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.
What Not to Include in Your Resume Profile
For many, determining what to include in the resume profile is vexing. You want to entice the reader, so they are immediately engaged – so much so, that they read the rest of your resume. You want to conform to proven resume standards while using unique language, so your resume does not read like a…
Interview Dilemma Resolved: Explaining a Career Blip
One of the most common dilemmas in a job search is the handling of a blip in your career. The concern is that an employer may think less of a candidate who has taken a wrong turn. Sometimes a candidate accepts a job and once in that new positions realizes this job is far from…
Interview Rescue
Perhaps you’ve seen one of the dozens of shows on cable TV with the rescue theme. In a single weekend, you can watch shows about rescuing a bar, rehabbing a home, salvaging a failing restaurant, and saving a business from bankruptcy. I propose a new show…interview rescue. The opening scene will show a job candidate…
The LinkedIn Headline: Your Brand in 120 Words or Less
Most parts of your LinkedIn profile are fairly straight-forward. Complete this, select that, edit thoughtfully, and you are on your way to a new LinkedIn profile. The stumbling block for many is the headline. You have 120 characters to brand yourself, get located through keywords, and attract the reader to explore the rest of your…
How to Hit the “Bull’s Eye” with Your Resume
How many resumes do you send without a single response? Where did you go wrong? You have so many skills, as well as extensive knowledge. It is possible that your resume is missing the target because it was not written with a target in mind? When written properly, a resume positions a candidate as a…
Excellent Communication Skills? Prove It!
How many resumes have you read that included the well-worn line, “Excellent verbal and written communication skills?” Too many! One problem with over-used resume clichés is that the reader doesn’t take them seriously. Another problem is that resume clichés are unoriginal; they demonstrate a lack of effort by the candidate. Is the answer to delete…
Exceptions to Resume Rules
You know the rules, let’s discuss the exceptions. Resume standards are based on what has proven to be effective in the job market over recent years. However, there are exceptions to many of the resume rules. The following are the top five resume rules with exceptions. Omit articles on resumes. It is common to omit…
Branding Strategies for the Unemployed
It is easier to get a job when you have a job. This is true in most cases. Naturally, the demand for a candidate increases when they are considered valued or sought-after by other companies. In Hollywood, the idea is to work on hot projects, associate with other in-demand players, and stay in the media. …
How to Present a Multi-Faceted Professional Brand
Most resume and job search experts agree that your resume should be focused on your current career goal. Many advisors will explain the importance of building and presenting a consistent brand. How do you focus on a current goal and construct a consistent brand when you have multiple career goals? That can be a challenge,…
Body Language Miscues
Body language is critically important. Small movements that you make …movements you probably aren't aware of … could be the key to whether others trust you … or not. Train yourself not to make the four gestures demonstrated in the infographic below to ensure trust in those around you. Why is buying Instagram likes profitable and…