in my game, applying for jobs is just that, a game.
my senior manager expects me to apply for jobs, even if they are in places that would be impossible to move to or positions that i wont be successful for, due to other people having been acting in that position and knowing the jo/people inside out.
its all to do with ‘learning to play the game’
this has been a new concept to me, i never applied for a job before that i either didnt want or didnt think i had a better than even chance of being successful.
and i would be frowned upon big style if i didnt ask for feedback when unsuccessful.
your reaction for not being successful is noted by senior managers.
is your knockback a spur to make you do better and prove to your bosses that they made a mistake by not promoting you or a kick in the teeth, where you dont get back up therby justifying their decision that you are not the person for the job.
my 2p worth.
edit – my advice is that you ARE entitled to feedback and you should listen carefully to the feedback and make the changes necessary to enable you to be successful next time.. if you want to get the promotion.