A little bit of kindness goes a long way, especially when you are talking about your professional life. They may never make a movie about the professional who used kindness to get to the top, but being a nice, polite, and caring person is hugely beneficial to your success. Here are four specific instances where being kind can play a big factor in helping you find your next job:

Networking: Pay It Forward—Pay It Back

Did you know that being referred to a job will increase your chances of being hired by nearly 300%? Knowing someone who can get you an “in” somewhere is always the best way to get the inside track on the job. Being kind and generous with your network is not only the right thing to do, but it also makes sure that it will be there when you need it. Even if you are on the search for your own job, be there to help your friends and associates find a job. The gratitude from your network and the employers or recruiters/employment services you refer to has a tendency to return to you in even greater measure.

On The Phone: Etiquette Matters

While phone calls may seem less formal than face-to-face interactions, keep it as professional as you would if the person was sitting across from you. Be kind, courteous, and helpful. Answer any unknown or blocked phone number as if you were answering a call from a target company, and treat every person you talk to, from Hiring Managers to receptionists, like they were the ones making decisions. Companies will take your phone etiquette into account when they make a decision.

Interview Day: Be Kind and Polite to Everyone

Consider yourself always under observation during your interview. From the moment you get into the parking lot, your interactions will be noticed and considered in their ultimate hiring decisions.  Be polite and courteous with everyone you see, from those you interact with while parking your car, to the receptionist who greets you (know that the Hiring Manager will ask the receptionist their impression of you). You don’t need to go overboard, but considering that the person you hold open the door for may be involved in the decision, treat everyone like you would like to be treated.

After The Interview: Thank You Cards Make an Impact

It may seem like a small thing, but handwritten Thank You cards do make an impact. A short and sweet card showing that you appreciate the time and effort the Hiring Manager and their team spent is important. To make an even bigger impact, bring the card with you to the interview and drop it off on your way out. This creates an immediate human connection and makes sure that your card is among the first that the manager will see.