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Presenting Experience with Controversial Organizations

Presenting Experience with Controversial Organizations

QUESTION: I’ve worked for controversial organizations (e.g., political groups, ethically debated industries). How do I present that experience neutrally?Lead with your role and impact, not the organization. Use a neutral descriptor to give context (e.g., mid-sized...

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Cover Letter Alternatives

Cover Letter Alternatives

QUESTION: What’s a creative alternative to a cover letter that can make a candidate stand out? My opinion is that this is not the place to get overly creative; creative/grand gestures backfire more often than not. However, you can send an e-note or LinkedIn message to...

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Forgotten but Powerful Perks

Forgotten but Powerful Perks

QUESTION: What’s a non-salary perk that candidates often forget to negotiate but can have a big impact?In addition to a flexible schedule, remote days, professional development, extra PTO, equipment, business-class flights, childcare, eldercare, parking, commuter...

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When Interviews Don’t Convert

When Interviews Don’t Convert

QUESTION: How should a job seeker adjust their strategy if they’re getting interviews but no offers?This is the time to audit/enhance your pre-interview, interview & post-interview strategy. Assess last few interviews. List do/do different. Prepare your...

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Underrated Resume Sections

Underrated Resume Sections

QUESTION: What’s the most underrated section of a resume that candidates often overlook?Many job seekers underestimate the power of the professional summary section! I compare this to a movie trailer; a trailer gives you bits and pieces of the movie and a general...

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Using AI in Your Job Search

Using AI in Your Job Search

QUESTION: I know it’s not a good idea to use AI to write my resume for me, but what can I use AI for in the job search without seeming lazy and impersonal?When using AI for your job search, treat it as your assistant—not your résumé writer. Start with a clear prompt:...

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Can I submit a job application at 2:00 am?

Can I submit a job application at 2:00 am?

QUESTION: What’s your policy on sending job applications at 2 a.m.—does it make me seem dedicated or just sleep-deprived?Applying at 2AM? Either you’re incredibly committed or you’ve lost track of time! Either way, hiring managers care more about *what* you send than...

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Do you need a video resume?

Do you need a video resume?

QUESTION: Would it ever make sense to send a video resume if I’m not an actor or influencer?Only if the video adds value or was directly requested. At that point, a short and professional clip can show communication skills or presence. Speak naturally and avoid...

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Attracting a Recruiter through Social Media

Attracting a Recruiter through Social Media

QUESTION: What’s the most creative (but not creepy) way to get a hiring manager’s attention on social media?Focus on the hiring manager's presence on LinkedIn. If they post content, engage with it. If you notice something in their profile that shows a common interest...

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Targeting Your Resume for Different Industries and Roles

Targeting Your Resume for Different Industries and Roles

QUESTION: How should I approach tailoring my resume for different industries and job types? I don’t have a specific target at present – I’m qualified in many areas.  Start with one clear target, then tailor from there. A résumé that tries to be everything to...

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