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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.

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Non-Disclosure Agreements

Dear Deb: I signed a non-disclosure agreement regarding large transactions and names of clients.  How do I show my accomplishments on my resume? Thank you, Josh Dear Josh: If you signed an agreement, you must abide by that agreement.  However, that does not prevent you from sharing your accomplishments on your resume.  You can write…

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LinkedIn: Searching Is Now a Bit Easier

Careerists at all stages rely upon LinkedIn to connect, interact and research.  As LinkedIn has grown, searching can yield vast results.  Fortunately, LinkedIn has listened to members and continuously identifies ways to optimize the overall LinkedIn experience, including searching for people and jobs.  Take a look at three recent LinkedIn improvements.   Searching All Degrees…

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How do I Ensure that I leave a Job on Good Terms?

Dear Deb: I have been offered a new job with a greater chance for promotions.   I think it will be a big surprise to my manager.  She has been a mentor to me over the last five years and I want to be sure I do not burn a bridge with her or the company. …

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The Value of a Web-based Visual Resume

If you are expecting a resume format designed in the “paper generation” to propel your career in the year 2015, it is time for you to consider the value of a visual web-based resume.   A web-based resume affords freedom of creative expression, new categories to present a complete branding message and enables your contacts to…

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How Many Pages Should My Resume Be?

Dear Deb: I have struggled to reduce my resume to one page and I can only get it down to two pages.  I have been working for 12 years for four employers and have earned a degree and  one insurance industry certification.  I don’t know what to cut to get to one page other than…

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Resume Help: How Blatant Errors Can Cost You the Job

Today’s candidate has been sending a resume to dozens of potential employers with no response.  He asked me to review his resume and offer suggestions for improvement.  Not everyone is an eagle eye when it comes to proofreading documents.  Perhaps this candidate has spent so much time on his document that he is overlooking errors…

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Presentations on LinkedIn

Dear Deb: How do I add my presentations to my LinkedIn profile?  I don’t see a category for presentations. Thank you! Louise Dear Louise: As of today, LinkedIn does not have a category for presentations.  However, the closest match for that information is the publications section.  Add any major presentations that are related to your…

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Branding Help: Transitioning from a Military Career to a Civilian Career

The military culture is well-defined, and members are entrenched in the culture. Often, there is a military or civilian way of thinking. Naturally, when separating from the military individuals may feel unsure or uncomfortable about their new identity. Learning how to brand yourself in a civilian work environment will make your professional transition much smoother…

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Resume Help: Showing Skills & Education

Today’s candidate has the skills and education required to excel in a graphic design career.  His resume is holding him back for several reasons.   All of the items can be easily corrected. 1.)  Always use the actual name of the certificate or degree.  Instead of saying vocational certificate, state the actual program, such as “Certificate: …

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Career U-Turn: Returning to Your Former Job

Have you ever made a career decision that you later regretted?   Did you ever leave a job for another job at a company with greener pastures?   Or, perhaps you took a position only to discover six months later that the company was downsizing after a major contract was lost.  Did you wish that you stayed…

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