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.
Ten Things that Have Nothing to do with Your Background and Experience, But Will Cost You the Job
People write to me all the time, seeking advice in securing their next position. Typical advice is to research the company, research the hiring manager, and above all, practice your interviewing skills. All of this, while important, comprises only 20% of the total challenge. In other words, your content is 20%, and your presentation is…
You Really Did Learn Everything You Need to Know about Effective Business Writing from Your English Teacher
Remember when you were in school, and your English teacher assigned an essay? Everyone groaned and complained. Maybe some people opined that writing a five paragraph essay was a waste of time and not something that you’d ever have to do out in the “real world.” Then you got out into that “real world” and…
The Savvy Networker: When to Pass on an Industry Event
Almost every career expert can agree that networking is essential for careerists. With that advice, some may feel like you can’t get enough of a good thing. Running here and there, and attending every event possible is not the best strategy. Savvy networkers know when to pass on a networking event. The following are a…
Who’s Reading Your Social Media Profiles
A recent LinkedIn survey of 4,000 talent recruiting decision makers spanning 31 countries revealed some interesting statistics concerning the use of social media as part of the candidate recruiting and screening process. The following are a few highlights of the report by LinkedIn. 55% of surveyed recruiters admit to reconsidering a candidate after viewing the…
Be a Networking Magnet
Do you find it difficult to approach people at networking events? You are not alone. Many people are uncomfortable approaching people they don’t know. Perhaps you are concerned about rejection or that the person will give you the “brush off.” What if I told you that you don’t have to be the one to make…
Brand Building, Brand Management & Judgment
It’s common for people to quickly judge others. Perhaps you had a bad experience with someone, and that left less than a favorable impression. Maybe you have heard negative things about someone for months. Based on rumors or isolated experiences, we classify someone in a particular way and cling to that judgment. That person’s words…
Confronting the Dreaded Personality Test
Many organizations use psychological assessments as a part of the candidate screening process. It can be intimidating for the candidate. Many candidates worry about “failing the test.” Some candidates try to predict the answer the employer wants. Worrying and trying to fool the evaluator are sure-fail strategies. Follow these three tips the next time you…
Making the Leap to the C-Suite
One of the most common career coaching questions is: “How can I make the leap to the C-Suite?” Of course, there are many more candidates than open executive positions. What secret ingredient do the few who make it to the top possess? What wisdom or special characteristic separates them from the rest? It is many…
Don’t Let This Happen to You: Networking Faux Pas
We are told from the time we start our careers that networking is essential. Although not enjoyable to all, networking leads us to knowledge, partnership opportunities, lessons, and more. Networking is important because we need other people to be successful. Networking ranges from the very subtle, such as a brief interaction on a commuter train,…
Networking with Your Rival
The business world is pretty competitive. It is natural to compete for positions, promotions and other things to keep yourself “in the game.” Likely you have one (or possibly more) rivals. It may be a person working for your company’s competition. Perhaps you have a rival working in your company, and you will see that…