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.
Should I Ask to Be Paid to Set-Up My Desk?
Dear Deb: My employer is moving to a larger facility next week. We are a 6-month old start-up company. The owner said he’d like “all hands on deck” to help with the office set-up. We’re essentially moving our own desk contents, but professional movers and technicians will have already set up furniture and computers. They…
Joan Rivers: The Ultimate Stand-Up Woman
She got knocked down and always got up again. We expected her to rally back again after this recent cardiac event. Unfortunately, it would not happen and Joan Rivers passed at the age of 81. What a combination of genius, authenticity, passion, and talent. Many of us felt like we knew her. When she was…
Your Brand: Talk Is Cheap. You Have to Prove It!
You may have a brand statement at the top of your resume that simply sings. It hits all the high notes, describing just what your target employer needs. Many would assume that a statement that strong would not only get you in the door for an interview, but would blow the doors off! However, if…
How Long to Wait Before a Second Follow-Up Call?
Hi Debra: How long should I wait before making a second follow-up call? I sent my resume to a job opportunity two weeks ago. One week after, I called to be sure they received my resume. The HR assistant checked and confirmed it was received. It’s been two weeks. Shouldn’t I have heard by now?…
Networking Time Wasters
Astute professionals know that networking is essential to career success. At any stage in your career, it is necessary to be connected so you can stay on top of the latest news, give and receive expert advice, and learn about upcoming changes. Although networking is a worthy effort, there are networking time wasters that you’ll…
Need More Vacation Time
Dear Deb: I am planning to return to work as a marketing director after a 12-year break. I want to communicate to the employer that I will need time off to accompany my husband when he travels to Europe and Asia for work. Most times, we have a 2 to 3-week notice of the trips.…
5 Ways to Compensate for a Lack of Paid Professional Experience
Don’t let lack of recent paid professional experience keep you from your dream job. There are at least five ways that you can gain skills and experience necessary for your target career. You may discover that you already have experience that proves that you are qualified for the job. 1.) Professional Certifications If you are…
Is YouTube Success Resume-Worthy?
Dear Deb: I created a video, posted it on YouTube, and it has 543,000 hits. It’s a humorous song about the plight of a rare beetle. There is no offensive language. It has nothing to do with my career in commercial real estate leasing. However, I wonder if it would make me seem unique. Should…
3 Networking Success Stories
Recently, a steadfast non-believer in the power of networking challenged me to share three examples of clients who earned a job through networking. That’s easy. I’ll take that challenge any day of the week. Many of my clients have gained introductions, interviews, and ultimately job offers through networking. Here are just three examples of how…
What to Include on a Resume for Retail
Dear Deb: Is it necessary to bring a resume for a job at a retail shop in the mall? What would it say? I have only worked at an Italian ice cart at a local amusement park and also some intermittent work as a catering server. It might make me look silly to show that…