The Unnecessary Formality: Why Scheduled Rejection Meetings Might Not Be Worth It
Navigating the complex landscape of job interviews is already challenging, but recent trends have added another layer of frustration. A mounting annoyance among job seekers is the practice of scheduling formal meetings to communicate rejection after multiple rounds of interviews. This begs the question: Is this really necessary?
Picture this scenario: you’ve invested hours, possibly days, attending five or six rounds of interviews for a position you felt optimistic about. Suddenly, you receive a calendar invitation from the recruiter, expecting perhaps another discussion about the role or the next steps. Instead, you find yourself in a meeting where the sole purpose is to inform you, “Unfortunately, we’ve decided to move forward with another candidate.” The frustration is palpable.
While follow-ups are certainly valuable and appreciated, receiving such disappointing news in a pre-arranged meeting feels excessive. A personalized email or a direct phone call, catching you at a convenient time, conveys the same message without monopolizing more of your day.
This trend feels less like a courtesy and more like a misplaced power dynamic that doesn’t serve the candidate’s interests. The goal should be effective communication, and it’s worth asking whether this formal approach truly benefits anyone involved.
As we discuss hiring practices, it’s crucial to reconsider whether customary approaches truly enhance the recruitment process or merely add unnecessary formality. For those who have experienced these scheduled rejections, what are your thoughts? Could there be a more efficient way to handle this delicate part of the job search journey? Share your insights—let’s bring a balanced view to this discussion.