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.

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Interviewers Behaving Badly: Job Interview Nightmares

Today’s blog can be summed up with a quote from the classic sitcom, Seinfeld, in which George admonishes a rude woman: “You know, we're living in a society!”  Many times I have wanted to say that to someone.  It seems that people have become desensitized to the feelings of others.  There are careless and callous…

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Lying On A Resume

Dear Deb: I fudged my resume to indicate that I earned a degree.  In fact, I did not earn the degree.  I only attended for two years and dropped out.   It was mostly because I was in a program that was not a match.  Since then, I discovered my true calling (coding) and have earned…

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Brand Building through Community Leadership

Leadership experience in volunteer, civic, and professional association settings is one way you can build and promote your personal brand.  If you are not ready to take a top leadership role for your favorite organization, you can start with a volunteer project or serve as the co-chair of a committee.  These valuable opportunities lead to…

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My Manager Hasn't Acknowledged My Resignation Letter

Dear Deb, I sent my resignation notice to my manager by email five days ago and he never replied.   I know he is in his email constantly, as it is a critical means of communication in his role.  Should I say something to him or write him again?  Or, do I assume that he has…

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Your Brand Never Takes a Rest

As I was scanning my LinkedIn feed, I read a few posts that made an indelible impression on me. One was a rant from a seemingly frustrated job searcher who complained about zero interviews in more than an 18-month period.  The other post was loaded with grammatical errors.  It was cringe-worthy.   I am not sure…

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I Don't Want to Be the Office Party Planner

Dear Deb: Not by my interest or request, I have earned the reputation as the party planner at work.  I think it is because I am the only female CPA in an office with 6 other CPAs.  There are also about 15 administrative, IT, marketing, and customer service workers.  Somehow, I am the one asked…

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3 Reasons Why You Need Pau Hana Time

What is Pau hana time?  Pau hana is a Hawaiian phrase that means, “Work is over.”  Pau hana time is a time to share with friends and family.  It’s a break from working.  Relaxation and fun are the priority during pau hana time.  Why do you need pau hana time?  1.) Improve your work performance.…

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Can I Bring My Dog To Work?

Dear Deb: My 17-year-old, 12-pound terrier is now blind.   He lies on his pillow bed all day.  I can barely rouse him to go for a walk because of his age.   I want to bring him to work with me.  How do I ask my manager this?  We are in a company-owned building with about…

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Brand Management: Work on the Side

There may be a time during your career in which you need to earn extra money. A second job may be a good solution to boost your income.  Consider how this second job can impact your brand. Of equal importance is how your employer will view your “work on the side?”  Think carefully before accepting…

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