Persistence or Defeat? How to Stay Motivated in the Process of Finding a Job When the Road is Full of Countless “No's"

Last June 8, I was honored to attend an inspiring virtual conference given by Sarah Spear, head of the GTM strategy team of Google Canada, in which she provided us with valuable insight into the life lessons she has learned from her successful career with internationally recognized companies such as RBC Canada.

Each of the lessons was of great value. However, one particularly resonated with me as my fellow postgraduate students, and I found ourselves in a restless search for a Co-Op opportunity. It is challenging to remain positive in the face of the stressful process that this “treasure” hunt entails.

In 2021, I remembered entering the LinkedIn world for the first time and reading many posts about unemployed people constantly searching for a fine and well-paid job. And here I was, joining this social network to find a fine and well-paid job too.

After stalking several businesses’ professional profiles, I was ready to embark on this exciting/scary journey. I remember applying to up to 40 different companies and receiving 11 rejections with the catchy phrase we have all heard at one time or another: “Thank you for your application. We have made the decision to move forward with another candidate at this time” plus those that are not being accounted for because I did not receive a response.

I must say, it is harsh to remain faithful after many rejections, but as the positive person that I am, I promised to keep looking because I knew my ideal job was out there waiting for me, so I kept going until the end of the tunnel of countless no’s, a big yes awaited me in a company that exceeded all my expectations and was aligned to my talent. Did I have moments when I despaired and wanted to give up the search? Yes, and studies show that I am not the only one.

According to a Forbes report, approximately 118 people apply for any given job. Of those 118 applicants, only 22% will be invited to interview for the position.

Based on statistics from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), job seekers who submit applications for a range of 21 to 80 positions have a 30.89% probability of receiving a job offer. In comparison, those who apply for 11 to 20 jobs have a slightly lower chance at 29.48%. However, job seekers who cast their net wider and apply for over 81 jobs face a reduced likelihood of receiving a job offer, with a probability of 20.36%.

The above leads to Sarah’s lesson, “Invest yourself and never doubt your abilities,” referring to all those moments when we stopped ourselves from acting because we feared we were not talented, innovative, or experienced enough to try again.

I was genuinely taken aback by Sara’s words in her lecture: “If I had listened to my doubts, I would have never applied to Google for a second time. The average person applies to Google 3 times before they get a role.” My instant thought was: No way! Do people working at Google know about rejection? It might sound unrealistic, but it is true. Let us not forget that many things look different from what they really are.

I think the most logical thinking of all human beings is to assume that a person in a great position got it on the first try when in reality, behind the scenes, there were countless rejections, hours spent planning interviews, detailing cover letters, and applying without giving up. Have you heard about the iceberg philosophy? We live in a constant bias by seeing only part of the picture, thinking that it is the whole picture, but in reality, it is just a tiny fraction (this is also the biggest problem with social networks today).

Incorporating Sara’s favorite quote, “Doubt kills more dreams than failure ever will,” and as she wisely said: You miss 100% of the shots you do not take. Do not be deterred from not getting the job. Be persistent.

These tips from such a successful businesswoman as Sarah are a powerful reminder to push through uncertainty and embrace the possibility of failure, knowing that it is through perseverance and self-belief that we can truly unlock our dreams.

If you are looking for a job, a Co-Op, or an internship and have not found one yet, do not be discouraged. There are excellent opportunities for everyone. You just have to keep knocking on doors until one day, one opens.?Your opportunity is waiting for you, and who knows, maybe it is the next door you will knock on.

What are the five life lessons Sarah shared with us? Here they are:

1. Some of the most rewarding work experiences she has had have been ones where she was paid $0
2. Invest in yourself and never doubt your abilities
3. Enjoy the journey, NOT just the destination
4. Life begins at the end of your comfort zone. Having the right attitude is always the key to success.
5. Network when you need nothing to get an instant response when you need something.

Which one resonates with you the most? Share your answer with your network. There may be someone else who needs to hear your advice.