Job hunting can be exhausting. One day, you’re sending off applications, networking, and feeling like you’re making headway. The next, you’re met with silence, rejection emails, or worse ..nothing at all. It’s easy to feel stuck.
But here’s the thing, progress is still happening, even when it doesn’t feel like it. This is where The Progress Principle can help.
What is The Progress Principle?
Coined by researchers Teresa Amabile and Steven Kramer, The Progress Principle is simple, even the smallest steps forward can boost motivation and keep you going. It’s not just about landing the job, it’s about recognising the progress you’re making along the way.
How can it help your job search?
If your only goal is securing a new role, every rejection or delay can feel like a failure. But when you shift your focus to progress, small but meaningful steps, you start to see that you’re actually moving forward. And that shift in mindset changes everything.
Here’s how to use it to your advantage:
1. Break it down into micro goals
Instead of just thinking I need a new job, create smaller, achievable targets:
- Apply for five well-matched roles this week
- Connect with three new people in your industry
- Practise answering key interview questions
Small, consistent actions create momentum and help you feel in control of the process.
2. Track your wins. Even the small ones!
Keep a record. Whether in a journal, a spreadsheet, or even a simple notes app, of what you’ve done. Every tailored application, every networking conversation, every interview, even a recruiter responding to your message… these are all steps forward. Even rejections, when they come with feedback, mean you’re learning and improving.
3. Celebrate progress (Yes, even the little things!)
Got a message from a recruiter? Did you land an interview? Finally, nailed that tricky CV wording? These are proof that things are moving in the right direction. Recognising these small wins keeps motivation high and helps you push through the tough days.
4. View setbacks as part of the journey
Rejections aren’t failures, they’re opportunities for growth. They can help point out areas where you can improve, like your CV, interview style, or application strategy. Instead of thinking “I wasn’t good enough,” try asking yourself, “What can I learn from this?” Each piece of feedback brings you closer to where you want to be.
5. Keep going, even when it feels slow
The real power of The Progress Principle is that it stops you from feeling stuck. Small, consistent steps compound over time. Keep applying, keep networking, and keep improving. Eventually, the right opportunity will come your way.
Job searching is tough, but shifting your focus from just getting hired to making progress every day makes all the difference. The next step you take no matter how small is still progress.
Keep going. You’re moving forward, even if it doesn’t feel like it yet.