Dust Off Your Resume: Amanda Green’s Job Search Success Story

In this job search success story, Amanda Green, director of finance and administration for Oregon Consumer Justice (OCJ), shares how word of mouth and support from friends and a recruiter played a pivotal role in her quick, successful job search.

What do you do for a career? Who do you work for? 

I’m a CPA specializing in nonprofit financial leadership. I work for nonprofits with missions that are aligned with my personal values. I currently work as the director of finance and administration for Oregon Consumer Justice (OCJ). 

How long did it take you to find this job? 

This particular job hunt was relatively quick. I wasn’t exactly on the market, but I had two friends who were familiar with my background and interests that saw the job with OCJ posted on Mac’s List, told me it was a perfect fit, and encouraged me to apply.

How did you find your job? What resources did you use? What tool or tactic helped the most? 

The only resource I used for this job was word of mouth, which led me to the Mac’s List listing. I think the resource that helped the most was talking through the job posting with the recruiter I worked with and the interview process itself. I was able to clarify my understanding of both the job and the organization so that I knew it was a good fit for my skill set and professional personality.  

What was the most difficult part of your job search? How did you overcome this challenge? 

Getting my resume in shape was a bit of a bear. I wasn’t looking, so I needed a quick turnaround when I discovered this job. I had a few friends help me edit it. I also worked with a recruiter working for the organization I applied to who gave me feedback on my resume and helped me prep for the interview process. 

What is the single best piece of advice you would offer other job-seekers? 

Dust off your resume, as you never know when the right job will find you. If you are actively searching, put it out there to all of your friends and networks. They might be the people that lead you to the job. Also, consider working with a recruiter. They will do a lot of the legwork for you and even help you with your resume, which is invaluable. 

Why do you love your job? 

My team! I work with an amazingly talented and values-aligned group of people. That’s rare and wonderful. I’m so excited about the work we’re doing together. 

Everyone’s job search story is different, but each individual story can inspire and empower others who are on their own unique path. We love to hear how our readers have found rewarding careers in Portland, and we want to share these stories with you to inspire you in your job search and to help us all better understand the local job market!