Signs You’re Doing Better Than You Think (Even Without a Job Yet)

By New Grad Navigator

If you’re a recent graduate and still job searching, it can feel like everyone else is racing ahead while you’re stuck at the starting line.
The fear is real. The self-doubt creeps in.
And before you know it, you're asking yourself,

“Am I failing?”

Here’s the truth: You’re probably doing a lot better than you think.

You may not see the full results yet, but there are small signs that you're building momentum — and they deserve to be recognized.

Let’s look at a few.

You’re Getting Interviews (Even If You’re Not Getting Offers Yet)

Every interview you land means a hiring manager saw something worth exploring in you.
Even if you don't get the offer, you’re building critical skills:

•  Learning to tell your story better
•  Getting more comfortable answering tough questions
•  Figuring out what types of roles fit you best

Progress isn't just about offers — it's about becoming sharper and more confident with every conversation.  Never rule out there is a reason for everything.  There were times I was passed up on roles and it crushed me  - and 2 years later the company filed for bankruptcy.  Don’t under estimate the universe is telling you there is something better for you or a different lesson you need to learn first.  

You’re Hearing "No" — And Still Trying

Rejection hurts. No one likes it.
But every time you apply again, tweak your resume, or go into another interview after hearing a “no,” you are building resilience.

Resilience is a superpower in the professional world. Companies need people who can bounce back, not just people who have had an easy path.

If you're still putting yourself out there, you're winning in ways that aren't obvious yet.

I had hiring managers relay feedback to me that I thought was unfair.  At the time I was so defeated but if I look back, they may have been right in some aspects.  Don’t waste a second more rehashing it in your head – just go on to the next opportunity.  No one wants to hear this but at some point, you will have to face it:  not every dream will work out, not every path will be available, not every job you thought you wanted will be perfect.  So what.  Plan B.  Keep trying alternates.   

You’re Expanding Your Network

Maybe you’ve reached out to alumni.
Maybe you’ve joined a professional group.
Maybe you’ve set up one or two informational interviews.

That’s huge.

Most jobs are filled through connections, not cold applications. Every relationship you build now can help open doors later — even if it’s not immediate.

You're investing in long-term opportunities, not just short-term wins.

You’re Gaining Skills (Even Outside of a Job)

Have you taken a free online course?
Learned how to use a new tool?
Started a project on your own?

Skill-building doesn't just happen on the job. It happens when you take initiative to keep learning.

Every new skill you add strengthens your resume and your confidence.

You’re Staying Focused on Your Goals

Maybe you’ve turned down offers that didn’t feel right.
Maybe you’re taking the time to figure out what you actually want instead of jumping at the first thing available.

That shows maturity.
It takes strength to stay true to yourself, especially when you feel pressure to just "grab something."

Choosing intentionally — not reactively — sets you up for long-term success.

Final Thoughts:

If you’re still searching, still applying, still learning, and still growing — you are not behind.

You are building a foundation that will carry you much farther than you realize right now.

Progress isn’t always loud.
Sometimes, it looks like quiet perseverance.
Sometimes, it’s invisible — until one day, all your small steps add up to something incredible.

Keep going. You’re closer than you think.

🌟 Want more encouragement, real-world strategies, and practical next steps?
Join the New Grad Navigator community — we help you move from "worried" to "winning" in your first career steps.