Mother really does know best — even when it comes to career advice.

Here are five pieces of advice, compiled by staffing service OfficeTeam, that you may have heard from your mother that now could be helpful in landing a new position in a challenging economy.

1. “Mind your manners”

This is especially important when checking in with a company’s receptionist prior to an interview: Six out of 10 hiring managers surveyed by OfficeTeam said they value their assistant’s opinion when making hiring decisions. So go out of your way to be nice to everyone, from the executive assistant to the parking attendant, when you’re meeting with a potential employer.

2. “If you don’t have anything nice to say …”

There are few bigger turn-offs for hiring managers than listening to a potential employee vent about his or her former company, co-workers or boss. While you want to give authentic responses to interview questions, focus on what you bring to the table, not slights from your past.

3. “Do your homework”

Researching the prospective employer is the most important step prior to applying for any job. Tailor your resume and cover letter to the opportunity, making note of how your skills can contribute to the company’s immediate needs. In the interview, use what you learn about a firm to ask intelligent questions that demonstrate your understanding of the business.

4. “Don’t sell yourself short”

Your resume shouldn’t be a laundry list of former job duties. Instead, highlight your achievements, quantifying your contributions wherever possible. But be selective in the successes you highlight. Ultimately you want to emphasize those that are most relevant. Your stellar college GPA, if you graduated more than a decade ago, isn’t the crowning achievement it once was.

5. “Always send a thank-you note”

Yes, mom was right. Employers do pay attention. In fact, nearly nine out of 10 executives polled by OfficeTeam company said sending a thank-you note can boost a person’s chances of landing a job.