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.
Branding: How to Quit Your Job without Spoiling Your Brand
Perhaps you are on the bubble, waiting for the right moment to quit your job. Maybe you are in the interview process and examining your options. As soon as you land a job with more challenging work and higher compensation, you plan to resign from your current job. Have you thought about how your resignation…
Making the Leap to the C-Suite
One of the most common career coaching questions is: “How can I make the leap to the C-Suite?” Of course, there are many more candidates than open executive positions. What secret ingredient do the few who make it to the top possess? What wisdom or special characteristic separates them from the rest? It is many…
Don’t Let This Happen to You: Networking Faux Pas
We are told from the time we start our careers that networking is essential. Although not enjoyable to all, networking leads us to knowledge, partnership opportunities, lessons, and more. Networking is important because we need other people to be successful. Networking ranges from the very subtle, such as a brief interaction on a commuter train,…
Formatting a Resume
Dear Debra: Is it necessary to create a “clean” page break on a two-page resume? Most resumes are read online, so why do I need to break at the end of a line or a job description as I would if it were on paper? My roommate and I disagree on this. Thank you for…
Networking with Your Rival
The business world is pretty competitive. It is natural to compete for positions, promotions and other things to keep yourself “in the game.” Likely you have one (or possibly more) rivals. It may be a person working for your company’s competition. Perhaps you have a rival working in your company, and you will see that…
Asking for LinkedIN Endorsements
Dear Debra: Is it alright to ask my colleagues to endorse me for certain skills on LinkedIn? Is that like asking for a favor? How should I approach this? Thank you, Carla Dear Carla: Yes, it is acceptable to ask your trusted colleagues that you know well. You might ask in person or send a…
Brand Yourself for a Career Change
One of the most vexing brand challenges is how to prepare for a career change. If you are changing your career, you want all expressions of your brand to reflect your current career goal. Your LinkedIn profile, your resume, your professional affiliations, and every other aspect of your brand should paint a picture of the…
Explaining a Salary Dip
Dear Debra: What is the best way to explain a dip in salary? I took a new job four years ago. The salary was $8,000 less than the salary at my previous employer. I left because I was concerned that the company was going under. I was worried about long-term unemployment. I was 42 at…
Branding Help: Shiny Shoes & Your Appearance
Does your appearance impact your career? Yes, it makes a difference, not only in an interview but on a daily basis as you are seen by others. From your perfectly-styled hair to your shiny new shoes, you are making an impression on others. That impression leads to a brand. Many people are so busy performing…
Consistency Builds Your Brand
A pattern of behavior leads to the development of a reputation. A reputation supported by your positive image and communication generates brand equity. Strong, consistent brand equity is what every smart professional desires. With brand equity, you gain the attention of prospective employers, clients and partners. How do you generate brand equity? The secret is…