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.
The Truth About For-Profit Universities
Dear Deb: I’ve been working full time for 15 years, and have reached what I think is a roadblock in my career. It is clear that in order for me to move to the next level, I need to get my MBA. Honestly, the thought of attending school for years, at night, while I work…
My boss doesn’t know that pickles are actually cucumbers!
Hi Deb: I have an unusual situation with my new manager. In short, she’s both incompetent and not particularly smart. She doesn’t write well at all; I have taken to rewriting much of what she does, because it pains me that she doesn’t know the difference between their, they’re, and there. We are in the…
Is a Business Degree Necessary to Get a Job?
Dear Deb: I am a college senior majoring in history and women’s studies. I will be graduating in a few weeks, but I’ve already begun looking for a job. I want to work either for a nonprofit that researches and advocates for women’s rights (I interned with one), or for a publisher doing research on…
How To Handle Interview Questions About Skills I Don't Possess
Dear Deb: Thanks for all of your advice on interview techniques and preparation. It has really helped me to up my game when I am out there looking for my next opportunity. I’ve been looking for a new role as a director of digital marketing, and a few of my interviewers have asked me questions…
Not Sure What the Boss is Asking?
Dear Deb: I just started a new job. This is a big step up for me in terms of responsibility and pay. One of the things my new boss is asking me to provide is a monthly status report. I’m not sure what I should include, or what format it should be in. Should I…
Trying to Get a Training Grant
Dear Deb: I have been unemployed for three months. I recently applied for a grant for additional training via my state’s department of labor. In addition to requiring me to track all of my job applications, they are also requiring me to inform my counselor every time I have an interview, so that the counselor…
Online Application Glitches
Dear Deb: I recently completed an online application, and when I got to the part of the application that asked me to self-identify, I was not unable to uncheck the box for “Vietnam Era Veteran.” I am not a veteran, and I wanted to check the appropriate box, but the software wouldn’t allow me to…
Asking Your Current Employer for References
Dear Deb: I’ve been interviewing with a nonprofit whose work I really admire. They recently told me that I am a finalist for the position, and as part of their vetting process, they want to conduct a reference and background check. I had no problem with that at all, until they told me that they…
Preparing Recent Grads for the Workforce
Dear Deb: I recently interviewed four candidates for an entry-level position on my team. One thing that is absolutely clear at the end of this experience is that college career centers are giving their students bad, outdated advice! All four of these young people had objective statements on their resumes, and presented themselves in the…
How Can I Create a Stand Out Presentation for an Interview?
Dear Deb: I have a third interview coming up, and as a part of the process, the hiring team has asked me to put together a presentation on how I would craft a digital marketing strategy for one of their products. I want to show them I know what I’m talking about, but I’m having…