Blog
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.
What to do when an interviewer doesn't let you speak?
Dear Deb: Best yet on how to have a successful phone interview. Yet, I need guidance on an issue I have never seen addressed anywhere: While this article advises the interviewee to neither interrupt nor drone on, what does the interviewee do if the interviewer is guilty of one or both? I was recently on…
Résumés for college students looking for part time work
Dear Deb: My daughter is in college at UNLV and applying for a part-time job at a local coffee shop. I offered to help with her résumé, but she insists that she only needs to complete an application. Is this true? Linda M., Las Vegas, NV Dear Linda: Giving advice to teens and young adults…
Interviewing to Find a Full Time Job
Dear Deb: Q. I have been doing temporary consulting work since 2000. I returned to school for my Master’s degree and graduated last year with the idea that I would return to full-time permanent employment. I have gotten first interviews, but nothing beyond that. It is very frustrating. I want to be back at work at a full-time…
Addressing a prior felony conviction when job hunting
Dear Deb: 14 years ago, while in college, I was intoxicated and disorderly at a football game. It was a stupid incident that I regret and it resulted in a felony conviction. I earned my degree in engineering. I am a husband and father of two. Each summer I go on a two-week mission to…
How many years of experience should be included on a Résumé?
Dear Deb: I worked as a systems analyst and project manager for IBM from 1984 to 1994. After that, I shifted into a sales engineering role. I still lead projects, but my main role is relationship building. I have read that I should only show 10 to 15 years of experience. However, I want to…
Listing Every Job on Résumés
Dear Deb, Q: I just met with a recruiter. He represents some of the biggest healthcare companies on the East Coast and he’s been in the business for 15+ years, so I think he knows what he’s doing. He told me that I must list every job on my resume, include months and years, and…
MBA or Statistics Cert Program for Marketing Research
Dear Deb, Q. I am interested in Market Research opportunities. I've been in the communications field for the past 10 years and it has natural overlaps in this field. In exploring opportunities, requirements sometimes list MBA or stats program certification. What do you recommend in order to be a strong candidate for this field? Best, AW,…
Senior Level Job Search in 2011: Good Idea or Not?
Dear Deb, Q. I have been at the same job for the past six years; while I am comfortable, I would like to take my career to the next level. However, I am concerned that there are no jobs out there. The news reports are so dismal. I am wondering if I should keep waiting…
Résumé Length: How Long is Too Long?
Dear Deb, Q. I had a spirited debate with my colleague last week about résumé length. He thinks a résumé should be only one page no matter what. I, on the other hand, feel that it is okay to have even a 6-page résumé if you have a lengthy career history. Is there a rule…
Finding a Job at a Small Business
Dear Deb, Q. I have always worked in a large corporate environment, but given the downturn in the economy, I was wondering if it might be wise to pursue roles in smaller companies. What are the best ways to research smaller organizations? ~ TD, Colorado A. This is an excellent and very timely question because…