When someone starts hunting for a job, the focus should be on the daily actions that move them forward, not on landing a dream job immediately. To stay motivated, it helps to set concrete, intermediate goals—like replying to five job openings each day. This approach reflects the guidance shared in a discussion with RIAMO, featuring Inna Milyukova, a leading expert from the dedicated employment center My Career.
Focusing on tasks and outcomes that are within reach tends to boost motivation. The more responses one sends, the better the odds of securing an interview invite. If a pause in the search occurs for external reasons, it’s worth pausing to analyze what happened and how to adjust.
One practical step is to identify the stage where a setback occurred in the job search. For instance, if recruiters review a resume but do not provide feedback, the document may need rewriting. Similarly, there can be missteps during a phone screening or in the meeting with an HR specialist that cost a candidate valuable progress.
Ekaterina Savchenko, a career consultant who previously worked with Hexlet online programming school, notes that a common error is lacking clear criteria for choosing potential employers. Without defined preferences, job seekers may chase opportunities that don’t fit their goals or values.
To reduce the number of rejections, Savchenko advises building a targeted search strategy and a clear list of employer requirements. This starts with a deep look at personal values—preferred field, company type, work culture, location, and growth opportunities—and then aligning applications to teams and roles that truly match.
With a structured approach, candidates can set themselves up for steady progress. Breaking the process into observable steps makes it easier to measure progress, adjust tactics, and maintain momentum even when results aren’t immediate. Practical steps include refining resumes for specific roles, preparing concise examples of past accomplishments, and rehearsing responses to common interview questions. By maintaining a consistent rhythm—daily applications, routine preparation, and timely follow-ups—job seekers can build confidence and resilience in a competitive market.
The key is to treat the job search as a strategic project rather than a gamble. By defining what matters most in a role and a workplace, individuals can prioritize opportunities that align with long-term career goals. This thoughtful approach helps candidates present themselves clearly and persuasively to recruiters, increasing the likelihood of meaningful interviews and offers.
Ultimately, success comes from steady action, clear expectations, and ongoing learning. Learning from each interaction, adjusting the plan, and keeping values at the center turns a daunting process into a manageable journey—one that leads to the right fit and lasting professional growth.