Interview Follow Up Protocol: Don’t Become a Pest Even if the Process Drags On and On

Q.  I had an interview 10 days ago and haven’t heard anything since. I’m anxious to know where things stand, but I get mixed advice on how and when to follow up. How long should I wait before calling? And who should I call—HR or the hiring manager? Is email a better way to check…… Continue reading Interview Follow Up Protocol: Don’t Become a Pest Even if the Process Drags On and On

Job Choice: Money Now vs. Desired Career Later?

I just got off the phone with a former student who faces a tough career decision. I hope I helped with her quandary involving two excellent job offers that would take her in entirely different career directions. She allowed me to share portions of the discussion, without mentioning her name. And she welcomes suggestions before she makes up…… Continue reading Job Choice: Money Now vs. Desired Career Later?

Admitting Mistakes Sooner Than Later Saves Jobs

Q. Although this has never happened to me, I was wondering if you had any pointers on improving your relationship with your employer if something goes wrong from the beginning. I feel it is important to understand how to deal with this in the professional workplace, especially for new employees. A. If this hasn’t happened to you yet,…… Continue reading Admitting Mistakes Sooner Than Later Saves Jobs

Prepare Yourself to Ace Virtual Writing Test

  Q. Finally, I made it to round two for a job possibility. I interviewed last week with the recruiter and two account people. HR said next step is a writing test that they will “administer virtually” in the next week to 10 days.  I said “OK” but I’m not entirely clear what that means.…… Continue reading Prepare Yourself to Ace Virtual Writing Test

Resumes: Stick to Facts, Not Tricks

Q. My friends and mentor tell me I have a strong resume, but it’s not getting me very far. After reading the Wall Street Journal article on creative job searches, I am wondering if I should create a non-traditional resume to set me apart from others. A. While a vast majority of resumes stick to…… Continue reading Resumes: Stick to Facts, Not Tricks

Don’t Let Resume Creep Overwhelm Job Search

Q. I am applying for my first full-time job at several agencies, but no matter how much I edit, I still can’t get my resume down to one page. I have had four internships and was active in several campus organizations, while also working part-time. Even if I use 9-point type I need an extra…… Continue reading Don’t Let Resume Creep Overwhelm Job Search

12 Interviews and Still No Job? Time For Action

Q. I’m getting frustrated because I’ve gone back to the same company 12 separate times, yet I have no idea if I’m a serious candidate. I didn’t hear anything for the past three weeks so I called the HR recruiter today and she said I’m still a finalist, but they want me to return to meet others. Is this normal…… Continue reading 12 Interviews and Still No Job? Time For Action

In a Job Search and Elsewhere, Proofread. And Proofread Again.

Q. I tried to speed up my job search by modifying form letters to a number of agencies, but I forgot to change the original agency name within the 20 emails I sent to other agencies. So far, I have only heard from a couple firms and they didn’t mention anything about this mistake. Should…… Continue reading In a Job Search and Elsewhere, Proofread. And Proofread Again.

Reporter Career Switch to PR Possible, Not Easy

Q. I have worked in television news for eight years and realize I may have to move a few more times if I want to reach a top job in a major market. I’d rather not move again, so I would like some realistic advice about the potential and process of making a transition into…… Continue reading Reporter Career Switch to PR Possible, Not Easy