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.
Spiritual Healing on Your Résumé?
Dear Deb: I am an insurance claims manager for a national property and casualty company. That’s been my day job for 15 years. My passion is spiritual healing. I discovered that I had the gift during my college years. I also practice massage therapy. Recently I wrote a book about my journey as a healer.…
How Much Detail on a Project Manager’s Résumé
Dear Deb: I am a civil engineer with 13 years of experience. My résumé is 5 pages long because of the many projects in my career. In my field it is important to show several details of the project, like budget, type work done, local government involved, and other details. My recruiter said the résumé…
Music Experience on Accountant’s Résumé?
Dear Deb: I was a concert pianist in the late 1980s and early 1990s. I had to start a career in accounting to make ends meet. My husband said that I should omit my musical experience from my résumé. I had ten years in my adult life during which I played in regional concerts with…
Dueling Bosses
Hi Debra, I have recently taken on a dual role within my company; reporting to two different bosses on two different jobs. While everyone was admittedly nervous about this split, it had been working. Until about two weeks ago. The two people I report to are having issues and I feel stuck in the middle;…
When to Disclose Pregnancy
Dear Deb, After applying for a job recently I found out I'm pregnant. I was 7 weeks along when called for an interview then after a great interview I was told an offer is on its way. I'm struggling with when to disclose my pregnancy. I have a history of miscarriage so ideally I wouldn't…
Speaking Negatvely About Your Last Employer?
Dear Deb: If you are asked what you liked least about your last employer, what would be the best way to frame an answer so that you are not speaking negatively of them? Thank You, Jim Hi Jim: You should never speak poorly about your past employer - ever. This is a cardinal sin. If…
Show High School Diploma on Resume?
Hi Debra, I am 52yrs old with a very good financial resume. However, I only have a High School Diploma. Should I put that on my resume or leave it out? Thanks, Paula Dear Paula, Your many years in the finance industry far outweigh your lack of a college degree. Your work history and accomplishments…
Best Practices for Resume Follow-up
Dear Deb: I have a general question on the cover letter...What is the best way to follow up after sending out my cover letter/resume? Email? Call them? Request that they call me? What if it's for a "cold call"...i.e. there is no position/job opening and I am just trying to generate something with the DoR…
OK to Indicate Race on My Resume
Dear Deb: I am not sure if I should put that I am a member of the Black Women’s MBA Association on my resume? I heard that you are not to put anything on a resume that indicates race, religion, or political affiliation. What’s appropriate? Thank you, Melinda Dear Melinda: Great question! Under the laws…
The Lunch Interview – What Do I Order?
Dear Deb: I got the call for a second interview! We’re meeting for lunch at La Villa Italia. What is the proper thing to order? Honestly, I think I will be too nervous to eat. Is it alright just to order an iced tea? Any suggestions? Thanks, Carla Dear Carla: The lunch interview invitation is…