I recently applied 3 times for the same job – with the client’s permission. I applied once, sending an example of my work. Then a second request came, through my agent, to apply. I figured, they hadn’t seen my first application and I thought OK, I’ll apply again and emphasise different things, or just do it slightly differently.
Then I saw that they were still advertising the job, so I emailed the recruiter and said, I do actually think I’d be REALLY SUITABLE for this job, but on the other hand, maybe I am NOT AT ALL what you are looking for? If you could give me a better idea of what you do want, maybe I could try again?
The recruiter replied (and I am grateful for this) and said, “I am open to your applying again, but what we need is x, y and z…”
So I applied a 3rd time and did it exactly as she had said. She then replied that she had put me through into the next round. We shall see.
My point is: don’t badger recruiters – and always be polite – but if you think you’d be REALLY GOOD for a particular role, don’t be shy about saying so. It may still not work out for me, but I feel I have got it out of my system ie I won’t apply again if I get turned down this time.
Both my assistant and I felt my application was really strong this time (she saw one of my other applications) and I “haven’t let myself down”. What I mean is: I have done it as well as I am going to do it.
My point is:
…and this is my point: don’t fall at the first hurdle, the first rejection. Do fight your corner, press your case, try again, if it’s possible. Ask for feedback, act on it, and ask if you can submit again. But if it’s a definite no, know when to move on. They may want someone with completely different skills or attributes from you, but just didn’t put them in the job ad, for whatever reason.
