“Having a good attitude goes a long way in a job search,” a hiring decision-maker recently told me. We were talking about what makes a job candidate stand out from the crowd. In a close race between two job candidates, a gracious attitude does make a difference.
As job seekers prepare for their job search, developing personal branding statements and introductions, one of the most over- looked pieces of the puzzle is a genuine attitude of goodwill.
Here’s an example of how an attitude of goodwill can work for you: Several months ago, a candidate had an interview, then was asked back three times to meet with the staff he would be managing as well as the senior management team. Everything appeared to be moving ahead. Then the company representative called to tell the candidate someone else had gotten the job. They told him they would keep his resume on file for future openings.
It was a difficult conversation. Naturally, the candidate was disappointed, but he decided to write a thank-you letter conveying his gratitude for their time and consideration. This was not a form letter but rather an expression of genuine interest and desire to keep in touch with them in case they needed help in the future.
Two months passed. This candidate found a couple more good leads and was planning to broaden his search to other cities when he received a call from the hiring decision-maker, who informed him the position was open again and asked if he would still be interested. As you can imagine, the job candidate was interested, and within a week he received an offer, accepted it and had a start date.
Even though he was very disappointed at not being chosen initially, this job candidate’s attitude got the employer’s attention. It got him remembered. When the search for a replacement took place, they called him immediately. He had never left their minds, and his thank-you letter was part of the reason they called him again.
Being memorable starts with being genuine and having a good attitude, even when decisions don’t go your way.
Having a thankful spirit is contagious and will help you stand out. Take the time to follow up with people who have helped you and express your appreciation.
This is a great time of year to reach out and thank recruiters, networking contacts, colleagues and employers who have shown interest in your background.
You never know when a thank-you letter will turn into an opportunity.
