Centreville, VA 20121: Hi,
I am a stay at home mom with a 4 1-2 year old daughter and a two year old son. I am looking for part time work that I can do on my computer at home. Do you have any suggestions on where to start looking for something like this? I was thinking something along the lines of data entry, but I would not limit myself to just that. If you have any advice I would greatly appreciate it.

Sincerely,
M. Rogers

Steve Stromp: Small businesses typically do not have computer support. Check with the small business office of your chamber of commerce. Also, many small businessmen and women are active in suburban chambers. Check them out as well -- get a membership directory.

Woodbridge, VA: I have recently move to this area and have few personal contacts to use in marketing my skills as a consultant developing training, software documentation, procedure manuals, etc. Any suggestions for where to start?

Steve Stromp: You don't need an established network to get started in a new community. If you're a graduate of a college/university, check the local chapter or local alumni. If you're active in a church, there likely is an affiliate locally as well. Likewise, make one of your initial visits to the chamber of commerce -- they are excellent in helping people develop networks.

Greensboro, NC: What is the best method and frequency one should use in following up on resumes sent and after interviews. I always follow interviews with a letter but after that how aggressive should one be with follow up calls.

Steve Stromp: Immediately after the interview, send a thank you letter. If the selection process is continuing, you may want to do a follow-up letter about a week later than addresses the requirements that were identified in the interview but ones you have yet to match your qualifications.

Silver Spring, MD: I have been a stay-at-home mom for the past four years raising my children. Prior to this, I worked 12 years in a sales position at Xerox. I want to return to the work force in a full time sales position and I'm currently working on my resume. I want to stay in sales but I want to work for a company in either the high tech industry or change to a pharmaceutical-hospital supply industry. What is the best way to handle my four-year sabbatical on my resume?

Steve Stromp: You can elect not to include dates in your resume or annotate the four years spent to attend to family matters. Employers are not overly concerned about these situations. They want your skills and are open-minded.

Washington, DC: Mr. Stromp, I've worked in the independent sector for 8 years in marketing and fundraising, and am gathering information about moving into a position in new media marketing and sales. Do you have any advice about marketing my skills?

Steve Stromp: This is a very sophisticated business. You may need skills in desktop publishing, market research, market planning, etc. In what types of media have you been involved -- print, Internet, AV. Get focused in your resume and identify firms who fit your skill package.

Washington, DC: Mr. Stromp,
I am currently searching for a new job, while remaining at my current full-time job. I have not done this in a long time, and the process can be overwhelming; it seems each step requires a strategy. While I have found helpful resources on the Web, I would appreciate your perspective on a couple of sticking points.

Two questions:
1. Is it advisable to allow potential employers to contact my current employer? So far, I have indicated "no," because I don't want my current employer to know I am searching;

2. When filling out an application, I am asked for my salary history. Should I leave that blank? I feel I can make a lot more money than I am now, and I fear that by explicitly stating figures, I am "lowballing" my potential salary offer.

I hope you can help. Thank you!

Steve Stromp: Employers will respect your situation and usually ask permission before they contact your company. If you bent on leaving, I suggest you condition any "yes" that it be coordinated with you beforehand. As for salary, avoid it. It's a screening question that could either eliminate you from consideration or influence the offer.

Rockville, MD: Hi, everyone. I would like to know what are the criteria for recruiters using resume scanners. The reason is that I had been submitting resumes in ASCII and WordPerfect format but I got a couple of responses from 300 resumes submitted via e-mail.

Anticipating your help
Thank you very much

Steve Stromp: Odds of getting a position off the Internet remain low but improving by the day. There are several techniques you can use to get better results. Employers search resumes using keyword. Make sure you resume contains keywords for your field e.g. ISO9000 for quality positions. I would avoid word since some employer operating systems can read it. Do everything in ASCII -- 60 characters wide.

Fairfield, CA: I have received a good job offer from a company in another city. However, I would like to make them a counter offer for a higher base salary, more vacation time, and more money for tuition reimbursement. What's the best way to go about this without alienating the company? I don't want to seem ungrateful since will be my first management position.

Steve Stromp: It's a delicate process. IF possible, I would meet in person. If not, then by phone. Emphasize how excited you are about the position/company and the perfect fit. Give the employer the comfort that you've already decided to take the position tentatively, but have a couple of minor items to resolve. Explain the financial differences between your current situation and the new one and the importance of professional development to you and the firm. Don't ask for money -- propose situations and ask questions. Rehearse your presentation before you do it. This is a calculated process.

St. Louis, MO: Dear Mr. Stromp:

I am a recent graduate of the Univ. of MO-St. Louis with a bachelor's in English and Political Science, and I am having difficulty finding work in my "field". I am willing to relocate and plan on going to law school on the East Coast in 2001 -- what would you suggest for a person in my shoes?

Steve Stromp: Not many companies employ people with English and political science backgrounds. I'd suggest you look at nonprofit agency (community/urban development, human services) and explore opportunities for grant writer or proposal manager. In this right setting, they can be great jobs!

Woodbridge, VA: How do you avoid salary disclosure when the criteria for a job states: send resume, cover letter and salary history. Then also notes, incomplete applications will not be considered?

Steve Stromp: Either avoid the question entirely or insert a statement to the effect that because of your current compensation package, it would be best to discuss compensation in the interview. Note I said "discuss" not "reveal."

arlington VA: Steve,
Thanks in advance for your advice.
I'm almost five years out of school -with a very liberal BA-, have had a variety of interesting jobs-yet none enough, or with enough growth opportunity, to want to stay for more than a year and a half. Unfortunately I am finding myself in the "administrative rut," and I feel it is mainly because I haven't gone back to school to get some kind of Masters. Yet honestly I have no desire to return to school. Recently however, I have realized that my true interests lie in a couple of field that I have absolutely NO background in - the internet and marketing - seemingly unrelated, I know. Yet I'm getting discouraged since I feel as though to get my foot in the door in these kinds of jobs, I need to go back and get some kind of "techie" degree. Any thoughts on how I should progress without going back and getting a degree in Info. Systems, and/or Business?
Thanks.

Steve Stromp: If you're a liberal arts person, nonprofit and community agencies are your best shot. However, let's face the facts. You're young and have a long career ahead of you. You need to embrace technology; otherwise you will experience problems. Every job today is computer-oriented. I counsel business people in their 50s who never thought it important to learn a little technology. They had difficult times finding employment.

washington, D.C.: Is this a good idea to quite a new job if you do not think that there is any growth within the company for you?

Steve Stromp: Why? The company's situation could change next week, your boss could leave, etc. Explore needs within the company that you might be able to fulfill and market yourself in that direction while you look outside.

Jobs: We are now halfway through our live discussion with our special guest, Steve Stromp.

San Bernardino, CA: Does a person need to re-write a resume for each job?

Steve Stromp: No -- if the resume is properly developed. It is in special situations advisable to refine the objective or qualifications to show a strong fit. I sense you are not focused in your career direction and pretty much write the resume to whatever you encounter. Is that correct?

Washington, DC: I'm interested in Employee Assistance and in the process of obtaining an MSW. How can I market myself to the corporate community with a social work degree. By the way, I do feel an MSW is the best degree for someone who wants to become a therapist.

Steve Stromp: Target EAP firms and large corporations who have EAP staff on site. Network with some of the professional groups in social work and employee assistance. I would also advise you to research the career field and the industry before you start your marketing. Make sure it's what you want.

Washington, DC: Mr. Stromp,
As I look for a new job, I am asked for references. I have been at my current job for over 5 years, and they do not know I am searching, so I guess I cannot use them as references. I don't think that anyone at my former company who could evaluate my performance is still there. So where else can I look to provide references? Thank you.

Steve Stromp: I'd suggest job-hunters have five references -- three professional and two personal -- and select three from the group when asked. Co-workers, clergy, medical professionals are often used. If your boss at the previous company held you in high favor, why not ask him/her or someone in supervision/management there? Also, if you're a member of a professional association, ask some of your colleagues.

Falls Church, VA: Hello ...

I am a young, 50 year old woman, a writer in the advertising-marketing field who also has quite a bit of executive-level experience. Is a baby-boomer a huge negative for employers?? Aren't most companies looking for very young people who they can pay less?

Thanks,

Steve Stromp: I was a marketing communications manager in my mid-50s when I made my recent career change. Yes, companies want younger folks, but I never allowed age to be a deterrent. If you believe you're too old for the advertising-marketing game, you'll convey that impression. Employers want skills - up-to-date skills. Use some of your marketing/advertising skills and package yourself around your strengths -- not what you feel is a liability. You can do it!

Washington, DC: Dear Mr. Stromp,

I graduated in 1996 with a degree in psychology and am now interested in international education. The only problem is that this field is very specific. Do you have any advise for people like me who have a specific interest, but don't know how to "break into" the field?

I would greatly appreciate any advice you can offer.

Steve Stromp: A bachelor's degree might be inadequate. If you have done graduate-level work, you are more competitive. Network with professionals in the field and ask them about the skills international firms need, who are some of the more prospective in the industry. You eventually will begin to focus on specific organizations and positions.

arlington,VA: Should a resume have a professional objective, summary or neither?

Steve Stromp: Most professional and middle manager job seekers are best served with an objective. Senior executive should use a professional summary since they have a fit in several positions at various levels. I'd say 90% of the resumes I see contain objectives.

Germantown, MD: About four months ago, I took a job working as a government contractor doing mainframe application maintenance work. Unfortunately, things are not working out, as the position is not at all what I had in mind. How should I approach my manager, to give her a "head-up", that I'm am not happy with my job situation, without coming across as threatening -i.e. "if things don't change, I will leave"-?
Thanks.

Steve Stromp: Schedule a meeting. Discuss what you envisioned as your contribution to the project and your expectations in terms of growth, compensation. Is there an option to redesign the job so it satisfies you? If so, explore that alternative. You need to decide whether this job is salvageable. If not, search elsewhere.

Front Royal, VA: I have 25 years of graphic design experience. Currently I am teaching myself HTML and would like to take my career in the direction of Web Development. I am attending job fairs in the area. Do you have advice for doing the dance.

Steve Stromp: Many graphic designers were screened out of the market several years ago because they did not have desktop experience. Presumably, your skills are current in this area. Rather than teach yourself, invest in training and look to do volunteer projects for community/nonprofit groups. Employers are fickle -- they want people who've danced not just taken dancing lessons. Get the point!

Lorton, VA: I have been in numerous jobs within the military. Many of which could be considered "careers" in their own right. How do I express in a resume that I have not only been a jack of all trades, but have also mastered them as reflected in numerous civilian and military awards and recognition.

Steve Stromp: Your military experience is valuable, but drop the culture. I'm very familiar with the military-civilian transition process. Don't build your resume from performance evaluations and don't showcase awards and other recognition. The honors are not of interest to employers. They want to know the reasons you were recognized. From the many skill areas, focus on the ones you do best and which relate in some form to positions in the private sector. A unit commander, for instance, could do well as an Operations Manager. Consult with your military transition office.

Bethesda, MD: Hi! I'm trying to get a job as a journalist with a major newspaper. I have a year's experience working as a reporter for a small daily paper. I also have three years of experience as a writer and editor for a newsletter company with a large circulation. -Essentially, I do all of the things that any journalist does.- I've been told by the HR department at the major paper that I simply don't have enough experience working on a daily in a major market. My question is how I get them to see that the work I am doing now is every bit as rigorous and deadline sensitive as the job I would do for them. In a case like this, do you just keep trying to sell the quality of your writing? Is the fact that my current publication is part of the trade press working against me?

Steve Stromp: The scenario is the same system as professional sports -- you need to work your way through the system. Frankly, trade press work is pretty decent -- I've had some association with it in the past. Keep in mind that although you feel the skills and experiences are similar, there is a different between metro, suburban, trade press.

DC: I realize you are up against time so I will make it short.

Best way to go about a relocation?
Employment agency, mass letters?

Thanks!

Steve Stromp: Develop a relocation plan. Research the location and begin long-distance networking initially by phone. Plan to spend 2-3 weeks in the area exploring the market. Don't apply for newspaper ads using your current address. Find a family/friend in the locale and use their address/phone number. Otherwise employers will screen you out.

Arlington,VA: Mr. Stromp, Good Day! I really do hope to get a response from you, please.
I said goodbye to my advertising career - as an Art Director-illustrator- five years ago when I left for Europe. Came back in '97 and started a painting career only to realize that it wasn't really for me. I miss my old job and would like to re-enter the Ad Agency world. I was an award-winning designer. My husband thinks I'm over the hill. I'm forty-four.
How can I effectively market myself. I'm willing to start from the bottom again. Many thanks. Laura

Steve Stromp: Presumably, your skills are still current. Network with professional groups and seek out agency art directors or people in a position to hire you. In some markets, this industry is up and down. Hopefully where you're looking, it's expanding.

McLean, VA: What is the proper etiquette for submitting a resume and cover letter my E-mail? Should the resume be included in the E-mail if no preference is specified? Or is an attached Word document okay? What about the cover letter or E-mail message--should it be the same format as a standard cover letter or more informal since it is E-mail?

Steve Stromp: Do not attach resumes. Many employers refrain from opening these for fear of a virus. Insert the information into your e-mail message. If you know a hiring manager will read it, retain the Word format. If you feel it will be scanned or input electronically, use ASCII format -- 60 characters wide.

Boston, MA: I will be relocating the DC area this spring and want to start looking for a job now. How do I avoid being screened out because I'm not a local applicant? I'm moving because I'm getting married this summer - should I mention that in the cover letter to demonstrate my commitment to relocating? Or will that count against me because they'll be worried about me taking time off around the wedding?

Steve Stromp: Check my earlier comment on localizing your resume address/telephone. You can also arrange a local PO box and have mail forwarded to you and subscribe to a local number -- but you must pay long distance charges.

Philadelphia, PA: I am a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania with a degree in Political Science and International Relations and I had an excellent academic record. I have looked for employment in the Washington area in several different fields -non-profit, law firms, and defense contractors- and have had no success. What advice do you have?

Steve Stromp: Target companies which do export/import business. You usually can get a list from the chamber of commerce of local trade office.

Arlington, VA : How do you really know what's the interviewer
is thinking of you?
What kind of questions should one ask before leaving the interview?

Steve Stromp: Don't ask about salary, etc. Save that when they make the offer. Ask how they see you fitting into the position, what is a typical day on the job. If you've researched the employer -- AND YOU SHOULD -- you shouldn't have problems with interview questions. The type of questions you ask can enhance your prospects.

Great Falls, VA: After several years of productive and profitable self-employment, I have re-located to the DC area and want to enter the corporate environment. What can I do with my resume to compete with people who show experience with major companies?

Steve Stromp: The first question the employer will ask is why do you want to leave what you're doing and work for them. Also, they'll ask what assurance will they have that you'll stay. In answer to your question, you have been connected with specific functions (perhaps manufacturing) and industries. Those are your marketable strengths. Build your resume around this. Be caution that you are too strong with your information and scare potential employers away because they're afraid they can't afford you.

Rockville, MD: Mr. Stromp:

I am 50 years old and have recently obtained the Microsoft MCSE certification. This is a career change for me from working with humanitarian aid organizations overseas.
I seem to be having difficulties getting in with an organization where I could use my certification. "Not enough experience". Since I'm pretty new to this field, I've used the Internet to look for positions. Any advice on changing my success?

Steve Stromp: For your background, the Internet is a decent source. You need to directly approach prospective companies. If you can identify email addresses for hiring manager, contact them directly via Internet. Some IT people have had great success maneuvering this way. Best of luck.

Arlington, VA: I'm 38 years old and have worked as an engineer for the government for the past 16 years. I receive a respectable salary -GS-14-, but believe my skills may be worth much more in the private sector, especially with today's shortage of technology professionals. I plan to "test the waters" within the next couple of months to determine my worth. How would you recommend that I accomplish this? I'm willing to leave government service for the right job.

Steve Stromp: My experience with government engineers is they lack design experience -- contractors often do this. I've worked with a number of government engineers and discovered industry is not as enamored by their experience. At GS-14 pay, you would have to move into a relatively high position. I'd suggest you look at manufacturing and could find a fit with a small to medium firm as a manager.

Wayland, Ma: What is the best method for finding the right recruiter for you? I am overwhelmed by the numbers of them. Should you use several?

Steve Stromp: Recruiters specialize in functions and industries. Identify the ones in your field. Consult Recruiters On Line at www/ipa.com.

Rockville, MD: For the past ten years I have been working as an account executive for a small unit of a large publishing company. I would now like to work in either the telecommunications or Internet industry. The only responses that I get to my resume are for positions at a lower level than the one I currently have. Am I doing something wrong?

Steve Stromp: Do you have IT background. You are probably excellent in relational marketing, but need technical expertise to understand and help solve customer problems.

Andrews AFB, MD: I am switching careers and currently enrolled in a training program to break into the IT field. How do I compose my resume given that I don't have any experience to note about the field I'm trying to get into other than the training certificates I have on programming and web design? Would appreciate your expert advice. Thank you.

Steve Stromp: Since you don't have IT experience, do you have experience in application fields -- financial systems, inventory, ERP?
Let that drive your resume.

Arlington, VA: Do you find that for those that have jobs, a better approach is a more passive, just sending things off as they come up, or a more active approach, such as taking leave and making departure plans? I find the more desperate I am to leave, the less it helps in the sense that I feel worse and it doesn't help locate opportunities any faster. Thanks.

Steve Stromp: You get what you invest. This is not easy work that you normally can do casually. If employed, plan to spend 20 hours in your search. If unemployed, 40. Yes, work schedules are a problem, but if you're dissatisfied, you can budget the time. Practice discipline.

Alexandria Virginia : I currently work in law enforcement as a communications trainer, training new employees on computer equipment ,etc. However, I like training, and would like to transfer my training skills to something other than law enforcement. How do I market myself so that I can at least be granted an interview in the training field ?

Steve Stromp: There are investigative consultants that might have an interest. What subjects have you instructed? I'd suggest network with the International Society of Training and Development whose members are training specialists.

Burke, VA: Do job titles effect resume selection? I have a VP position in a very small startup. Does having this title on my resume pass me over when applying for a director level position in a larger company?

Steve Stromp: It could. I have to see the situation to advise you better. You can oversell and undersell yourself. Best to position yourself slightly on the lower side.

Graduate School, California: I am in the middle of a one-year Master's program in International Comparative Education. I am considering moving back to Washington and have started targeting non-profits that meet my research interests. I'd like to get my name out by emailing key people in these organizations--any tips for that first -cold- introductory email, how to find the right people to email, and how to nurture them until I'm ready for the actual job search?

Steve Stromp: There are directories and online databases that will help you. Don't expect to find in one location. I've found that doing subject searches in newspapers, periodicals, etc., and identify sources.

Bethesda, MD: A friend of mine recently started a new job. She only found out after starting, and declining an offer from another company, that she would be working the 11 PM to 7 AM shift, and that 40 hours of overtime are required per month. Does she have any sort of recourse? (i.e. would it be out of line to try and get out of this position, and into the one she originally declined?) Thanks

Steve Stromp: This is an ethical question. Apparently, she took the job without knowing the requirements. Was she misinformed? That might a case for renegotiating the deal. If the other position is still open to her, she could use it as leverage. Should she leave company A for company B? That's a personal decision only she can make.

Jobs: Unfortunately that is all the time we have for today.

We hope you come back and join us every Monday at 11 a.m., when we feature live discussions about careers with special guest experts.

Next Monday we have Caryl Rae Krannich, author of "101 Secrets of Highly Effective Speakers." See you then!

Oh, and before you go, check out Jobs, the online career site on the Washingtonpost.com network.

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