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.
Should I include an educational section on résumé if it's unrelated to the field I am pursuing?
Dear Deb, I moved here from China more than 20 years ago. In my native country, I earned a medical type degree. However, the degree is only the equivalent of an Associate’s degree in the USA. I would need to start at a USA medical school from the beginning. So, I have been working as…
Is it phony to include boastful statements on a résumé?
Dear Deb: My company offered me résumé writing services after I was laid off in March. I am uncomfortable with what the writer did. I think it is so phony to create a designer résumé with a summary paragraph all kinds of boastful statements. That’s just not me. I would rather just list my jobs…
What can I do in my job search to find a company that is a match for me?
Dear Deb: I am gay and it is really important for me to work for a company that accepts me. I have no intention of hiding who I am. At company parties, I want to be able to bring my husband without whispers. Having benefits for my husband is important too. At the same time,…
Can I ask a potential employer to pay my travel expenses for an out of town interview?
Hi Deb: Is it OK to ask a hiring company to pay for my airline ticket and hotel to an out-of-state first interview? Thanks, Sean Dear Sean, Many times a large employer seeking candidates outside of their geographic area will pay for transportation and hotel expenses, especially for senior management positions. Some smaller companies may not…
Is it okay to note that you're a contractor on your linked in profile?
Hi Debra, I was wondering if you could answer a question for me. I'm currently in a contract position. Is it okay to note that you're a contractor on your linked in profile while you continue to look for a perm position? Are there any pros? cons? to doing so. Thanks so much for your…
Can employers checking credit reports?
Dear Deb: I just interviewed for a job and they asked for permission to check my credit records. They said that they would provide me with a copy of the report they receive. I don’t have anything to hide. I am just concerned about this employer and if they are going to make a practice…
What personal details am I required to include on my CV?
Dear Deb: I am a U.S. citizen, living and working in the U.S. I am considering relocating to the U.K. What personal details am I required to include on my U.K. CV? Thanks, Carla H. Dear Carla: In the not-so-distant past, you would have included date of birth, gender, marital status, driving record, and citizenship. However,…
I made a mistake leaving my last job for another opportunity
Dear Deb, I made the biggest mistake! I quit my job six months ago. I was at that job for more than five years. I thought this new position with a higher salary would be better. I was promised the chance at a more profitable territory. So far, that has not happened. The salary is…
Should I include expired licenses on my résumé?
Dear Deb, I have two professional licenses that expired in 2008. Should I include them on my résumé? Thank you, Patrick Dear Patrick: If these licenses are relevant to your current career goal, I assume that you are working toward reinstating these licenses. If this is the case, you should include this on your résumé. …
Is it OK to put a job on a résumé if you did not get paid?
Dear Deb, I began working for my husband’s photography studio soon after graduating college. I have been there in a full-time capacity for the last 8 years. It’s the only job I have had, with the exception of working in the campus bookstore part-time in college. I don’t how to address this on a résumé because…