Remember How Your PhD Was a Marathon, Not a Sprint? So Is Your Job Search.

Remember how you were told in grad school that getting your PhD is "a marathon, not a sprint"? (If I had a quarter for every time I heard that in school...) Well, the job market is not too different. If you’ve been on the job market recently, you already know: this is not a quick process. Between hiring freezes, layoffs, and hundreds of applicants for every role, landing a new position often takes longer than expected.

That doesn’t mean you’re doing anything wrong. It means the job search is a marathon, not a sprint.

And like earning your PhD or actually running a marathon, you need a strategy to pace yourself, conserve your energy, and stay motivated along the way.

1. Set Realistic Milestones

Instead of expecting results in weeks, think in months. Give yourself achievable benchmarks:

• Update your resume and LinkedIn by the end of this month

• Apply to 3–5 quality roles a week (not 30 rushed applications)

• Schedule one networking conversation per week

These milestones keep you moving forward without burning out.

2. Build Rest and Recovery Into Your Plan

Just like runners don’t train every day, you shouldn’t spend every waking hour on applications.

• Take intentional breaks.

• Protect time for hobbies, exercise, or community.

• Remember: balance is not a luxury—it’s part of your strategy.

A rested you is a more confident, creative, and resilient you.

3. Track Your Progress

When the process stretches out, it’s easy to feel like nothing is happening. That’s rarely true.

• Keep a spreadsheet or journal of jobs applied to, networking calls, and follow-ups.

• Celebrate small wins: a callback, a strong LinkedIn connection, a skill you’ve strengthened.

Progress builds momentum—even if the final offer takes time.

4. Diversify Your Training

Marathoners don’t just run; they cross-train. The same applies here.

• Strengthen your professional “muscles” by taking a short course, volunteering, or doing contract work.

• Expanding your skills keeps you market-ready and gives you new talking points for interviews.

5. Build Your Support Crew

No marathoner runs alone. Surround yourself with people who keep you motivated and grounded.

• Connect with peers in transition—shared experiences help normalize the ups and downs.

• Lean on mentors, coaches, or professional groups.

• Share your wins and frustrations with people who “get it.”

Final Thought

This job market is tough, and the journey can feel endless. But with the right pacing, support, and perspective, you will reach the finish line.

The marathon mindset reminds you that your career isn’t defined by one sprint—it’s built over time, with endurance, strategy, and resilience.

© 2025 Marya T. Mtshali. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior written permission from the author.