Help me decide whether or not to apply for this job

[Anonymous]

One year I applied for a General Counsel position at a new public online university, it’s almost like a government start-up (not DC). I made it through 3 interview rounds and they even called my references. I did not get the role. I assume was in the top candidates - maybe top 3? The thing is that after 6wks of interviews and talking to my references, I got the generic rejection email from their computer system. That hurt to not get a more personalized note. It hurt a lot last Christmas.

Fast forward - a year later they have a deputy General Counsel position open. I am game for the role I’d like to enter this field and would be happy for the role.

The question is (1) would they seriously consider me given my earlier rejection? (2) The GC might not want someone who competed for their role.

I’d like to think they would consider me for the role. I just hate how the rejection played out last year and whether this is going to be a waste of time.

DCUM, what say you?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:One year I applied for a General Counsel position at a new public online university, it’s almost like a government start-up (not DC). I made it through 3 interview rounds and they even called my references. I did not get the role. I assume was in the top candidates - maybe top 3? The thing is that after 6wks of interviews and talking to my references, I got the generic rejection email from their computer system. That hurt to not get a more personalized note. It hurt a lot last Christmas.

Fast forward - a year later they have a deputy General Counsel position open. I am game for the role I’d like to enter this field and would be happy for the role.

The question is (1) would they seriously consider me given my earlier rejection? (2) The GC might not want someone who competed for their role.

I’d like to think they would consider me for the role. I just hate how the rejection played out last year and whether this is going to be a waste of time.

DCUM, what say you?

Bolded because you’re not the main character & that is the most typical rejection of all time.

[Anonymous]

What are you holding out for? Ego? Apply.

[Anonymous]

I would not take the generic rejection personally at all. It is a way for HR to be fair, above board and confidential. The interviewers may have to agree to keep everything confidential. I was not allowed to talk to candidates or give them feedback on their interviews; we referred them to HR. HR had to be circumspect too. Everyone is afraid of lawsuits based on any perceived promises, preferences or prejudice.

If you are still interested, apply. I’ve interviewed some people two or three times before they get hired. A lot of times there are candidates who are equal in qualifications and it’s extremely difficult to select one.