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 Apply for the Same Job More than Once?
Dear Debra: How many times should I apply for the same job? I applied for an analyst position at a company about 13 months ago. I did not get a call for an interview, just a quick acknowledgement email. They have posted the same position again. Should I apply a second time? Thank you, Brian…
Formatting a Resume
Dear Debra: Is it necessary to create a “clean” page break on a two-page resume? Most resumes are read online, so why do I need to break at the end of a line or a job description as I would if it were on paper? My roommate and I disagree on this. Thank you for…
Asking for LinkedIN Endorsements
Dear Debra: Is it alright to ask my colleagues to endorse me for certain skills on LinkedIn? Is that like asking for a favor? How should I approach this? Thank you, Carla Dear Carla: Yes, it is acceptable to ask your trusted colleagues that you know well. You might ask in person or send a…
Explaining a Salary Dip
Dear Debra: What is the best way to explain a dip in salary? I took a new job four years ago. The salary was $8,000 less than the salary at my previous employer. I left because I was concerned that the company was going under. I was worried about long-term unemployment. I was 42 at…
Margins on a Resume
Dear Debra: What is the minimum margin for a resume? My resume is one and a half pages. If I reduce my font (Andalus) to 10 pts and decrease the margins to .5” all around, I can fit on one page. Of course, I had to drop some less important items like my volunteering and…
What is Your Biggest Weakness?
Dear Deb: How should I answer the interview question about describing my biggest weakness? Thank you, Elliot Dear Elliot: I applaud you for preparing for one of the most common interview questions. Don’t avoid the question asking for your weakness by saying, "I don't have a weakness." That is disingenuous and shows a lack of…
Providing Complete Work History
Dear Deb: I had a phone interview today, and the employer said that for further consideration, I must provide the following by the end of the week: * Complete work history going back to date of graduation. * Complete dates for all jobs. * Salaries for last five years. My dilemma is that my…
Marketing Yourself for a Career Change
Dear Debra: I earned BA and MA degrees in history and had strong grades – 3.84, Dean’s Lists most semesters through undergrad, and finished my MA with a 3.67. I graduated two years ago and started teaching, which I hated. It’s not for me. So, I earned a paralegal certificate to get myself on a…
Relocating Without a Job
Dear Deb: I am relocating without a job. How do I job search from 800 miles away? Thank you for your advice. Aaron Dear Aaron: In a relocation, it is helpful to include some details in your cover letter to prove that you are serious about relocation. That includes a reason why you are relocating.…
Getting Back Into The Workforce After a Lengthy Gap
Dear Debra: I started work as an equity sales assistant in 1984 after earning my MBA. After five years, I worked at a large international bank providing sales trading covering until 1999 when I left to raise my daughter. It was too tough taking her to childcare at 6:00 am so I could commute to…