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Practical guidance on resumes, LinkedIn, job search, career transitions, personal branding, interviews, and more from NRWA career professionals.
Job searching and career management raise a lot of questions, and the answers aren’t always as simple as they seem online. NRWA professionals share practical, experience-based guidance to help you make better decisions about your resume, LinkedIn presence, job search, career transitions, professional brand, and more.
Browse the latest advice below or explore topics relevant to where you are in your career.
When a Traditional Résumé Works Against You
QUESTION: When is a traditional resume format actually a disadvantage, and what should be used instead?A traditional (reverse chronological) resume may not work well if you’ve had gaps, frequent job changes, or are switching fields. Skills-based or functional formats...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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:...
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...
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...
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...
Job Searching Safely
Job scams are getting more sophisticated, and job seekers are prime targets. Learn the warning signs, how to verify an offer, and what to do if you've been targeted.
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Do you have questions about writing your resume, your LinkedIn profile, or about the job searching process? Ask us your question and it may be selected as the topic of our next blog post, with answers compiled from the advice of NRWA members.
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This site is provided by NRWA: The Association of Career Strategy & Branding Professionals, a nonprofit professional association serving career professionals in the United States and worldwide.
The NRWA members help job seekers and career professionals clarify their goals, communicate their value, strengthen their professional brands, and navigate an increasingly complex job market. Many specialize in resume writing, while others also provide LinkedIn strategy, career branding, interview preparation, career transition support, and related services.
Whether you need expert help with your resume or broader guidance for your career, NRWA can help you find a professional whose expertise fits your needs.
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