Advancement and transfers

Q: Is advancement on the job or moving to another department based on several years of working for the same company or earning a college degree — bachelor’s or higher — with certification?

A: Depending on the company, it could be either. Larger companies value degrees for some promotions, but Arkansas companies are primarily small to mid-sized companies. Both criteria are important, but either can produce advancement.

Q: What is the appropriate format for e-mailing a resume along with a letter of job interest?

A: Attaching your resume and query letter as either a Word document or a PDF file allows a the recipient to print your resume separately from the e-mail and pass it along to prospective employers more easily.

Q: I have excellent work history, references and skills, but am finding it difficult to find a job. I suspect it is because of my age — 56. Do you have any suggestions?

A: Companies target candidates with previous experience in a similar industry and updated computer skills. Make sure your resume highlights these areas. No personal information should ever appear on your resume.

Q: Is it OK to discuss personal goals and long-term plans with a prospective employer during a job interview and after being hired?

A: Yes, as long as those goals and plans relate to your employment with the company.

Q: When asked “Why did you leave your last job?” is it OK to say I would like a job that requires more person-to-person contact than I had at my old job?

A: Yes. Most people prefer interaction to solitude. You can also ask for more responsibility and explain that you want more of a challenge. Be prepared to give reasons for any previous job changes.