Blog Archives

Basic Resume Writing Guide

5/29/2015

Is resume writing an art or a science? Really, it is a little bit of both. Goodwill Industries of New Mexico knows a thing or two about employment, since the organization has been helping people in our state find jobs and improve their job skills since 1941. Here, I’ll apply some Goodwill wisdom and suggest some best practices when it comes to crafting your perfect resume to land you the job of your dreams.

The resume is the cornerstone of a successful job search. Despite so many applications being submitted online, most employers still look for an attractive and well written resume from every potential employee. So- what works? First of all, remember that this is your first chance to impress your future employer! You should always display confidence that you’ll get the job done. Think of it this way, your potential employer has a need that must be filled. Use language and present yourself as the solution to that problem. Make sure that you communicate that you are a team player who is ready to start contributing form day one!

In addition to confidence, make sure that your resume is relevant. When you’re taking a seat at your computer to write your resume, you’re going to have to decide what to include. Here are some basics that tend to go over well with most employers:

Summary
Objective
Training
Work history
References

You don’t necessarily have to include all of these to create the best resume for your unique skill sets and the position that you want, but all of these can be worthwhile in the right context.

The last key strategy for finding the perfect job for you in New Mexico is to use some “power words” in your resume. You can find lots of information on effective verbs to use in your written materials and in your interview through online databases, but across the board these words tend to reflect leadership and managerial skills (think words like management, development, and knowledge). Incorporate these words, but just remember, you don’t need too many- resumes between 600 and 700 words in length usually are rated highest by employers.

If you need help finding a job in New Mexico, remember that Goodwill is more than just a thrift store. You can find resources there that will boost your appeal to employers in all sorts of fields. Get in touch with a local Goodwill representative for more advice in your job hunt. Now get out there and get your dream job, tiger!

About The Author
Maggie Grimason is a blog writer living in Albuquerque, NM. She grew up in a family of social servants and teachers in northern Indiana and finds that blogging for Goodwill Industries of New Mexico satisfies creative energies as well as her commitment to ethical living and community service.

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Closet Staples for the Budget Shopper: Stylin' at Goodwill!

5/23/2015

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Are you bored with your winter clothes? It happens every spring. Thank goodness the weather is getting warmer in Albuquerque and we can shed some layers! Are you ready to revamp your closet? If you’re a savvy shopper on a budget, there’s no time like the present to hit up local Goodwill stores and thrift your way to savings for spring basics.

It’s true. Fashion can be overwhelming, especially for those without a lot to spend. Luckily, New Mexico’s Goodwill stores offer lots of trendy pieces that never go out of style, all at thrift store prices. This post will guide you to some universal staples that every girl should have in her closet. These pieces are adaptable, great for nearly any event, and require minimal fashion accessory supplements, and best of all- they’re all readily available at a neighborhood Goodwill store.

1. A pair of black high heels Black high heels are one of my go to pieces. You can instantly dress up even the most basic combo of denim and a blouse with the right pair of shoes. Whether you’re heading to the office or an after hours event, black high heels go with anything and instantly elevate your look.

2. Black cocktail dress You’ve heard it once, you’ve heard it a thousand times - have a “little black dress” go-to for any event. A black cocktail dress is casual enough for spring and summer barbecues on the back porch, but easily adaptable for an evening out or a work function. When you’re equipped with the right dress from Goodwill, you’re ready to take on anything.

3. A pair of dark wash jeans Casual Fridays? Easy. Grocery shopping on Sunday afternoon? They’ve got you covered. A sophisticated pair of jeans in a dark wash are comfortable as well as classy. Pair them with a t-shirt and head to an Isotopes game or put on a work appropriate blouse and you’re ready to ease into the office. Denim is easy and versatile, and perfect for the warm days and cool nights of spring.

4. A basic pencil skirt The pencil skirt is a universally flattering look that is easy to come by on the expansive racks of any thrift store worth its salt. This classic look is perfect for a morning espresso in Nob Hill when paired with a short sleeve blouse, or brings together a classy work-ready combo with a colorful sweater. Keep the color of your skirt basic and you go with a top of any pattern or color.

5. Black flats Comfort is key in lots of scenarios. Be ready for an impromptu walk along the Bosque or just about anything with these key versatile shoes. Dress them up, or dress them down! Just like everything on our list, you can find these easily at Goodwill and get tons of use out of them this spring!

Enjoy the season with us at Goodwill and amplify your style with these basics, too! Have questions about what we do and where to shop? Get in touch with Goodwill Industries of New Mexico!

About the Author
Maggie Grimason is a blog writer living in Albuquerque, NM. She grew up in a family of social servants and teachers in northern Indiana and finds that blogging for Goodwill Industries of New Mexico satisfies creative energies as well as her commitment to ethical living and community service.

Heels in the "Collections by GW" section

Coldwater Creek dark wash jeans

Textured skirt found at 5000 San Mateo location

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Questions to Ask Before You Donate

5/19/2015

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If you’re looking to donate your treasures to a local nonprofit, you’ve got a lot of choices. There are a wealth of nonprofits that operate thrift stores throughout the nation and across New Mexico that are happy to accept the resources that you no longer need- but how do you determine which nonprofit is the right choice for you to donate to? You can arrive at that answer by asking a nonprofit some simple questions. One reason Goodwill has been so successful is transparency and a strong commitment to giving back to the communities in New Mexico. Whether you choose to donate your goods to a Goodwill store near you or another local thrift store or charity, make sure you’re giving to a charity that is meaningful to YOU by asking these essential questions.

1. What is the nonprofit’s mission?
As a donor, you want a clear picture of what you are supporting, so ask about the nonprofit’s mission and work. Most of the time, the representative will give you a clear picture of the organization’s background, mission statement, growth, and achievements as well as how your donation helps to further these goals. Being able to imagine your impact is powerful!

2. What outcomes result from their work?
How does the nonprofit measure what they do in the community? It is important that your charity of choice be able to describe the impact their work is having on related issues in New Mexico. What changes resulted from their work? We bet they’ll be excited to talk about their work and what it means.

3. How much of the donation actually makes it to the intended recipients?
Supporting a newly established nonprofit can mean higher administrative costs (whether or not your donation is monetary), while an established charity might be able to deliver a higher percentage of the donated material to populations that the organization was established to support. Neither is right or wrong- it is all about what makes you feel good and comfortable!

No matter which organization you choose to give to, you should feel great about your decision to donate! Thinking of donating to Goodwill? Get all the details here!

About The Author
Maggie Grimason is a blog writer living in Albuquerque, NM. She grew up in a family of social servants and teachers in northern Indiana and finds that blogging for Goodwill Industries of New Mexico satisfies creative energies as well as her commitment to ethical living and community service.

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Lilly Pulitzer and Other Big Brands Found at Goodwill

5/1/2015

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Have you thrifted lately? If you’re a Lilly Pulitzer clothing fan and you answered “no,” then you may want to drive to your nearest Goodwill thrift store right now!

Pulitzer’s designs are all the rage right now as evident by the recent swoon of Target shoppers … many waiting in line and buying in bulk to resell on sites like eBay and Etsy. But why wait in line or pay hundreds of dollars for a must-have design when you can swing by your local Goodwill?

Our donation processors recently discovered some great Lilly Pulitzer brand dresses and tops. All are brand new and priced at a fraction of their retail value. One piece even still has its brand new tags.

In addition to Pulitzer, we regularly put out big brand names for just a few dollars each. That adds up to big savings. Brands like Coach, Ann Taylor, Ralph Lauren, Michael Kors, Talbots and many others often grace our racks and Collections by GW section.

So if you haven’t already, give Goodwill a try. You may just find a super trendy piece that you’re dying to wear!

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