Looking for a Job? Little Things Make a Big Difference

November 5, 2009 | Category: Career

A closeup on a job listings web site. In a tough economy, there are usually more people than jobs, which increases competition amongst applicants.

In a crowded field, it’s important to avoid a few common mistakes and pay attention to little things that make a real difference.

With that in mind, we suggest some small actions you can take to be noticed and land a new job.

The Job Search

Search Online They say that searching for a job is a full-time job. By using search sites such as SimplyHired or Hotjobs, you can make the most of your time. Want to work at a non-profit? Try Idealist.org. Also, set up job alert emails and have vacancy notices sent to you on a daily or weekly basis.
Network Talk to friends and family to see if they know someone who is hiring.
Cold Call Contact companies you want to work for to see if they are hiring. Sometimes a position will be available without being listed on the organization’s web site or job search tool.
Build Skills While you’re searching, consider volunteering in your field to gain experience. You can even volunteer online, to give yourself more flexibility.

Writing Your Resume

Robert Half International says “When in doubt, leave it out.” If you have something you aren’t quite sure should go in your resume/cover letter/interview, then it is probably best to omit it. For instance, refrain from mentioning that you hate the morning, that you don’t like wearing formal work clothes or that you hate meetings.
Make sure you have a spectacular resume and cover letter .

Submitted Your Application? Now What?

Remember to call back a week after submitting an application to inquire about the position. This follow up will demonstrate your interest and help you stand out.

The Interview

Be pleasant to the receptionist. If you ignore, are cold to or come across as mean to the receptionist, he or she can inform the hiring manager about that negative impression, which could cost you the job.
Project an outstanding attitude and show enthusiasm. Hiring managers are inclined to hire someone who demonstrates enthusiasm and interest. All things equal, the person with the best attitude will normally win.
Dress appropriately and make sure you turn your cellphone OFF.
When asked about previous work experience, be honest and positive. If you had a bad experience with your previous employer, avoid complaining about him or her. Find a positive spin. For example, “I had differences with my boss but, I learned how to deal with the adversity and complete my work.” Employers like to hear how you were able to turn a bad situation good.

If you are currently unemployed, do not beat yourself up. Times are harder for many individuals. With a little strategy and small behavior and attitude adjustments, you can be well on your way to new employment opportunities. Good luck!

If you have any suggestions for job seekers, be sure to submit them below.

16 comments
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Michel Connlie November 18, 2009 5:02 pm
The search for a job is tearing me down. I feel as though it’s impossible for me to obtain my happiness after such a grulling pursiut. Am I at fault for this punishment? I try day in and day out ,but I still can’t seem to catch my lucky break in life. Every time I put in an application ,and get to thinking this might be the one , but ofcorse they were false hopes just as the last. I want to give up ,but I know that I can’t for I have a wife to provide for ,and bills to pay just like everyone else.

[Reply]
site_admin Reply:
December 8th, 2009 at 6:55 pm
Goodwill Industries has job training and placement programs across the country. To find the Goodwill nearest you, visit http://locator.goodwill.org.

To find jobs at Goodwill, visit our Find a Job page. To find Goodwill career resources in your state, visit our Job Resources page.

We know it’s a rough time and here to try to provide you with as many resources as possible.

We wish you the best.

- Goodwill Industries International, Inc.

[Reply]
katiemaesue November 21, 2009 2:46 pm
I understand that Goodwill also offers jobs with great benefits and a great future. How do I access these jobs?

[Reply]
Steven November 25, 2009 1:02 pm
looking for a position in your company

[Reply]
site_admin November 30, 2009 10:26 am
Steven and Katie,

You can find a listing of jobs available within the Goodwill network by visiting: http://www.goodwill.org/goodwill-for-you/jobs-and-careers/find-a-job/

All the best!

[Reply]
katti December 16, 2009 12:17 pm
i need a job

[Reply]
site_admin Reply:
December 16th, 2009 at 5:49 pm
Goodwill Industries has job training and placement programs across the country. To find the Goodwill nearest you, visit http://locator.goodwill.org, visit our Find a Job page or, check out our Job Resources page.

- Goodwill Industries International, Inc.

[Reply]
deborah courtney January 5, 2010 1:10 pm
please respond regarding a job opening.

[Reply]
site_admin Reply:
January 7th, 2010 at 2:16 pm
Deborah - If you are looking for a job, please visit our “Find a Job” page:
http://www.goodwill.org/goodwill-for-you/jobs-and-careers/find-a-job/

You will be connected to many of the jobs available in our network.

If you are looking for job placement services, please contact your local Goodwill to see what services they offer: http://locator.goodwill.org/

[Reply]
Brenda Warren February 10, 2010 4:36 pm
My goal is to be able to handle any work situation after being in prison for so long. I need serious help getting back in the workfield.

[Reply]
Debby February 17, 2010 11:03 pm
It’s been so hard trying to find a job in the Easy Bay area. I’ve been applying everywhere since I’ve been laid off in October 09′. My EDD will be ending soon and I need help for myself and my little one. Income isn’t coming and bills are piling. I’ve tried looking for a job opening in my area from the Goodwill but there isn’t any. Which Goodwill do I know to go to to ask for job placement or traning? I need help.

-Jobless in the Eastbay.

[Reply]
site_admin Reply:
February 18th, 2010 at 7:51 pm
Debbie - You can locate your local Goodwill using your ZIP code by visiting http://locator.goodwill.org/. This will provide you with contact information for your local Goodwill job placement and training centers. We wish you luck!

[Reply]
Mary Sanchez February 26, 2010 4:22 pm
I have had 2 interviews and to no avail….I wonder if there is an agency where we can have a mock interview and then get the opinions, critics, of a third party , that way next time I know what I have done wrong. I am an excellent employee I just don’t know how I come across and/or what I do wrong. It’s been 15 years since I last had to interview. I am also in my late 40’s so I would like some input or find a place to critic my interviewing skills so I can “get” the job.

[Reply]
site_admin Reply:
March 1st, 2010 at 1:37 pm
Mary - Check with your local Goodwill to see what job placement services they offer. You can locate your local Goodwill by visiting http://locator.goodwill.org/ and entering your ZIP code. Best of luck!

[Reply]
Victoria February 27, 2010 10:52 am
I understand goodwill has a great job placement program. I am a stay home mom/homemaker,my husband has a blind disability and was diagnosed with cancer 4 yrs ago. I am searching to find a part time job that pays decent,and offers benifits for me and the two children.I personally have no disabilities , but most my time is dedicated to my husband and children.i dont have much time for myself so i am looking for job placement that can offer me hrs from 9am -1pm, mon - fri, in the maury county and or marshall county areas.I have many skills in diffrent fields.

[Reply]
site_admin Reply:
March 1st, 2010 at 1:41 pm
Victoria - Please contact your local Goodwill by visiting http://locator.goodwill.org/ and entering your ZIP code. We offer a variety of job training and job placement services and are happy to help you and your family. All the best!

[Reply]

NOTE: If you're looking for a job, please do not post a comment.
Instead, please visit our Career Resources to learn more about our job placement services or our Find a Job page to find openings within the Goodwill network.