Navigating Rejection in Accounting Internships: When to Reapply and How to Request Feedback

According to recent statistics, over 60% of job seekers face rejection in the internship application process. This can be disheartening, but it is also an opportunity to improve and refine your application. If you recently applied for an accounting internship at Amazon and received an email stating that they couldn’t proceed with your candidacy, you might be wondering about your next steps. In this article, we will explore when it is advisable to reapply and how to tactfully request feedback from potential employers.

Understanding the Reasons for Rejection

First, it is important to understand why your application might have been rejected. There could be various reasons, ranging from a mismatch in skills to a large pool of qualified candidates. Instead of dwelling on the rejection, use it as a learning opportunity to enhance your application and improve your performance in future interviews.

Timing Your Reapplication

Whether you should reapply immediately or wait a few months depends on the specific circumstances and the company's timeline. A good rule of thumb is to reapply within six to twelve months, allowing you to improve your skills and gain more relevant experiences. This cynical but strategic timing can make a significant difference in your application's success rate.

Tactful Request for Feedback

Once you decide to reapply, it is crucial to do so without causing any negative impressions. One effective strategy is to tactfully ask for feedback from the employer. This not only shows that you are proactive and engaged but also provides valuable insights into areas that you might need to improve. Here's a sample email you can use:

Email:

Subject: Request for Feedback on My Application

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I recently applied for the [Position Name] internship at Amazon and, while I did not receive a place in the interview round, I truly believe that after gaining more experience and improving my skills, I would be an excellent fit for the position.

Could you please share with me any feedback you have on my application? I am particularly interested in understanding the key areas where I may have lagged behind, so that I can work on them to improve my candidacy next time around.

I am eager to learn from your insights and would appreciate any guidance you can offer. Additionally, I am considering reapplying for the position in 6 months, and I would like to ensure that I am fully prepared then.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

By requesting feedback, you demonstrate your commitment to personal and professional growth, making your reapplication more compelling. The employer might see this as an opportunity to provide valuable advice and potentially connect with a promising candidate.

Additional Steps to Enhance Your Reapplication

Before reapplying, take the following steps to strengthen your application:

Gather more experience: Look for opportunities to gain relevant experience through part-time jobs, volunteer work, or internships in related fields. Improve your skills: Attend workshops, webinars, or courses to enhance your accounting and business skills. This could include topics like financial modeling, data analysis, or project management. Adjust your resume: Revise your resume to highlight any new skills, experiences, or achievements. Make sure it is tailored to the specific internship you are applying for. Polish your interview skills: Practice answering common interview questions, learn about Amazon's culture, and prepare thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer. Network: Connect with professionals in the accounting industry and join relevant online forums. Networking can provide you with valuable connections and advice, and it may even lead to recommendations.

Conclusion

Receiving rejection in the internship application process is challenging, but it also presents an opportunity for growth. By reapplying after a strategic period and seeking valuable feedback from potential employers, you can improve your chances of success. Remember to stay proactive, gain more experience, and continuously refine your application. With persistence and the right approach, you can increase your chances of securing an accounting internship at Amazon or any other company.

Key Points Recap:

Reapplication timing: Within six to twelve months. Tactful request for feedback. Steps to enhance your reapplication.