My dream job rejection challenge: Taryn de Vere on applying for a job – from hat maker to government minister - every day for 30 days

After a promised new role in marketing went sour, Taryn decided to turn the idea of rejection on its head and go looking for it — by applying for a dream job every single day for a month

Taryn de Vere put herself forward for dream jobs, gigs and opportunities with the aim of getting rejected. Photo: Paul Doherty

Taryn de Vere

Getting rejected is usually something people shy away from. The idea of rejection doesn’t tend to inspire confidence, joy or excitement, but I’ve experienced all those feelings and much more from a month spent actively seeking out career rejections.

Earlier this year, I thought I was starting a new job in marketing in Donegal. However, I was barely in the door when I was told that head office in Dublin hadn’t sanctioned the hire and were, instead, downsizing the marketing team. My exciting new job had turned into sudden and unexpected unemployment. I had a few moments of heart-thud that threatened to escalate into full-blown panic — how would I provide for my kids, pay for rent, food and electricity? Then I decided to re-frame the experience and view it as an opportunity instead.