Letitia Williams » Job Hunting: Getting Nowhere Slowly?

Another job application, another decline. There’s nothing more disheartening than putting yourself out there only to be met with rejection time and time again. I know this feeling all too well. The frustration, the despondency, the self-doubt—job hunting can truly humble even the strongest among us.

But on the flip side, nothing compares to the exhilaration of receiving a job offer. That feeling of "They picked me!" I want that for you, and I’m here to help increase your chances of landing the job you’re after. Having held multiple roles and even turned down offers myself, I’ve learned a thing or two that might help you right now.

If you’re reading this, you might already be discouraged—or teetering on the edge. If you’re currently employed, the temptation to give up and just stick with the devil you know can be strong. But before you do, consider what I’m about to share. It will empower you to take control of what is within your power to control.

You Can’t Win If You Don’t Play

It’s like saying you wish to win the lottery but never buying a ticket. And in this case, your ticket is your application, and the platform is you, standing ready for that next opportunity. No matter how many times you’ve been knocked down by rejection, you need to muster the resilience to keep getting back up. The bruises to your ego might sting, but persistence is key.

Build Resilience

Rejection in job hunting can feel personal, but often it’s not. Recruitment processes are complex, and many factors—many of which have nothing to do with you—come into play. Adopting a more empowering mindset will help you bounce back faster. Instead of thinking, I’m not good enough for these positions, try reframing it to, What can I do to improve my chances? You only need one “yes” from an organisation you want to work for. Embrace an abundance mindset and trust that rejection might be saving you from an opportunity that wasn’t right for you. Celebrate the small wins, like landing an interview, even if it didn’t result in a job offer.

Understand the Rules of Recruitment

As an HR professional, I can tell you that recruitment is never as straightforward as it seems. Each company is different, shaped by its unique culture, and what one organisation values may not align with another. Not to mention the human factor—hiring decisions are not always perfect. Sometimes, biases come into play or decisions are based on fear of making the wrong choice. Your job is to focus on what’s in your control: how you present yourself and how you show up for each opportunity.

Review Your CV

Before applying for any job, ensure your CV positions you as a strong candidate for that role. Your CV should get you into the interview room. While you don’t need to meet 100% of the job criteria, having most of the qualifications and experience will give you a strong chance. Plus, even applying for jobs you’re not a perfect fit for can provide valuable experience, both in handling rejection and in honing your interview skills.

Prepare Well for Interviews

First impressions matter. Research the company, understand the role, and practice your answers. Look the part and show up confidently. The more prepared you are, the better you’ll perform. Reflect after each interview: what went well, what didn’t, and how can you improve next time? This continuous self-evaluation will boost your performance in future interviews.

Know Your Non-Negotiables

Don’t trade one unsatisfying job for another that compromises your values. Take the time to reflect on what truly matters to you in your next role. Is it a supportive manager, a collaborative team, or flexible working hours? Knowing what you want will make it easier to evaluate potential opportunities and walk away from those that don’t align with your needs.

To help you ascertain exactly what’s right for you, grab this free download: 10 Evidence-Based Factors You Must Consider Before Your Next Career Move

Don’t Confuse Delay with Failure

If you stop job hunting, you’re guaranteeing you won’t succeed. Sometimes, it takes longer to find the right fit due to factors beyond your control, such as location, industry demand, or the seasonality of certain jobs. Acknowledge these factors but don’t let them discourage you from continuing to prepare for your next opportunity.

What Can You Do in the Interim?

This is your time to prepare. Create or review your personal development plan. Be specific about your career goals—what job do you want, and by when do you want it? Instead of saying, Start a new job, say, Become a financial manager within four months. Identify the skills you need to strengthen and commit to taking action. Keep growing both personally and professionally while making applications.

You’re never alone unless you choose to isolate yourself. Reach out to family, friends, or even a career coach to guide you through this process. Seeking support will help you stay focused, motivated, and prepared when the right opportunity arises.

It’s only a matter of time. Make the most of it.

Reference

Liu, S., Huang, J. L., & Wang, M. (2014). Effectiveness of job search interventions: A meta-analytic review. Psychological Bulletin, 140(4), 1009.