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.
Don’t Sweat It! Interviewing During a Heat Wave
Sweating is your body's way of cooling down. It is a natural biological function that helps the body to cope during extreme heat. One of the major principles of interviewing is: “don’t let them see you sweat.” Here are a few tips to help you look your freshest and feel confident, even in a heat…
Heat Up Your Job Search This Summer
Three weeks ago I met with a new client, Rich. He expressed urgency because he has been out of work for eight months. We discussed the career history information necessary to create his resume. After following up with Rich, he said he would need a few more days. In five days, I called again and…
Résumé Help: Be Strategic About Your Content
When you review the sample below, you may think I am too rough on today’s candidate. Like too many candidates, Eric is not sharing the more compelling details of his career history. This is a classic undersell. No worries! We can help Eric create a new résumé strategy. Eric will be smiling all the way…
Can I ask a potential employer to pay my travel expenses for an out of town interview?
Hi Deb: Is it OK to ask a hiring company to pay for my airline ticket and hotel to an out-of-state first interview? Thanks, Sean Dear Sean, Many times a large employer seeking candidates outside of their geographic area will pay for transportation and hotel expenses, especially for senior management positions. Some smaller companies may not…
Re-Brand 2012: What to Do When a “Brand-Aid” is Not Enough
Many clients come to me for career advice when the same old approach is no longer working. Often they will say, “Something is going on in the market. In the past, I was in high demand.” Well, perhaps it is the challenging market. On the other hand, could it be your long-time brand is no…
Résumé Help: Sorting Out the Summary & Career Highlights Categories
Bert sent us his résumé for a review. After reviewing, I notice that Bert is a top notch pharmaceutical sales representative. However, he has hidden his accomplishments in a long bulleted list with other items, including job duties and skills. We recommend that Bert revamp the structure of the résumé first page. We suggest replacing…
Is it okay to note that you're a contractor on your linked in profile?
Hi Debra, I was wondering if you could answer a question for me. I'm currently in a contract position. Is it okay to note that you're a contractor on your linked in profile while you continue to look for a perm position? Are there any pros? cons? to doing so. Thanks so much for your…
Résumé Help: More to the Story
Below we have shared a portion of Rocco’s résumé. Rocco is a successful leader with recent success building a start-up from a very early stage through five years (and counting) of prosperity. However, he is very vague about his achievements. I know there is more to Rocco’s story! He merely hints at the functions he…
Can employers checking credit reports?
Dear Deb: I just interviewed for a job and they asked for permission to check my credit records. They said that they would provide me with a copy of the report they receive. I don’t have anything to hide. I am just concerned about this employer and if they are going to make a practice…
Skype Interview Suggestions
If you are actively job searching out of your area and you have not used Skype for an interview yet, you will. Prepare yourself now so you are ready when the opportunity is presented. Create an Ideal Background Remove people, pets, and any other distractions. Choose a room with a neutral, uncluttered background. Avoid using…