Question: What is the best way to show how experience in one field can translate to success in another; for example, going from teaching to project management? – Joe O., Arlington, VA

Answer: Years of experience in one field don’t have to prevent you from moving into another. Even if you only worked for six months or two years, there are likely transferrable skills you have that can move seamlessly into the next role. Whether this is your spot-on strategy knowhow or your writing wherewithal, identifying your

Question: What is the best way to address gaps in your resume? – Katherine K., Washington, DC

Answer: As is the case with all things regarding resumes and job seeking in general, my first point of advice is to avoid lying about why you have gaps in your work history. Even if it’s just a white lie, the consequences are far greater than a nervous slip of the tongue and should be

Question: How do you go about discussing salary or handling salary negotiations? –Josephina C., Chicago

Answer: In salary negotiations, both the employer and the prospective employee want to reach the same end point: a salary that the two of you are happy with. Of course, it’s never quite that simple to reach this goal, is it? Some tips to find the sweet spot during the course of the conversation: Assess

Question: How effective are non-traditional resumes (e.g. resumes with borders, headings or color)? –Mariyam H., Chicago

Answer: A non-traditional resume (e.g. one utilizing infographics, creative font or even a material different from paper) is certainly an eye-catching trick to pull out of the jobseeker’s hat. There are a few things to consider, as an unconventional resume may not be eye-catching in the ideal way. Think of the Industry before Submitting Typically,

Question: How do you explain that you want to transition from one field to a different one entirely (e.g. from finance to marketing)? –Mariyam H., Chicago

Answer: Making the leap across divisions doesn’t have to be difficult. With some finesse, you’ll find that persuading the hiring manager you’re not only willing but also qualified to move across divisional lines isn’t as challenging as it initially appears. Some things to consider before having the conversation: Make a Pro and Con List Determine

Question: What advice do you have to help your cover letter stand out? –Paige W., Chicago

Answer: With all the articles and guides floating around the internet, it can be difficult to know where to begin when it comes to the cover letter. One thing that’s for certain is to include one when applying to positions. I don’t believe that hiring managers don’t read cover letters—they may skim, sure, but the

Question: Does your age (over 50) become a hindrance in looking for employment? –Denise J., Chicago

Answer: Age only becomes a hindrance if you let it! Older job-seekers bring a wealth of invaluable experience to an organization. Hiring managers realize this and understand that seasoned workers have been in diverse organizations, are flexible with change (contrary to popular belief!) and can see the bigger picture. These are incredible assets that, given

Careers In Nonprofits, Inc. Wins Inavero’s 2015 Best of Staffing Client and Talent Awards

Satisfaction scores more than three times the industry average CHICAGO, IL – February 24, 2015 – Careers In Nonprofits, Inc., a leading employment agency in the nonprofit industry announced today they have won Inavero’s Best of Staffing® Client and Talent Awards for providing superior service to their clients and job seekers. Presented in partnership with

Question: Should I have business cards if I’m entry level and interested in more than one industry?” –Tara R., Chicago

Answer: It certainly doesn’t hurt to get business cards printed, regardless of whether or not you’re entry level or a seasoned veteran. Business cards are a great way to supplement a conversation with a new person and offers a convenient way of passing along your basic information. Even in this digital age, I would argue

Question: Is it acceptable to have a resume that is more than one page? –Breyon B., Chicago

Answer: When jobseeking, the inevitable question springs up: how long does a resume have to be? The time honored standard has been one page on an 8.5in x 11in sheet of paper. Contrary to popular belief, that’s not a hard and fast rule in the job seeking game. Some considerations when embarking on your own

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Author: Nurys Harrigan-Pedersen