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.
Getting Back Into The Workforce After a Lengthy Gap
Dear Debra: I started work as an equity sales assistant in 1984 after earning my MBA. After five years, I worked at a large international bank providing sales trading covering until 1999 when I left to raise my daughter. It was too tough taking her to childcare at 6:00 am so I could commute to…
Dealing with Potential Employers who Require Online Samples of Your Work
Dear Deb: How do you deal with recruiters and/or companies who require online samples of your work before they meet you when all or most of your work is proprietary, covered by a non-compete or NDA, restricted, etc.? Redacted samples would STILL appear to fall into that category. Would they want you to parade their…
Editing Your LinkedIN Profile
Dear Debra: Is it appropriate to change the order of my LinkedIn sections? I don’t have a lot of work history and the history that I have is not related to my career goal. Is it OK to lead with my education and skills? How do I do this? Thank you for your advice, Benjamin…
Interview Tips from the Presidential Debates
This year, more than past years, Americans are drawn to the Republican and Democratic debates. Perhaps it is the celebrity of Donald Trump, or maybe it is the unique background of this season’s candidates. Whatever the reason, the debates are drawing record-breaking viewership. We can learn a lot from debates, including the major issues of…
Showing Your Latest Role On LinkedIN
Dear Debra: I set up my LinkedIn account and it is showing a volunteer unpaid position in my summary at the top of my profile. That does not seem right. Is this because I am currently unemployed? What do you recommend that I do? Thank you, Sarina Dear Sarina: LinkedIn places your latest "role" as…
Four Top Tips for Finding a Job and a Soul Mate
You can find almost anything on the Internet, including a job and a date. There are mega sites with a staggering amount of contenders, and then there are numerous niche sites specializing in precise segments or geographic areas. Most sites have simple navigation and various tools to search and analyze prospective jobs or sweethearts. Although…
Job Action Day: New Twist on Your Job Search
Are you diligently performing your job search the same way you did ten years ago but not getting positive results? It’s Job Action Day! What does this mean? Well, it means that it is time for you to reinvigorate your job search. We’re focusing on the unique value and needs of the age 50+ job…
What Should I Include In My Resume If I am Changing Careers?
Dear Deb: I have been a Pilates instructor at an upscale studio for 10 years. I am looking to make a change into a sales rep position for a fashion, fitness, or beauty brand. I don’t have a college degree and have only worked in fitness since the age of 20. What can I put…
Resume Help: Is Your Resume off to a Good Start?
Today’s candidate is not “off to a good start” with this resume. Let’s examine the top portion of the resume (below). There are two major problems with the top area of her resume. First there is an objective statement that does not sell and second, a summary statement that is loaded with clichés. Objective: Seeking…
Am I Paranoid?
Dear Deb: I am interviewing for a high level R&D position top tier global company. I signed non-disclosure agreements before the second in-person interview, which is somewhat standard in this industry and at this level. However, I wonder if they were spying on me during the ride back to the airport. They arranged my car. …