Applying for positions for which you're not 100% qualified

I see jobs where I have some of the qualifications they’re seeking, but not all of them.  Should I still apply or am I wasting my time?

How soon to send an interview follow-up message

I have an upcoming interview and I’m wondering how soon after the interview I should write my follow-up thank you email?  I’m leaning toward sending it the same day, but does that make me seem too eager?

Last Minute Interview Tips

I have a job interview coming up.  I’ve read all the handouts on your website, I’ve practiced questions with my roommate, and I’ve researched the company.  And I have a professional business suit.  Any other last minute tips?

When should Spring graduates start applying for jobs?

Is it too early to start looking for a full-time job now if I graduate in May?  I’d really like to get started!

One or two page resume?

Is it really important that I keep my resume to one page?  I've got about 10 extra lines I just can't squeeze onto one page.

How quickly to apply for a job that contains an application deadline

Please solve a disagreement I’m having with my roommate about job application deadlines.  I say when there’s a deadline in the ad you can take your time applying for the job because they’ll review all the applications on the deadline date.  She says I should submit my application way before the deadline.  Who’s right?

Follow-Up After an Unsuccessful Interview

I’m bummed.  I was a finalist for a position I really wanted but didn’t get the offer. Is there anything I can do now because I really want to work for this company

Uncomfortable networking with family friends

I know I should be networking with everybody possible, but I feel uncomfortable contacting family friends.  I feel like I’m imposing on them.  And it makes it look like I can’t get a job on my own.

Why Write Cover Letters if Some Recruiters Don't Read Them?

Recently I heard a recruiter say she never reads cover letters, just resumes.  So now I’m wondering if I should even bother writing cover letters at all.  They're very time consuming.

Providing Writing Samples During Job Interviews

You explain about writing samples in a 2009 post, but I just found out that I will be asked to provide a writing sample during an upcoming interview.  How do I prepare for that?

The Value of a Summer Job vs. an Internship

I’ve lined up this really great summer job, but it’s not an internship.  I’m concerned that it will look bad if I don’t have an internship on my resume.

Social & Professional Networking for Helping Professionals

I keep hearing about the importance of a Linkedin profile for professional networking, but because I’m seeking a job in the social service profession, I’m a little uncomfortable posting a photo or almost any identifying information online.  What do you think?

Padding a Resume with Group Memberships

A friend recommended I join a lot of student groups because it’ll look good on my resume.  What do you think?

What's a 1099 Position?

I’m interested in a job, but is says “This is a 1099 position; no benefits.”  Is this a scam?

Revealing to Recruiters Where Else You're Interviewing

What do I say if an interviewer asks me where else I’ve applied or interviewed? Do I have to tell them?

I Have a Linkedin Profile. What Now?

I keep hearing that I should have a Linkedin profile. So I created one and nothing much is happening. Now what?

Contacting Second Level Connections on Linkedin

I’ve found a few Second Level Connections on Linkedin that I’d like to contact. Is there any way to contact them?

Providing More Than What's Requested in a Job Application

I always hear that you want to make yourself stand out, so I’m thinking I should do more than what’s required in a job application. Like if they ask for three references, maybe I should give them five. Or if they want two writing samples, I’ll provide four. What do you think?

Introducing Yourself to a Recruiter

This may seem like a stupid question, but how do I introduce myself to a recruiter who already knows my name?

"Dropping Names" in Cover Letters

My dad’s friend works at a company I’d really like to work for, and his friend recommended I apply for a job within the company. Is it appropriate to “drop his name” in the cover letter?

How many jobs should be listed on a resume?

I’m a senior and I've had a lot part-time jobs while attending college. During the school year and summers. But I’m afraid that listing too many jobs on my resume makes me look unreliable or disloyal to previous employers.

"Not So Great" Internship at a Good Organization

What do you think of my getting a “not so great” internship at a good company? I figure it’s a good way to get my foot in the door.

Do Job Hunters Need Their Own Website?

I’ll be job searching soon and someone suggested I create a website. What do you think?

When to Apply for Jobs if Graduating in May

I just saw a posting for my dream job, but they want someone to start immediately, and I won’t graduate until May. Should I apply?

Posting Defunct Organizations on Your Resume

I’ve worked for two companies that are now out of business. I’m afraid if I include them on my resume, I won’t be able to provide references because I have no idea how to find my former bosses. Help!

Giving Gifts Following an Interview

Q: Is it ever appropriate to include a small token of your appreciation in a post-interview thank-you note? Maybe a Starbucks or Amazon gift card? Or how about something I’ve created, like a handmade gift (I create jewelry as a hobby).