The JobSync Blog
The Power of Gratitude: a Thanksgiving Approach to Job Seeking
November 23, 2011
With Thanksgiving upon us, jobseekers have a lot to be thankful for. The economy has improved over the last two years, hiring remains robust in several sectors, and jobseekers have access to more tools and information to aid them in their job search than ever before. And what else can job hunters be grateful for? Gratitude itself.
The ancient Roman philosopher Cicero once noted that “Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues, but the parent of all the others.” For instance, wisdom, humility, contentment, and decency are all the offspring of gratitude. And aren’t these the kinds of virtues that make candidates desirable to a company regardless of the company’s corporate culture?
In addition, as psychology professor Sonja Lyubomirsky points out on Gratefulness.org, gratitude can also make you happier, boost your self-esteem, help you cope with stress, and not take the good things in your life for granted. And the upside for your job search? If you feel attractive on the inside, you will appear attractive on the outside to prospective recruiters and hiring managers. And if that weren’t enough, Lyubomirsky also asserts that gratitude can help you build social bonds – networking, anyone?
Still wondering if you should write that thank-you note to your last interviewer? Not only is this rarely used gesture an invaluable opportunity to boost your case to a company, but it will ultimately serve you well personally in the long run if you infuse it with genuine gratitude.
Gratitude is life’s gravy, so don’t forget to pour it on thick as you celebrate Thanksgiving this year.
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