Shenelle Payne Cuffy, one of our 2025 Career Coaches in Residences, shares tips for staying positive throughout your job search journey.
Job searching is like a rollercoaster. It's full of highs, lows and lots of unexpected twists. We might feel joy when offered an interview, anxiety during the process and disappointment after a rejection. These setbacks often bring self-doubt, low motivation, imposter syndrome and more. If any of this sounds familiar, you’re not alone—these feelings are a normal part of the journey. How we cope with them can shape our success, helping us build resilience throughout the job search.
Here are tips to help you maintain positivity while looking for a job:
Recognize your self-worth
Say this out loud to yourself: “Rejection is not a reflection of my self-worth." Your self-worth is determined by what you believe and the attributes you value about yourself—not by what anyone says about you or other external factors. Reflect on the strengths, abilities and experiences that make you feel confident. Use them to affirm your self-worth.
View failure as an opportunity to learn
There are many reasons why you might be rejected during a job search. Use this rejection to learn how you can improve. For example, after an interview, reflect on your performance and ask the hiring manager for feedback. Embracing and adopting feedback will help you get one step closer to passing your next interview.
Challenge negative beliefs
It is easy to fall into the habit of thinking negatively about ourselves. When you notice these thoughts, pause and question their validity: Why do I have these thoughts? What evidence supports them to be true? You may realize how easily negative beliefs take hold. Recognizing this gives you the chance to replace them with more positive, empowering ones.
Focus on your strengths and unique qualities
Take time to reflect on your strengths and unique qualities. Each of us has something valuable to offer the world. It’s up to us to recognize and highlight these qualities every time we apply for a role. By focusing on your strengths, you’ll naturally bring more positivity to the process.
Use your professional network
When it comes to job searching, community is key. Lean on your network—they can offer wisdom, encouragement and insights to keep you hopeful. They may also connect you with industry contacts or job search resources specific to your field. There’s no shame in the process. Your professional network can help light the way forward.
Talk to family and friends
Job searching can be tough, so it’s important to lean on your personal network to share your feelings. Your family and friends know you well and can provide a safe, non-judgmental space for extra support.
Seek professional support
Resources are essential during this time. Professionals in helping fields—like career coaches and therapists—can offer up-to-date advice to support both your professional and personal growth. Their guidance can boost your confidence and equip you with practical tools for navigating career transitions.
Moments of self care
Make time for yourself and engage in activities that bring you joy. Even a short break from job searching can lift your spirits. Caring for your well-being helps refresh your mind and strengthens your ability to stay positive.
As job seekers, it's important to remember that we hold power—the power to build self-esteem, to view feedback and rejection as opportunities for growth, and to stay motivated throughout the process. Embracing this mindset brings us one step closer to the job we’re working toward.
The Career Coaches in Residence program is generously supported by lead donors:
RBC Foundation
