How Jobseekers can advance their job search in a spirit of gratitude

It's Thanksgiving - a time of giving thanks for all the blessings in our lives and even challenges, for they have taught us invaluable lessons.

The labour market is competitive. Debt and inflation are rising and some days may feel harder than others. But even so, you have unique value to offer, you have strengths and talents that you may not be completely harnessing.

Jobseekers, you can can land a lucrative job offer by just doing a few simple things in a spirit of gratitude and harmony. It does not need to be complicated. Remember that our mindset supported by our innate strengths can be one of our greatest assets when it comes to job search. Here are five strategies for success:

1. Keep a “gratitude log” focused on even small progress

Each evening, write down 2–3 things you’re grateful for in your job search: e.g. “I had a good conversation with a mentor today,” or “I tweaked my resume, and it reads better now.” Over time, keeping a detailed gratitude log builds perspective.

Why it matters (with evidence): Gratitude journalling or listing is one of the most studied positive‑psychology interventions. A systematic review found that gratitude-list interventions (writing things you’re thankful for) often lead to significant reductions in perceived stress and depression among working populations.

Also, one 12‑day gratitude journal intervention improved participants’ work engagement by shifting attention toward supportive job and social resources.

So even a few minutes per day can help you notice what’s going well—and buffer against negative spirals.

2. Write (and send) genuine thank-you notes, even for rejections or brief conversations

After an interview—even if you don’t get the job—send a short note like:

“Thank you for your time today. I appreciate hearing how the team approaches [a specific project or value mentioned]. I’m grateful for the chance to learn more about your work and your feedback will help me grow.”

You can also do this for people who have given you referrals, career advice, or shared leads.

Why it matters (qualitative + relational): While I didn’t find a sweeping statistic about thank-you notes in job searching, gratitude expressions strengthen relationships, leave positive impressions, and remind both you and the recipient of shared humanity.

In job markets often dominated by silence or “ghosting,” gratitude helps you stand out with kindness. Given that 72% of job seekers say the search has harmed their mental health, gratitude toward others can help you maintain connection and dignity in the process.

3. Express gratitude by giving back—share leads, advice, or encouragement

If you see a job posting that might suit a friend or colleague in your network, forward it with a note like, “I saw this role and thought of you—just in case it helps.” Or volunteer to review someone’s resume, conduct mock interviews, or simply cheer someone on.

Why it matters (reciprocity and mental health): Acts of generosity shift focus outward and build social support. Social support is a known buffer against anxiety in the job-search process. A study of university students found that higher perceived social support mediated (i.e. lessened) the negative effects of job-search anxiety on flourishing (well-being).

Plus, as you give, you strengthen your network—meaning others may be more eager to help you in return.

4. Frame setbacks as opportunities to learn with gratitude

According to NLP principles, there is no failure, only constructive feedback. Many people view an experience as a failure because they choose to see it that way. So, when you get a rejection or no response, pause and ask:

• What can I learn from this experience (e.g. in my interview, my application, my messaging)?

• What parts did go okay— what I’m glad I did well?

• Who or what helped me along the way (a coach, a contact, a template) that I can acknowledge?

  
  

Then, document those reflections in your gratitude log or journal.

Why it matters (resilience and mindset): Job searches often include many “no’s.” In one iHire survey, 46.8% of candidates reported that job searching negatively impacted their mental health.

By actively looking for what went right (or what’s useful in the attempt), you resist internalizing rejection as total failure. Over time, this builds psychological resilience.

5. Gratitude as sustenance for self-care—pause, rest, and appreciate your capacity

When you feel depleted, take a break and reflect: “I’m grateful my body let me push this far today; I’m proud of the effort I made.” Do something replenishing—walk, read a non‑job‑search book, call a friend. Recognize that rest isn’t wasted time.

Why it matters (mental health evidence): Job searching can be psychologically taxing. As one report notes, 72% of job seekers admit it has impacted their mental health.

Moreover, protracted job searches exact a mental toll. Some surveys report that over half of unemployed individuals feel identity loss, anxiety, or emotional strain.

Yet, gratitude is emotionally uplifting and spiritually empowering -- it helps you preserve a sense of worth and balance—not defining yourself solely by job outcomes.

Seeking career transition support this October? Contact Creative Horizons Communications or visit www.creativeresumestrategist.com for more information on how we can help you embrace a new career horizon.