Quote From Talented:
I like what I do at the crisis center and passionate and committed to it. Recently, a position opened up and I applied. But got rejected. That was a low point and a severe blow.
Firstly, congratulations on finding a field and role you feel passionate about! That's great, and it's something that people sometimes struggle with post-PhD, so you're doing really well to have found that. I hope that this alone would support developing some positive self esteem.
Now, on to the rejection. Whether one has no qualifications, or one has a PhD, there is always a chance of rejection with any job application. Sometimes it means that one not the right candidate, but sometimes a person can be perfectly good enough, but just pipped to the post on the day by someone who is a tiny bit of a better fit. It is not worth wasting too much energy on a single rejection, disappointing though it might be.
Have you sought feedback on how your application process went? It is important to know whether it was due to something on the application, or in the interview, or a skills gap (perceived or actual). If you can find out this then you can increase your chances on the next occasion by improving anything that needs improving. Or if it was just that someone else was a bit better on the day, then you can be reassured you are already a good candidate and just need to wait for another go at getting a role.
If you don't think there will be many opportunities forthcoming in your current organisation, have a think about what engages you about the job (Working with people? Dealing with crisis situations?) and then you can identify other organisations to apply to as well, who will appreciate the experience that you have gained with the crisis centre, if you pitch your application in such a way that highlights it.
