Absolute Advantage: Assisting Job Seekers for Three Decades

Why did you choose to start a business in Durham? I'm a home-based business (one of the very first to apply for, and receive, a home occupation permit in 1983 from Planning & Zoning). I've served on P&Z since 1990 [24 years!]). I wanted to provide professional career services while raising three kids.

What do you do? I provide a full range of career-management services, from writing resumes, LinkedIn profiles, cover letter, bios, and thank-you letters/30-60-90 plans to job-search and interview coaching. I work with clients at all levels: C-suite execs to new grads.

What are you most proud of about your business? For 30+ years, I have been privileged to work with clients throughout their careers — and now work with the graduating kids/young adults of many of my original clients. It is extremely rewarding to play a role in career growth/satisfaction at all levels.

What's something people would find surprising about your business or profession? I started my private practice before the Internet and prior to PCs--something that the Small Biz Administration's Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE) couldn't quite grasp... 31 years later, I have thousands of clients nationwide and love my work!

How are you involved in the community? I speak frequently before community organizations and at public schools and libraries throughout Connecticut — teaching many job seekers with valuable job-search, career, and resume advice. It is gratifying to see eyes "light up" as I share strategies.

This article is part of Patch's series highlighting local businesses in our community. Learn more about the series, and if you're a small business, fill out the form to be included, by checking out this link.