The Upside of Rejection: Turning No Into Growth

Plus: “Gen Z Whisperers” & TikTok Trend Backfires

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🪲 Did You Know?: On September 9, 1947, the first computer bug was discovered by computer scientist Grace Hopper and her team. They found a moth trapped in the Harvard Mark II computer, coining the term "bug" to describe unexplained computer failures. This marked a milestone in the history of computing.

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Rejection Fuels Progress

Rejection is a chance to learn something valuable. 🌱

Rejection is a natural part of anyone’s job search, especially for recent grads. While it can feel discouraging, each "no" is an opportunity to learn, grow, and improve. Instead of seeing a “no” as a setback, use it as a step toward success. Here are a few tips to help you turn rejection into growth:

  • Reflect on Feedback: When possible, ask for feedback after interviews and use it to refine your resume, interview skills, and general approach.

  • Refine Your Strategy: Review your job search approach. Are you targeting the right roles? Adjust your focus if needed.

  • Continue Skill Development: Build or refine relevant skills through online learning to enhance your qualifications.

  • Stay Positive and Resilient: Rejection is part of the journey. Keep your goals in mind and stay motivated by tracking progress and lessons learned.

Every application, interview, and rejection brings you closer to the right fit. So stay persistent, learn from each experience, and refine your approach. With each "no," you're moving closer to the next big "yes."

Gen Z Whisperers

Image: The Guardian/Talk Twenties

A new generation of consultants, dubbed "Gen Z Whisperers," is helping companies connect with and better understand their youngest employees. These consultants challenge stereotypes about young professionals, demonstrating that they bring more to the table than common misconceptions might suggest, according to reporting from The Guardian.

The advisers highlight that younger employees prioritize mental health, work-life balance, and authenticity, rather than being disloyal or entitled. Their insights are helping businesses adapt by focusing on what matters most to the next generation of workers, ultimately aiding in attracting and retaining top talent.

The work of these consultants shows that bridging generational gaps at work is about more than just staying on top of trends—it’s about embracing change. However, change takes time, so young professionals should aim to integrate smoothly into existing work cultures while also contributing fresh perspectives that drive progress.

TikTok Trend=Fraud?

Image: Gizmodo/Getty Images

A recent viral TikTok trend falsely claimed to reveal a "free money glitch" at Chase ATMs, prompting some users to engage in what is actually a form of bank fraud. The scheme involved depositing bad checks and withdrawing cash before the checks cleared, with participants assuming they could outsmart the system, according to reporting by Gizmodo. 

However, Chase quickly confirmed the fraudulent nature of this activity and has reported the individuals involved to law enforcement. Although the total number of people involved remains unclear, reports suggest it could involve thousands.

Instead of short-term schemes that lead to legal trouble, young professionals can focus on building valued skills and creating a strategy for long-term success. By prioritizing personal growth and making informed financial decisions, they can achieve more sustainable and rewarding results in their careers.