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Home > Articles > Your Guide To Getting Hired By Goodwill

Your Guide to Getting Hired by Goodwill

Eager to work at Goodwill? This guide will make it easy to find the jobs you're qualified for and how to get them.

Goodwill Industries employs approximately 105,000 people across its operations. This workforce includes individuals working in Goodwill's stores, donation centers, job training programs, and other community services. The organization operates through a network of over 150 local &Company affiliates, each independently managed, and primarily in the United States and Canada

Common positions at Goodwill include Sales Associate, Donation Attendant, Store Manager, and Job Trainer.

Many Goodwill locations also rely on volunteers and individuals participating in job training programs as part of their workforce. Seasonal demands, such as during the holiday season, can lead to temporary increases in staffing.

Before You Apply

Use this guide to prepare effectively for your next opportunity with Goodwill.

Working at Goodwill

Goodwill employees are expected to provide excellent customer service with a friendly and compassionate attitude while staying organized and focused on the mission. You’ll need to learn quickly, work efficiently, and support a positive and inclusive environment. The top priority for a Goodwill team member is helping customers and contributing to a meaningful shopping experience that supports the community.

Company Culture and Values

✓ Community Impact
✓ Respect and Dignity
✓ Empowerment
✓ Social Responsibility

Benefits and Compensation

✓ Medical Insurance for Full-Time Employees
✓ Paid Parental Leave
✓ Training and Education
✓ Tuition Assistance

References

To make your application stand out at Goodwill, you should consider including an employee referral. The best referrals often come from current employees who can speak to your work capabilities. If you don't have an internal connection there are still ways to distinguish yourself. Strong references from past supervisors, managers, professors, or even colleagues can significantly enhance your application, especially those from other retail environments who can attest to your skills and performance as a retail worker.

When including a reference on your application, make sure to include essential details such as the reference’s full name, job title, the company or organization they represent, and their contact information, including both a phone number and email address. It's very important to inform your references in advance that they may be contacted by the hiring manager so they can prepare to discuss your qualifications. After the process, consider sending a thoughtful thank-you note to express your gratitude for their support.

Resume

To create a strong resume for Goodwill, tailor your application to reflect the qualifications and skills mentioned in the job description. Carefully review the posting to ensure that you include relevant skills such as customer service, teamwork, inventory management, and experience working in a retail environment. Goodwill values community involvement, so highlight any volunteer work or experience that demonstrates your commitment to social responsibility.

To make your resume stand out, consider adding a personal summary at the top that expresses your passion for Goodwill's mission.

Ensure your resume is clear and professional, using black ink only. Bold or italicize headers and subheaders to make key sections stand out, and use clear section titles to organize your experience and skills effectively.

Hiring Process

The hiring process at Goodwill involves several steps to assess candidates for roles such as retail associates, donation attendants, management positions, and support staff.

After applying for an open position through Goodwill’s online job portal or in person, the HR team or hiring manager will review your application to ensure you meet the qualifications for the role. They evaluate your experience, availability, and skills that align with the job description. If you meet the requirements, a hiring manager will contact you to schedule a phone or in-person interview.

During the interview, you may be asked behavioral questions to evaluate your problem-solving skills, teamwork, and alignment with Goodwill's mission and values, such as delivering excellent customer service, working collaboratively, and supporting community-focused initiatives. Examples of potential questions include: "Can you share an example of how you worked as part of a team to solve a problem?" or "How do you stay organized when managing multiple responsibilities?"

Tips for Getting Hired atGoodwill

If working at Goodwill is your aim, applying these tips can give you an edge throughout the hiring process:

Goodwill is committed to empowering people through employment opportunities and social services. Be sure to express your alignment with their mission of community improvement and support for individuals facing barriers to employment.
Goodwill values employees who are passionate about making a difference in their communities. Highlight any volunteer work or community involvement you may have.
Many roles at Goodwill, especially in retail or donation centers, may require you to handle different tasks, such as sorting donations, assisting customers, or managing inventory. Be flexible in your availability and show your willingness to take on a variety of responsibilities.
Goodwill often conducts background checks on applicants due to the nature of their work. Ensure your application is honest, and be ready to discuss any potential concerns during the interview if necessary.

Conclusion

A position at Goodwill might seem hard to come by, but thorough preparation is the key to making a strong impression.

Apply now and take the first step toward a rewarding career!

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