Hi everyone--welcome.  We had a terrific event today in Boston.  So much energy and a great mix of employers, many hiring nationally.  This forum is to answer questions and provide advice for the rest of the country!  TO POST YOUR QUESTION HIT REPLY.

Hi Tory

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Dear Tory,

I am a former school teacher that has not worked in that field for 10 years.  I am looking at certification programs to work as an Event Planner.  Through the years I have done this work as a volunteer.  What are your feeling as to whether I should pursue this career?  Thank you.

Tina

does GMA ever coordinate these type of job fairs on the west coast? 

Hi Tory.  I have a question on the dress code for events and interviews.  Different companies seem to have different dress codes.  I've even been to a Video Game discussion on interviewing where someone said they would NOT hire someone that showed up in a suit.  How do you "feel" out the company to see what you should wear?

thanks

Dear Tory:

I've been getting conflicting advice about length of resumes.  Should they still be one page, move to two?  Is length less of a factor with "online" submissions than the right word choice?

I'm a professional with over a dozen years in my career but looking to change (into possible government openings).  Any advice as to breaking into that job sector (where there's preferences) as opposed to searching in the private sector?

Thank you for your attention.

Hi Tory,  I have seen you on GMA in October 2006 and I applied right away to one of the work at home companies.  I have been providing services for that company since 10/2006 and moved into a management position.  I was just recently laid off and I have been searching for another call center with a management opportunity.  However, I do not see any open positons on their website?  Do you have any suggestions?

Hi Tory! My name is Rachel F, I'm going to be 27 in March and I live in New York. I am trying to make my move to Boston. Unfortunately did not hear about the job fair in Boston until I saw it on GMA this morning. I was laid off at the end of this past June and have been focusing all my efforts on finding a job in Boston. I have been on quite a few interviews but, they have gone nowhere because of a couple of different reasons. I'm beginning to become nervous of the big gap of time that is on my resume. Things are only seeming to get worse. Do you have any advice on how to market myself better and how to stay positive?

Hi Tory,

I am a recent MBA graduate with 6 + years of military experience.  I am no longer serving in the armed forces and I am now job hunting.  My job in the military was as an admin assistant and I'm interested in pursuing a career in human resource management.  I have applied to numerous vacancy announcements with different agencies within the Federal government and most of the replies have mentioned my lack of experience in the HR field.  I thought my education would assist as a substitute for the experience, but I'm finding out that this may not be the case.  Any comments or advise to help me land a HR position?

 

Hi Tory, I've been following the series, and have taken suggestions. I've been unemployed since 10-24, lost my job of 21 years, was terminated, but was an excuse  to downsize department. I've kept in contact with friends, but nothing has come of it. Have even applied outside my comfort zone of medical office. Have only had a handfull of interviews. I try to remain upbeat, but it is beginning to be difficult. I know I could be helpful to any office with a minimum of training. I am available now and reliable, could it be because I am 55 and have white hair?

Kathblock

Hi Ms. Johnson, 

I was unable to join this a.m. but your telephoned staff were ABSOLUTELY AMAZING.  Thanks for coming to Boston.  I really need your assistance with my current situation I'm semi-disabled yet mobile.  My Social Security (age 53) limits my income earning ability so I'm seeking temporary and/or part time employment.  I'd love to work from home and also in the non-profit community, thinking it will be less congested, somewhat...Any ideas?  CynthiAnn

I'm 54, and I've just completed my Bachelor's Degree in IT/Visual Communications. This would include web site development, online training and publishing, etc. How do I convince companies that a graying 50+ woman has indeed kept up with what's happening in IT?

I teach college freshman at Drexel Univ. and will be including your recommendations from this morning's program in my classes this afternoon.  Do you have any suggestions for the summer job hunt?

Would this make a good segment for a future program? (Please see comment section for further details)

 

Hi Tory,

What advice can you give professionals on the short end of a downsizing/ job outsourcing when discussing these situations on interviews (phone/ in person)?

Thank you!! Brad

We're exploring all cities! 

Hi Tory.

My name is Theresa. I recently graduated from St. John's University with a degree in Communications. I have a concentration in Marketing/Public Relations/Advertising. I've been looking for jobs within these fields but so far it's been very difficult, even to get interviews, let alone offers. I graduated with honors and have had professional help in writing my resume. I am now working part-time in retail in a job that does not even require high school graduation. I would appreciate any help you could give me.

Thank you,

Theresa

Hello Tory,

How do future employers "verify" your previous income.  I have read when requested to attach a salary history to your resume when applying....to apply without in hopes that your resume will spark the interest for them to request that in the future at a phone or in person interview.  I have also read how to write what your salary "request" would be and what you might accept.
QUESTION for you however, is how do they verity what you made if it included bonuses and I am in California if the laws here make a difference with your answer!  I ask because it is a two edged sword, how do you ever get an increase if they want to know what you made last to make you an offer for less?!

Young women ask me the same thing -- they say nobody will hire them because they don't have experience.   So it works all ways.  If youre in an industry that values the newest, latest, hottest, make sure you're up to speed on technology and trends. Make sure that's conveyed in resumes, conversations, etc.  COmbat the image of set in your ways and outdated.  Get involved in leading industry groups in your field.