Have you ever been passed up for a job that you really wanted? You were excited when you were called in for an interview, you thought it went well, and you left feeling pretty confident. You wait and wait for the call and then...they tell you that you didn't get the job. At this point, most people probably just move on with their job hunt and forget about the one they got rejected for. Many people get frustrated after going through the application and interview process only to be rejected. However, you don't have to take "no" for an answer.

If your dream employer turns you down, send them a rejection follow-up letter.  This will keep your name in their head just in case:

• The person they hired instead of you doesn't work out.
• A second position opens up.
• A totally different position opens up that the employer feels you would be qualified for.

Here are some things to include in this letter:

• Thank the company for considering you for the position. Think of this as similar to a thank-you note that you would send after being interviewed.
• In the next paragraph, discuss your positive impressions of the company during the application process. Reiterate your interest in the company. Re-enforce your qualifications in terms of how suitable you would be for the company and how hiring you would benefit them.
• Next, you may want to ask them to keep you updated should any other positions open up and mention that you may reapply to the company again at a later date.
• Lastly, if your resume has changed, send an updated version with the follow-up letter.

Of course, writing this letter does not guarantee that the employer will reconsider hiring you. What it does guarantee is that you will show that you are professional and that you have a true interest in the company.