Job hunting can be a tiring and exhausting process, especially if you’ve been putting in effort for several months and applying to positions but still haven’t found the right job.

Often, we see posts on LinkedIn where people share that they’ve applied to dozens of companies but haven’t been selected. In such situations, it’s easy to feel discouraged. So, what can you do to stay motivated and increase your chances of finding a suitable job?

1. Conduct a Critical Self-Assessment

One of the most important steps is mapping out your strengths and weaknesses. Write down:

  • What are your skills and experiences?

  • In which areas are you strong, and where could you improve?

  • What kind of work environment suits you? What values and culture should the company have?

This kind of self-reflection helps you understand which job opportunities actually fit your profile. For example, if you have young children and that affects your availability, it might not be wise to apply for positions that are difficult to substitute.

2. Apply Thoughtfully

Many job seekers make the mistake of applying everywhere without careful evaluation. For instance, someone without any relevant education or experience applying for an energy specialist role, or a cashier applying for a construction project manager position. Considering that hiring the wrong person can be costly for employers, motivation alone is often not enough.

Before applying, consider:

  • Does this position match your skills and experience?

  • Does your personal situation align with the job’s requirements?

  • If you have children, is it possible to find a backup in case they get sick?

3. Protect Your Reputation

Candidates often fail to make a reliable impression and can damage their reputation with employers for future opportunities. For example, not answering calls because you’re hesitant to say you’re not interested, or using avoidance tactics to delay giving a decision, can leave a negative impression.

Answering phone calls, emails, and attending interviews is critical. Even if you decide a job isn’t right for you, communicate politely. Always act responsibly. (Yes, some employers may not provide feedback or conduct hiring professionally, but that is irrelevant here.) Everyone builds their own reputation, which can last for future career moves.

4. Take Care of Your Mental Health

Finding a job can be emotionally draining. This exhaustion can also show during the hiring process and make employers cautious, as resilience and stress management are increasingly valued.

To prevent burnout:

  • Take regular time for yourself and your hobbies.

  • Avoid excessive screen time.

  • Get fresh air, exercise, and eat healthily.

  • Practice self-awareness and emotional regulation, e.g., meditation or breathing exercises.

5. Understand the Process and Be Patient

Finding the right job takes time, and it doesn’t mean there’s anything wrong with you. Some hiring processes are longer or more complex. Extended job searches can negatively affect self-esteem, and it’s easy to unconsciously blame employers. Details of the hiring process are often confidential, so you won’t know all the steps. This can create a defensive mindset during interviews, which makes it harder for employers to connect with you personally.

It’s important not to take setbacks personally and to maintain a positive attitude. Understand that finding the right job takes time. We are all valuable; we just need to find our right place. Don’t take life too seriously—keep trying and trust the process. Emotional regulation is key. Only when you are in a good emotional state can you attract the right opportunities.

6. Focus on Personal Development

Every job seeker carries their life experiences with them. It’s important to remember that succeeding at a future job isn’t solely dependent on past work experience. Unresolved issues from childhood, relationships, school, or previous jobs can affect work life.

To address this, engage in personal development. Everyone does it differently—therapy, retreats, mindful breathing, meditation, etc. The key is to work on yourself so you can be present and ready for a new role, increasing your chances of finding the right job.

In summary

Job hunting is a process that requires time, patience, and self-awareness. Critical self-assessment, thoughtful applications, mental health care, and personal development are key to staying motivated and increasing your chances of finding a suitable job. A new position awaits you—but only when you are truly ready for it.