Randy writes:
I have several questions about my current job search:
- Due to my age, I am only going back 15 years on my resume — some say 10 — but should I leave all those jobs completely or just list them without dates?
- Currently I list months/years on my jobs, which is fine overall except for my previous job, where I worked approx 8 months because I was terminated for not bringing in enough business. During interviews I’m not sure to to address any questions about the short stint.
- I left off my age on my education.
- I keep revising my resume and need a compelling cover letter. Do you think it is worth the investment to have them professionally written? Some services charge up to $300-700, and I can’t make that investment right now.
The Career Doctor responds:
- List the jobs in a section called Previous Professional Experience without dates.
- Yes, you may need to explain the short job stint. It’s best to say something generic like you didn’t fit into the company culture.
- Good. Age should never be listed on a resume.
- I absolutely, 100 percent endorse the use of a professional resume writer. Yes, it’s not cheap — but you are talking about your next job, your future. You can’t afford NOT to make this investment.
