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Debra Wheatman, President of Careers Done Write, provides expert insight to the job search process that puts your career in gear with tips for interviewing, networking, job search strategies and how to create a winning resume and cover letter.

Is It Worth It to Work Yourself to the Bone?
Debra Wheatman Debra Wheatman

Is It Worth It to Work Yourself to the Bone?

Language is symbolic, and one of the most commonly used structures of symbolic language is idiomatic expression. An idiomatic expression conveys meaning via metaphoric rather than literal expression. The meaning of an idiom cannot be inferred from the definitions of the words that comprise it. Break the ice. Cut corners. Piece of cake. Break a leg. Kill two birds with one stone. These are just a few examples of idioms that permeate vernacular English. A common idiom used in reference to work and labor is working oneself to the bone….

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Ask Deb: Why Was I Rejected for a Low-Paying Retail Job?
Debra Wheatman Debra Wheatman

Ask Deb: Why Was I Rejected for a Low-Paying Retail Job?

The company I worked for was acquired by a larger company in the same industry, and I, along with many of my colleagues, was summarily laid off. A few weeks ago, I decided that I needed to do something, and for the sake of my sanity, I had to get out of my house more frequently than my daily walk with the dog or my trip to the mailbox. I applied to be a stocker at my local Trader Joe’s. I thought my experience in managing inventory and improving processes would make me a good candidate. I spoke with the store manager, who told me to apply online. I applied online. A week later, I got a typical rejection email about hiring candidates with better qualifications. I have gone from managing contracts valued at 7 figures to being unable to secure a retail job! What is going on with this job market?….

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As If the Job Market Wasn’t Bad Enough, Intuit Makes Things Exponentially Worse
Job Market Trends Debra Wheatman Job Market Trends Debra Wheatman

As If the Job Market Wasn’t Bad Enough, Intuit Makes Things Exponentially Worse

This week, software company Intuit laid off about 1800 people or 10% of their workforce. As if that was not bad enough, CEO Sasan Goodarzi publicly announced that about 1050 employees being let go were underperforming and not meeting expectations, effectively branding any former Intuit employee looking for a job now as a poor performer….

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Don’t Be a Martyr for the Cause
General Debra Wheatman General Debra Wheatman

Don’t Be a Martyr for the Cause

You need to think of yourself as the CEO of your career, which means always thinking about what is best for you. You are a free agent.

The most essential asset in your career is you. Prioritize your well-being, set boundaries, and ensure your professional journey aligns with your personal values and health. Do not sacrifice yourself for an employer. Ever….

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What to Expect from the Job Market in 2024
Job Market Trends Debra Wheatman Job Market Trends Debra Wheatman

What to Expect from the Job Market in 2024

Despite the challenges presented by recent global events, hiring trends for 2024 indicate a renewed sense of optimism. Research from MIT’s Sloan School of Management shows that 39% of hiring leaders said they plan to increase their financial commitment toward hiring in 2024, and 70% of surveyed U.S. job seekers were somewhat or very confident about their prospects of finding new jobs. Here is what to expect from the job market as we enter 2024….

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