Every job seeker has had to deal with rejection; but even if they weren’t hired for a job they only had lukewarm feelings about, they still want to know why.  Below are four possible reasons why you didn’t land the job:

1. You weren’t the best fit or there was someone else who was a better fit than you.  This is probably one of the most common reasons why a job seeker is not hired after an interview.  They simply weren’t the best choice for the position.
2. You weren’t really passionate about the job and the hiring manager knows it. During the recession, many job seekers have made the mistake of applying for jobs which they know they really don’t want.  For them it’s just an act of desperation or a “pit-stop” before they find what they really want. While it may be easy to whip up an impressive resume and cover letter, it is next to impossible to convey enthusiasm on a job interview when you in fact have no real passion or desire for the job.
3. You were trying too hard to say all the right things and failed to be honest during the interview.  While job seekers shouldn’t “let it all hang out” on a job interview, they should be willing to share genuine thoughts, opinions and experiences in a way that is tactful and professional.  Trying to give “safe” answers to an interviewer may make a job seeker look like the type who is afraid to share what they’re really thinking.
4. You didn’t interview the company. Yes, we know you want to get the job; but you should also want to know as much about the company before you make such a huge commitment. Job candidates who fail to do their homework and ask relevant questions, run the risk of being viewed as disinterested and therefore not the best choice for the position.