My Story: Richard Nickell

When I was released from prison for crimes I committed in the past, I came to a shelter in Des Moines, IA. I was hoping to find a job and start to rebuild my life. I’m the kind of person who’s kind of obstinate and I want to do things my own way. But, when I found Justin at the Goodwill of Central Iowa Career Center, I tried to learn from him.

I was just looking for the right fit for my skills. I like to work, I show up. I’m dependable, and in this business you need that. I started working at Embassy Suites in November 2013. I work in housekeeping, but I fill in in the lobby when I’m needed.

It takes a lot of effort to work. You have to be one to show up and help out others. You try to plan ahead too. There’s a lot of right ways to get a job done. There’s more than one way to get it finished. I try to take my time and do a good job. Some people might be a little quicker, but I’ve always been one to try to do a good job at a steady pace.

When I won Employee of the Month I didn’t think that I did anything more than what was required. I really hope that what I do helps the next person achieve their goal. I don’t want to be boastful. I want everybody else to glean something or to get to that point where they feel they can do this too. I can always find ways to better myself. I think there’s always ways you can improve.

It’s nice to work around good people and to take what they give you and try to better yourself, or to help the company profit. Without the guests coming in, my job wouldn’t be there.