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Job Search THANKSgiving
Thanksgiving is season to celebrate the harvest of the land, and to thank God for the bounty and challenges in our lives – both of which make us stronger.
The following are a few thoughts on the opportunities and benefits of using thanks in your job search.
In previous articles, we have noted that as you are seeking a job, you should assume everyone at the jobsite has the ability to either hire you, or at least have an influence on seeing that you are not hired if you are rude or inconsiderate. You should grace everyone you meet with kindness and your best manners, leaving them with a positive feeling about your ability to get along with other employees and the public.
Generally, employers simply take the applicant’s word that they can do the job, as pre-employment proficiency tests are expensive and rarely used. The real test of whether the person can do the job comes after that person actually begins work. Since employers don’t really know whether you can do the job or not, it’s important to know some of the other factors that are considered in the hiring process. These factors may vary slightly, depending on whether you will work directly with customers.
After determining that the applicant can do the work, the most important factor is how the person will fit in at the worksite. Whether you will work with customers or other employees, there are very few jobs where you don’t work around other people. Someone who is good at the job, but alienates others because of an abrasive personality or a short temper creates more problems than good. These people go from job to job, not recognizing that there is more to the job than doing the task – they must also be part of a team.
During the interview, let the employer know that you understand the importance of a positive attitude, and the ability to get along with the public and fellow employees. As the interview ends, thank the employer for the time they took to speak with you, and tell them you look forward to hearing from them. If there was someone at the business that was particularly helpful in providing information or offering a friendly smile, mention that person by name to the interviewer.
Be prepared to leave a hand written thank you note for the interviewer, expressing your interest in working for the company and again thanking them for the opportunity to discuss your skills and interests in their business. Ask the receptionist to get the note to the interviewer as soon as possible. Employers will often make a decision on whom to hire even before the interviews are complete. Don’t miss your chance to further influence that decision by waiting until the next day to send the thank you note. After delivering the thank you note, personally thank anyone that was particularly helpful in the employment process. It won’t hurt to leave others with a positive impression.
Finally, don’t forget previous employers as you are looking for job leads. Call to thank them for the chance they gave you to work there, and ask whether they are aware of any job openings, either there, or with other employers.
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in looking for employment, drop by the
If you need more assistance, contact us, or call us at (559) 585-3532.