Every person you come in contact with could be a potential network reference for your job search. Something as simple as manners can make the difference that could land you a job. They can get you noticed, improve your chances of being mentioned to others, and help you to be remembered by a potential employer at an interview. The impression you leave is up to you, will it be a winning impression?

Being polite goes a long way whether on the phone or in person. You’ve seen the movie scene where someone cuts someone else off in traffic, steals an available taxi from someone else, or says something in appropriate to a slow stranger while they are racing to get to the next interview or appointment. Only to find out the person who they have treated so poorly is exactly who they need to impress. Unfortunately this occurs more often then it should.

How can you improve your manners? Practice makes perfect so you can start by opening doors for others, letting someone in during traffic, offering your seat to someone or just remembering to say “Thank You”. Not only will you improve your manners but I guarantee you will be happier during your day. Intentionally helping others, because you want to, always make you feel good.

Along those same lines, is the importance of being friendly. A genuine smile is worth so much to anyone receiving it. Try asking how someone’s day is going or how a personal situation is turning out. Making a point to show interest in someone through friendly conversation will build a bond or rapport that will likely grow. Sometimes the simplest gestures leave the most lasting impressions. On the other end of the spectrum, if something doesn’t go your way, laugh it off. Although the first instinct is to yell or make an unkind remark (or gestures), taking a deep breath; smiling or laughing over the incident will help you stay calm and others from feeling uncomfortable.

Another tip for improving your manners and getting you noticed is using people’s names. When you meet new people or when greeting people you already know, try and use their name in the greeting. This will make them feel good about the relationship with you and make them feel important. Everyone loves to hear their name said. The problem is remembering names and for most people it can be difficult. Some easy tricks to remembering names include looking directly at the person and repeating the name out loud after you have been introduced the first time. Try to find ways to associate their name with something to help your remember, another person with the same name, a place or something else. When someone you know is walking up find the association with the name so you are ready to greet them using their name. Remembering names’ is a habit, so the more you practice the easier it will become.

How is being nice going to improve your job search? The professional benefits are endless! The friendlier you are to strangers and those you know, the more likely they will engage you in conversation which can lead to an outstanding networking contacts. Helping someone whose briefcase has just spilled all over the restaurant floor, you might find yourself with the CEO or Hiring Manager of a company you would love to work for. It may even be their spouse, or child, but friendly conversation could unearth your common interest in an industry, profession or company and establish a strong reference. You never know the impact you have on others. Try making it your goal to do 2, 3 or 5 things for others each day. It will get you noticed and improve your job search.

While going through the interview process remember to be use your newly improved manners on all employees you meet. You might smile or say “Hello” to the son, or very valued confidante of the Hiring Manager. Smile, speak clearly and use proper English, slang terms are great for after work but while interviewing make sure you try and speak correctly. Any company will want a well spoken employee especially if the job involves working with customers, outside affiliates or the public. Make sure you send a thank you note to all participants of your interview process including those you interviewed with and the contact that referred you for the position.

Manners still matter in today’s busy and competitive world. Having a friendly and inviting approach during your job search and networking activities could give you the competitive advantage over another with similar job skills and experience. When the competition heats up it will be the seemingly small things like company fit and pleasant manners that will make the difference and get you hired.