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.
Do I need to reveal that I am not a citizen on my resume?
Dear Deb: I am a citizen of Italy. I have been working at a university as a researcher in the United States for six years. Our study is coming to a conclusion in six months. I am beginning to network to find a new placement. Do I need to state my citizenship and status on…
How to explain a termination when asked in interview
Dear Debra: I was fired in my last job as a customer service agent due to excessive tardiness and absences. What do I say if I am asked about it? I had a new baby. I learned my lesson and in my next job, I will 1) get a job closer to home, 2.) use…
Are life experience degrees impressive to employers?
Dear Deb: I only completed one year of college due to lack of funding. Also, I was successful in my part-time sales position and ultimately, that became a career which has provided an excellent income. Now, I feel deficient because I don’t have a degree. I have researched the possibility of getting a life experience…
How many credentials after a name on a resume?
Dear Debra: I have my credentials at the top of my resume and cover letter just after my name. A recruiter told me that this is an overload. Here is what I show: “Marcia Bolen, MST, PA, BSA, ABA, RTRP, CBM, CDFA, CMA, CFE.” What do you think? Thank you, Marcia Dear Marcia: Wow, you…
Completed Courses at Community College
Dear Deb: I attended a community college for two years and then transferred to a more prestigious school for the last two years, culminating in my Bachelor of Business Administration. Do I need to list the community college on my resume? I did not earn a degree there, just completed a bunch of courses allowing…
Interested in the Same Position as a Friend
Dear Deb: My friend is applying for a job that she is in no way qualified to perform. She does not even have the basic education and knows nothing about finance, audits, or accounting. On the other hand, I am perfect for this job. Not only do I have the BA in Accounting, I have…
Summer Internships
Dear Deb: I am a sophomore in college. There is such competition for summer internships and office jobs. Those jobs generally go to upper classmen. It looks like my summer job options are limited to a local summer day camp counselor position or a painter’s helper position. My college counselor told me it is better…
P.S. Statement on a Cover Letter
Dear Deb: I read online that one should always have a “P.S.” on a cover letter/email. If I do include a P.S. statement, what would I say? “P.S. I have extensive experience in CRM customization.” What do you think? Thank you, Kathy S. Dear Kathy: I have seen advice like that online too. Some experts…
Is MS Word the Standard for Resumes?
Dear Deb: I applied for a job at a major bank for a private banking position. I have 5 years of experience and should have been one of their top candidates for the opening. However, they did not respond, not so much as even an acknowledgement of my submission. I called the VP numerous times. …
How to Show a Phone Number on a Resume
Dear Debra: My wife said that using periods is the new way to write phone numbers. Have you seen phone numbers that look like this, “555.555.1212?” Is this how I should add my number on my resume? Thanks, Dan Dear Dan: There is no right way to write a phone number. You can use dashes…