Dear J.T. and Dale: I have a sticky situation. I recently took a job that required me to relocate several states away. My past executive relocations always have been handled by the companies themselves. This time, I’ve been asked to present receipts for reimbursement. I was told they don’t have a relocation specialist, even though this is an international corporation. The only thing they asked to approve was the actual cost for the packing and moving of my household goods. Meanwhile, I have expenses for travel to the new location and temporary housing, as well as storage costs and a trip back to my old city to finalize the sale of my home. I want to start off on the right foot but I don’t want to feel taken advantage of either. – Jeff Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: I have been a teacher for the past 20 years, and now my wish is for a complete career makeover. I want to become a veterinarian. My plan is to start by working in a vet’s office or pet store. Here is the problem: My advanced degrees are keeping me from finding employment. In fact, I can’t even get interviews. – Sil Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: A good friend of mine at work just got fired for instant-messaging on the job. Isn’t that stupid? I mean, how is that any different from me taking a personal call at work? In fact, I would think IMing is better because it’s free and it takes less time to respond to. – Katie Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: Recently, I took a new job that has ended up not being anything like what was described during the interview process. I have been there only five months, but I really want to leave. I was at my previous job for a little less than three years. I don’t want to look like a job-jumper. –Christine Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: I recently sent out resumes and received three replies, two from human-resources departments and one from a recruiter. When the recruiter called, he demanded to know how much salary I wanted. When I refused to name a number, he ceased all conversation. Both HR departments also wanted me to name my salary before interviewing. Is this a new thing? - Tim Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: Please give me some advice on what to do when a prospective employer calls my former employer and they say, “Not available for rehire.” What do employers think when hearing this? Am I black-listed? – Tara Read the rest of this entry »