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.
Including Languages on your Résumé
Dear Deb: I moved to the U.S. from Greece when I was five when I was adopted by American parents. I always put on my résumé that I have native fluency in Greek. My recruiter told me to remove it from my résumé unless an employer is looking for that language skill. She also said…
Captivating Cover Letters, the Easy Way
Writing a cover letter does not have to be a pain-staking process. Perhaps it is the pressure of writing a perfect letter that makes the task so overwhelming. So, how do you write a captivating letter without pulling your hair out in frustration? Break it down into these simple steps. Start Strong: The opening paragraph. …
Résumé Help: Déjà Vu
No, the sample above is not a copy and paste mistake on my part. This candidate actually has identical information for two jobs on her résumé. This issue is more common than one would imagine. It is especially common in technology-related occupations, in which a person may continue to do similar or the same functions…
What am I Doing Wrong on Interview?
Dear Deb: I have had 4 interviews, two said they would be in contact for a second interview, if I was the right fit. I never got the call for the second interview...What am I doing wrong here? Anonymous Dear Anonymous, Waiting for an answer and getting rejected can be frustrating and disappointing. However, it…
Why Many HR Managers Read Cover Letters
Although cover letters have changed form over the years, cover letters or cover emails are still relevant today. Some candidates ask, “Why is the letter so important when much of the same information is in the résumé?” “Do HR Managers even read the cover letter?” Many HR Managers do read cover letters. Here are a…
Résumé Help: Modernize Your Résumé
Clara’s résumé is very outdated. The problem with an outdated résumé is that it brands you as someone who is not knowledgeable about how business is done in today’s world. This could lead to a perception that you are not technically current or adaptable. To avoid this negative image, modernize your résumé. Here are the…
Personality Traits on a Résumé?
Dear Deb: I want to add the results of my recent personality tests to my résumé because they were very positive and show my leadership ability. My top five indicators are: Activator, Positivity, Learner, Communication, and Winning Others Over. Where can I put this on my résumé? Would I create a special section with the…
The Science Behind Your Résumé
There is more than meets the eye when it comes to your résumé. The trick is to be sure the most impactful parts of your résumé are viewed and absorbed by the recruiter or hiring manager. Other than mind control, (which is not an option) how can you direct the reader’s eyes to particular places…
Résumé Help: The Classic Undersell
The purpose of your résumé is to “get your foot in the door” of a potential employer. If you save your best selling points for the interview, you will likely not have an interview. You’ve got to come out with your strong selling points in the résumé so you can earn the interview invitation. Today’s…
Listing Military Training on your Resume
Dear Deb: Should I list all of my military training? I have about a half page of courses and training programs that I completed. I feel this training would compensate for my lack of a college degree. Most of my training is military readiness, combat conditioning, and radio operations. I have been out of the…