meeting. You may be surprised that something you thought in your head was awkward could have been totally fine. Remember, your harshest critic will always be your inner-voice.
Practicing facing those uncomfortable feelings will only help you learn how to cope and be resilient in the future.
Wendy Taylor Wampler
Human Resources
6
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
Wendy’s Answer
I can related to this! Even as a seasoned professional, I still get nervous in new situations and find networking particularly challenging. I've become good at it through practice and realizing that I have nothing to lose by putting myself out there. If I walk into a room and leave with one new connection, I consider that a win. I also make sure that I have my elevator pitch about myself ready. One of the best books I ever read that helped me talk about myself was 'The Art of Tooting Your Own Horn without Blowing It'. Finally, I'm better at listening than talking about myself, and so I come ready with thoughtful questions to ask another person. I find that opens up the conversations and gives me something to respond to.
Alice Wen
Procurement
1
Answer
Austin, Texas
Updated
Alice’s Answer
Maybe it helps to think about it this way: you really have nothing to lose by reaching out to someone new or asking a question. Even if they don't respond or you get rejected, you're no worse off than before. You're simply back where you started, without a new connection or answer. Then you can move on and try again with someone else. Sooner or later, it will work with the right person.
I believe most people are willing to share their knowledge and experiences if you approach them politely, show genuine curiosity, and treat them with respect. That's just part of human nature.
Don't be afraid of failure, either. No one knows the right answer or the best way to do something the first time they try. Learning comes from experience, and experience often comes from making mistakes. Every setback teaches you something valuable and helps you do a better job the next time.
The people who succeed aren't the ones who never fail. They're the ones who keep trying, learning, and improving despite their failures. Believe in yourself - you can do it as well!
I believe most people are willing to share their knowledge and experiences if you approach them politely, show genuine curiosity, and treat them with respect. That's just part of human nature.
Don't be afraid of failure, either. No one knows the right answer or the best way to do something the first time they try. Learning comes from experience, and experience often comes from making mistakes. Every setback teaches you something valuable and helps you do a better job the next time.
The people who succeed aren't the ones who never fail. They're the ones who keep trying, learning, and improving despite their failures. Believe in yourself - you can do it as well!