Job hunting can be an emotional rollercoaster—from the excitement of finding the perfect position to the disappointment of not hearing back or being officially declined. One of the most commonly misunderstood messages job seekers receive on Indeed is “Not Selected by Employer.” What does this status really mean, and how should you interpret it? This article offers a detailed, accurate, and serious explanation of that message, helping to demystify what truly happens behind the scenes during the hiring process.
Understanding the Message: “Not Selected by Employer”
When you see the status “Not Selected by Employer” on your Indeed job application dashboard, it simply means that the employer reviewed your application and decided not to move forward with you as a candidate. This is a formal way of saying you did not advance to the next stage in their hiring process.
Is it Personal?
It’s natural to feel disappointed, but it’s important to understand that this doesn’t mean you are unqualified or that your skills lack value. Hiring decisions are incredibly complex, and numerous factors play into a recruiter’s or hiring manager’s choice.
- There may have been dozens or hundreds of candidates.
- The position may have required a very specific skill set or experience.
- Sometimes internal candidates are already favored for the role.
- The company might have changed the requirements mid-process.
The status is mostly a procedural update—it tells you where your application stands but doesn’t give personalized feedback.
How Does Indeed Display Application Statuses?
Indeed uses several status updates to help job seekers track where their applications stand. Here are some of the common ones:
- Submitted: Your application was received but has not been reviewed.
- Viewed: The employer has opened your application and looked through it.
- Interview: The employer wants to move forward with an interview.
- Not Selected: You are no longer being considered.
The good news is that “Not Selected by Employer” means that your application was actually seen by someone. In many cases, job seekers submit applications that are never opened or reviewed. So while it’s tough to accept a rejection, it means you at least cleared the first barrier.
Why Employers Use This Status
Hiring professionals and recruitment teams use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to manage high volumes of applications efficiently. Employers mark people as “Not Selected” in their internal system, and Indeed reflects that change on your end so you are kept informed rather than kept in limbo.
There are several reasons employers update application statuses:
- Transparency: Helps reduce applicant uncertainty.
- Efficiency: Keeps the ATS organized.
- Professionalism: Indicates thoughtful and respectful handling of applications.
Although it may not offer specific feedback, receiving even a generic status is more respectful than receiving nothing at all—as is often the case in traditional job searches.
Common Misconceptions
There are a few myths and assumptions people often have when they see that “Not Selected” label on Indeed. Let’s clear up some of these common misconceptions:
1. It Was Automated
While employers do sometimes use automated tools to help screen resumes, the status “Not Selected” typically indicates human review at some level. It doesn’t necessarily mean your resume was auto-rejected without thought.
2. It Means You Or Your Resume Is Unqualified
Not always true. You might have submitted a strong application, but other candidates simply aligned more with the job requirements. Or perhaps the employer was looking for someone with a unique certification or niche experience.
3. There’s No Point in Reapplying
Just because you weren’t selected this time doesn’t mean you shouldn’t consider the same company in the future. Organizations often have multiple openings, and their needs change rapidly.
Best Practices After Seeing “Not Selected by Employer”
Rejection is hard, but every serious job seeker should use each “no” as a stepping stone toward a better opportunity. Here are steps to take when you see this application status:
- Review Your Resume and Cover Letter
Were they targeted specifically for the job? Revisit the job description and evaluate how well your materials matched up. Consider tailoring them more precisely next time. - Improve Keyword Optimization
Many resumes are screened for keywords before they ever reach a human. Tools like applicant tracking systems use algorithmic matching, so ensure you’re using terms that align with the job posting. - Seek Feedback
If you had any communication with the employer or if it was a small company, you might be able to ask for feedback. While this isn’t always granted, it’s worth attempting politely. - Keep Applying
Job hunting is ultimately a numbers game. Don’t put all your emotional energy into one opportunity. Increase your chances by applying smartly and frequently. - Build Your Skills
If you keep seeing similar rejections for roles in your field, consider taking an online course or certifications that boost your resume credibility.
Should You Worry?
No. Seeing “Not Selected by Employer” is an inevitable part of the job hunt, and it happens to everyone—even highly qualified professionals. Think of it as part of the process rather than a reflection of your worth or professional capabilities.
In an age where many companies don’t even bother to notify applicants of rejection, Indeed’s update offers a transparent way to keep job seekers informed, which is ultimately a positive step in an often opaque process.
How Long Does It Take to See This Status?
The time it takes to see the “Not Selected by Employer” status may vary. It can appear:
- Within a few hours (if an application clearly does not meet the minimum qualifications).
- After several weeks (if the employer takes longer to review applications).
- Only after interviews have been completed (if you were in the running but not ultimately chosen).
If you’ve waited more than 3-4 weeks with no update, it’s generally safe to assume you’re not being considered—though jobs are sometimes filled months later.
Additional Tips for Job Seekers
To strengthen your odds of success in future applications, consider these expert-endorsed practices:
- Network: Make connections on LinkedIn or professional groups related to your field.
- Customize: Adjust your resume and cover letter for every application to better align with the specific role.
- Research Companies: Tailor your application materials to the company’s values and tone.
- Follow Up: If an email contact is available, consider sending a brief follow-up message to express continued interest.
Final Thoughts
No one enjoys being told they weren’t selected for a position they were hoping to land. However, when you see “Not Selected by Employer” on Indeed, take it as a sign of professionalism and clarity in an otherwise uncertain process. Remember, every application is a learning opportunity. The key is to keep refining your approach, growing your skillset, and staying persistent.
Job searching is rarely easy, and it often takes time, effort, and resilience to cross the finish line. Use each experience—including rejections—to better position yourself as the ideal candidate. The right role is out there, and every “no” gets you one step closer to “yes.”
