Job hunting is never easy. But beyond resumes, applications, and interviews, one crucial element can make all the difference: grit. At CPI, we believe that grit — the relentless drive to keep pushing forward despite setbacks — is as important in job hunting as it is in achieving long-term goals in any field.
Understanding Grit
Grit is more than just perseverance. Psychologist Dr. Angela Duckworth, known for her research on grit, defines it as a combination of passion and sustained persistence applied toward long-term goals. Duckworth’s research shows that grit can be an even more critical factor in success than talent or intelligence, with studies across students, athletes, and employees supporting this theory.
Duckworth’s famous 2013 study on grit revealed that individuals with high grit scores outperformed peers with equal or even greater natural abilities. This suggests that grit might be the key to pushing through the frustrations, setbacks, and difficulties in a job search. Those who display grit are often better at sustaining the motivation needed to find the right job, even if it takes longer than expected.
How Grit Helps in with Job Hunting
Grit keeps you moving forward during your job hunt, but it also helps in other, more nuanced ways:
- Building Resilience
Job rejections and prolonged searches can feel discouraging, but grit fosters resilience. When you’re grounded in the knowledge that each application and each interview brings you closer to your goal, rejections become less daunting. With each new opportunity, you learn, adapt, and grow. - Continuous Improvement
The most successful job seekers treat the search as a learning process. After each interview, you can take notes on what went well and what didn’t, allowing you to improve continuously. This self-improvement mindset — a cornerstone of grit — ensures that with each attempt, your approach is refined. - Long-Term Focus
People with grit are often more focused on finding the right job, not just any job. This is essential in competitive job markets, where it can be tempting to accept the first offer that comes along. Staying focused on your long-term career goals allows you to stay motivated and confident that the right opportunity is out there.
How to Cultivate Grit
You don’t have to be born with grit — it’s something you can build! Here are some ways to cultivate grit during your job search:
- Set Smaller Milestones During Your Job Hunt
Breaking down your job search into smaller, achievable tasks, like updating your resume, applying for a certain number of jobs per day, or practicing interview questions, makes the process manageable. Achieving these smaller milestones gives you a sense of accomplishment that fuels your momentum. - Develop a Growth Mindset
Embrace the idea that each setback is an opportunity for growth. If an interview doesn’t go as planned, think about what you could do differently next time. This growth mindset is a core aspect of grit. - Stay Passionate
Passion doesn’t mean that every part of the job search is enjoyable, but it does mean staying connected to your “why.” Whether you’re driven by a passion for your field, the desire to grow, or the need to provide for your family, keeping your motivation front and center can help you persist.
Let CPI Help You Harness Your Grit During Your Job Hunt
At CPI, we’re more than just talent experts — we’re partners in helping you achieve your career goals. We understand how challenging job hunting can be and the value that grit can bring to your journey. When you work with us, we help you discover job opportunities that align with your skills and aspirations. Our team of experts can provide guidance, feedback, and resources to help you succeed.
If you’re ready to put your grit to work and find a position that suits your passion and perseverance, reach out to the talent experts at CPI. We’re here to support you in finding a career path that brings out the best in you. Click here to get started.
So, keep pushing forward. Remember that grit isn’t just a trait; it’s a choice you make every day to keep going. CPI is here to help you achieve the career success you deserve.
