With so many online applications required, I have two questions. First, do HR directores appreciate supporting reference letters or work samples via snail mail? If so, what is the best method you would recommend to identify the person to whose attention I would direct the material? Thank you! May you choose to create a great day as you continue to make a positive difference in the lives you touch! ~Melanie H., IA

I don't think a suit is always essential.  A polished look is critical -- that may be a sweater set, crisp white shirt, whatever showcases you and who you are.   If you're ever in doubt, ask the person who sets up the meeting about the dress code.  That will put you at ease and remove the worry.

Hi Tory!  I'm PhD Analytical Chemist looking for a new opportunity in the RTP area.  I've been doing much of what you have been discussing on GMA (at least I'm on the right track), but have had no offers.  What are some of the ways to help keep my self-confidence from plummeting??  Also, what are some strategies for getting into a slightly different (lower paying) job?  I've been networking, but it seems that many companies want very specific experience, or don't want to hire someone that is "over-educated" for the position.  Thanks!

Tory,

Several people looking for jobs may be interested in starting their own business or buying a Franchise in their field of choice. Can you offer them the option of becoming a Small Business owners?

Thank you,

H.Malik

Hi Tory,

I'm 26 and a graphic designer. Unfortunately, I was laid off from my job in November - my company got bought out and I was not re-hired by the new company due to location.

I live in NH where there are very few graphic designer jobs. I have found 2 companies that haven't hired anyone yet and are still sifting through resumes. I'm trying to be patient. There are plenty of graphic designers in the area that I am competing with since there are not many choices for us right now. My resume and cover letter are updated - following the guidelines you have given and from PongoResume.com to try to stand out above the rest.

If I do not land a job in the next few months, I will be devastated, as it will seem as though the career I love will be over, and I'm only 26. Any words of advice? I also cannot move closer to the city because my boyfriend and I just bought a brand new townhouse. Good timing, right? :)

Anything you can offer would be of great help!

Thanks,
Kathryn from NH

Hi Tory:

I am looking to work from home and would like to get information on a reliable site that can help me with this.

Hi Tory,

Can you recommend any job recruiters in the Chicago land area?
Trying to transition to IT field from a career in tv post production.
My company went out of business 2 months ago.
Currently unemployed but developing IT skills by pursing a
masters degree in computer information systems. I will complete
program in May.

Thanks,
Frank

Ms. Johnson I would appreciate some info on procedures for navigating for Call Centers in the Boston Area...Where would I began to look for a possible list of such places...Kennette C

Hi Tory, Laurie here with some members of the "It Factor" job club and Joe Flanagan with the ABC affiliate doing a story here...

Question:
One of our members here is an extremely talented graphic designer and he wants to know how he can stand out in this job market? How would he promote his portfolio online?

Dear Tory,

 I have been out of work now for 6 months now, I was in the Travel industry for 20 years...I have been beating myself up trying to get involved with homeless children.

I have not had any luck at all getting any shelters to either answer my resume or even have me work for free ...

I am getting each and every day more saddened by this ...will you be coming to the Detroit area anytime soon?

Any help you can suggest would be very welcomed..

Pamela

 

 

 

Online apps offer more space, but I recommend one page for paper.  Here's why: the recruiter will spend the same amount of time on the resume whether it's one page or two or three.  So keep them focused on the one page.  This isn't supposed to include everything youve ever done. It should be the best of the best - the highlights. Think of a 30 second commercial -- it tells the best of a product, not everything under the sun! Good luck

Hi Tory - I'm making an complete career change, have taken the necessary classes, and am having a resume done..my one question is if an interviewer asks about my liabilities..I was told by my local Work Force here not to tell any liabilities; instead say something like "well, my biggest liability is that I work too hard"..I thought that sounded phony..another said to just be honest but the question is, how honest?

Jackie H

Hi Tory,

I will go ahead and repeat/ augment my question I had asked previously.

What advice can you give professionals on the short end of a multiple downsizing/ job outsourcing situations when discussing these situations on interviews (phone/ in person)? Thank you very much for your time today!

Best regards,

Brad

Hello Tory,

I am a technology project manager with many years of experience in the investment banking/brokerage world.  With the consolidation of many banks and large numbers of laid off technologists in the job market, finding a new role in this industry has become increasingly difficult. 

Any suggestions as to other industries where I could apply my technology management skills?  I have extensive experience working with global development teams and global applications.

Rgds,

bishop.d

Hi Tory,

I have just recently been laid off.  I have over twenty years of banking experience and I live in the Metro Atlanta area.  I see plenty of positions available in banking, I apply on line, e-mail my resume and yet hear nothing.  My resume is current but evidently not good enough to be pulled.  Any suggestions you could give to better my resume would be appreciated.

 

Hi Tory,

   I have not recieved any interviews/responses to my resume. I keep thinking i chose the weronhg major for my degree, or is it something else. I got my BS 2001 in Public Administration/Business administration. I here ppl get jobs with no exp with bus degrees, Eco, Bus Admin, etc. No intterviews since getting my degree. Everyone I ask has different opinion on resume. Any advice?

peter in Queens,NY