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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.

Ask Deb: Should I minimize my accomplishments?
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Ask Deb: Should I minimize my accomplishments?

Hi Deb:

I recently took an early retirement from the company I’ve worked at since I graduated college. I have a great package and while I don’t need to work for survival, I feel that, at age 55, I still have many more years before I’m ready to fully embrace retirement….

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Should I put my job search on hold during this pandemic?
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Should I put my job search on hold during this pandemic?

I made a New Year’s resolution to make a concerted effort to find a new role. However, when the gravity of the global pandemic became widely publicized, and many states issued stay-at-home orders, everything dried up. I’m curious as to your thoughts on searching for a job during a global health crisis.….

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Denied for a Job for Unknown Reasons

Dear Deb: I interviewed for a position recently, only to receive an email stating that they went with a candidate who was a “better cultural fit” for the role. I don’t understand what that means, and I would like to reach out to the hiring team for clarification. Is this advised? What is “cultural fit”?…

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End of Year Gift Giving

Hi Deb: I dread the end of the year. There are endless office parties and niceties that, although technically optional, feel mandatory. For example, I am invited to my department’s holiday party, the company-wide holiday party, and another product team’s holiday party. Both my team’s and my product team’s parties require that I bring a…

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My Male Colleagues Won't Respect Me

Hi Deb: I have a question that I’m sure you’ve heard before. When I’m in meetings at work, I’m often the only woman in the room/on the call. My male colleagues continuously interrupt me, talk over me, and dismiss what I’m saying. I’ve spoken with my manager (who is a man) privately about this, and…

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Follow Up On the Indifferent Boss

Hi Deb: Thanks for your advice as to what I should do about my boss who doesn’t seem to care about anything. I did as you suggested, and invited his manager for coffee. I told him that I really enjoy working with the team and that I learned a lot on the last project we…

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Is My Manager the Best Reference for Me?

Dear Deb:   I was reorganized out of my job a few months back, and I’m now in the final rounds of interviews for a position at a competitor of my former company. The application materials indicate that any offer is contingent upon a successful background check, including a reference check. This is what I’m…

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How to Navigate Salary Negotiation

Dear Deb:   I recently completed four rounds of interviews for a position with a large, multinational company. This role would be a significant increase in responsibility and visibility for me, and I was really excited about it. However, when the HR manager called me with the offer, the salary was only 10% more than…

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LinkedIN Endorsements vs. Recommendations

Dear Deb: I am trying to build out my LinkedIn profile, so I can make it as complete as it can be. I know you frequently discuss the importance of LinkedIn, so would you be able to answer why I need to have recommendations? Aren’t endorsements the same thing? Signed, Marco Dear Marco: Thank you…

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