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.
Branding Tips: Can Your Email & Phone Numbers Tarnish Your Brand?
Yes, the email address that you choose and how you display your phone numbers on your resume and webpages reveal a lot about who you are. It also contributes to your brand. Your brand is how others perceive you. If your email and phone number suggest that you are outdated or not a serious professional,…
Showing That You Are Qualified for a New Project
Dear Deb: What is the best way to show that I am qualified to handle a large, complex project if I have never led a project of considerable scope before? I am in the running to lead a $5.3 million implementation of a new data storage system for 43 sites across North America. The largest…
Branding for the Not-So-Average Person
Recently a client asked me, “Why do I need a brand? I am just an average person. It’s not like I am an executive, celebrity, or an entrepreneur.” My answer was, “That is exactly why you need to think about your personal brand.” Do you want to be perceived as average? No; you want to…
Connecting with Competitors on LinkedIn
Dear Deb: Is it a good idea to accept a competitor as a LinkedIn connection? Isn’t there a chance I could lose potential customers if they see their names and start shopping? I am a consultant in the field of environmental impact studies. Thank you, Doug Dear Doug: Thanks for writing. Yes, accepting an invitation…
Face-to-Face Networking
Face-to-face networking may be one of the most detested phrases a career professional can hear. You mean I have to talk to strangers in person? Can’t I just email them? Isn’t it enough if I like their posts on LinkedIn? Sure, it is great to connect online. Most of our daily professional and personal interactions…
Do I need to reveal that I am not a citizen on my resume?
Dear Deb: I am a citizen of Italy. I have been working at a university as a researcher in the United States for six years. Our study is coming to a conclusion in six months. I am beginning to network to find a new placement. Do I need to state my citizenship and status on…
Three Reasons Why Objective Statements Are Out
With all the “do’s and don’ts” of resume writing, do you ever wonder the reasons why objective statements are out? The objective statement falls in the category of a “don’t.” There are at least three reasons why objective statements are no longer recommended for professional resumes. ONE: It places the focus on your needs (objective)…
Knocking Down the Wall of Words
Andrew sent me his resume for review. My first impulse was to knock down his “wall of words.” He has so many wonderful accomplishments, but they are buried within long narratives under each job. Additionally, he has used a tiny 10-point Arial font and very thin margins. It is tough on the eyes and only…
How to explain a termination when asked in interview
Dear Debra: I was fired in my last job as a customer service agent due to excessive tardiness and absences. What do I say if I am asked about it? I had a new baby. I learned my lesson and in my next job, I will 1) get a job closer to home, 2.) use…
Planning Your Career Re-Entry After a Divorce
A divorce is a drastic life-changing experience. As a result of divorce, some previously stay-at-home spouses or full-time parents find themselves needing to work in a full-time job outside the home. Returning to work can stir feelings of anxiety, fear, self-doubt, and uncertainty. Creating a plan to manage the transition can reduce those negative feelings…