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.
Order on the Résumé!
Order of the résumé is important for two reasons. First, when you follow a standard résumé order, you are delivering what the reader expects. When you depart from the standard, you might be perceived as uninformed. Second, when data is properly organized your most compelling selling points will shine. Within the résumé -writing realm, there…
Résumé Help: Editing for Content, Flow, & Accuracy
Eva wrote to me because she has not had a response to her résumé. After reviewing Eva’s history, it is clear that she is an accomplished leader. However, most recruiters and hiring employers will not forgive her for her many errors. Eva’s résumé appears to be a good rough draft. If you click on the…
What can I do in my job search to find a company that is a match for me?
Dear Deb: I am gay and it is really important for me to work for a company that accepts me. I have no intention of hiding who I am. At company parties, I want to be able to bring my husband without whispers. Having benefits for my husband is important too. At the same time,…
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…