Dear Dave,
I lost my job a couple of weeks ago, and I’m having a tough time finding part-time work to bridge the gap until another position comes along. I’ve got a masters’ degree, and I’ve been wondering if that’s hurting my chances in the interim. I’m really eager to stay on track paying off my debts. Should I dumb down my résumé?
Jamie
Dear Jamie,
Honestly, if it’s only been a couple of weeks, I think you probably just haven’t found the right thing. There are lots of people out there with big-time résumés who have been forced to go part-time in today’s job market. It’s not unusual right now for UPS or FedEx managers to see people with your level of education wanting to throw boxes. Whether they’re trying to get out of debt or they’re unemployed or underemployed, it’s just part of the economic strain the country’s going through at the moment.
I really like your drive, though, and the fact that you’re actively trying to find a solution to your problem tells me that you’re the kind of person who won’t be denied. Because of this, I think some really good things will begin to happen for you in the coming weeks and months. But let’s not go down the path of omitting things from your résumé. Think about what would happen if your boss discovered you hadn’t truthfully represented yourself and your background? I know if it were me, I’d have to wonder if I could really trust someone who did that.
—Dave
Dave Ramsey is America’s trusted voice on money and business. He’s authored four New York Times best-selling books: Financial Peace, More Than Enough, The Total Money Makeover and EntreLeadership. The Dave Ramsey Show is heard by more than 5 million listeners each week on more than 500 radio stations. Follow Dave on Twitter at @DaveRamsey and on the web atdaveramsey.com.