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.
Follow-up Protocol
Dear Deb: How do I follow up with a company after an interview? I know it is proper etiquette, but I am not sure of the protocol. How long should I wait? Is email or snail mail better? Thanks, Richard Dear Richard: Your instincts are correct. It is proper etiquette to thank the interviewer for…
The Goldilocks Principle & Resumes for Candidates over Age 45
Remember Goldilocks? She is the ever-curious child known for breaking and entering into the three bears’ home. She tested the bears’ beds and porridge in search of accommodations and dinner that was “just right.” She did not want a bed that was too soft or porridge that was too hot. A resume must follow the…
Cover Letter Help: Planning Your Message
Many candidates make the mistake of thinking a cover letter is just a formality. They do not make the effort to create a compelling marketing letter. Take a look at Bree’s letter inserted below. Don’t fall into Bree’s trap. The following are examples of how Bree can improve her cover letter. Use the opening paragraph…
How to Choose a Trade School
Hi Deb, What are the best schools to train for a career in vocational nursing? I live in New Hampshire, but am open to anything in the region. Thanks! Maddie Dear Maddie: Congratulations on your decision to continue your education and increase your job skills. There are many reputable institutions in the Northeast that offer…
Do You Need a Summary Paragraph on Your Resume?
I received this question this week from a client who has not updated her resume since 2001. As a general rule, you should include a summary paragraph on your resume. This summary area is a great way to showcase, by way of example, what you have done in the past that will serve as an…
Resume Help: Don’t Let a Font Reveal Your Age
Take a look at Dr. McFarland’s resume (CV is the more accurate term for this type of resume.) She used a front from the Courier family, the likes of which were used on early typewriters. When one sees this one is reminded of telegraphs from the early 1900s and documents typed on typewriters by…
Determining a Career Goal
Dear Deb: I will earn my Bachelor of Business Administration in six months (with honors). I chose that degree because it would give me many options. The truth is that I just don’t know what I want to do. I’ve talked to advisors who told me to “Follow my bliss,” whatever that is. I like…
Questions to Ask when Networking
When you meet someone new who could potentially point you in the right direction toward a new job or opportunity, you have to ask the right questions to maximize your time and the value of the meeting. You should think carefully about the purpose of your meeting is – is it to ask for a…
Resume Help: More Accomplishments, Less Attributes
Today we are looking at a portion of Mark’s resume. He’s an accomplished executive at a pharmaceutical company, leading an international staff and managing products that generate millions of dollars over the product’s lifespan. In Mark’s first draft, he squandered valuable space to communicate his attributes. He also starts many of his bulleted points…
How to Show Multiple Career Goals on LinkedIn
Dear Deb: I have been unemployed for 9 months. My severance pay ended last month. At this point, I am open to almost any possibility. I was a Project Manager I have worked in the past as a Systems Administrator, Analyst, and Development (but my development skills have diminished). I enjoyed leading projects and coordinating…