Dear J.T. & Dale: I was working in HR before I was displaced due to the economic downturn almost two years ago. I have been doing temporary work or living on unemployment. My situation has become nearly desperate, although during this interim I have gotten out of debt, and my fiancee and I bought a house. Recently, however, my fiancee has become completely frustrated with my lack of direction, and thinks I should go back to school or just take a crappy job simply to be doing something. What can I do to build a network? I’m even willing to do volunteer work. I’m in a horrible rut, and I feel alone. — Chris Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: I am a 47-year-old homemaker and mother. I have begun applying for entry-level positions. I honestly do not have the best work history, having worked as an administrative assistant, a real estate title examiner, court clerk and have sold advertising. What can I do to gain the notice of a potential employer? — Olivia Read the rest of this entry »

J.T.: Occasionally we like to invite experts into the conversation, and this time we have the chance to hear from a corporate turnaround expert, someone who is an authority on saving failing companies. Read the rest of this entry »

Dale: Every month or so, we offer up our suggestions for the best resources for careers or management. Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: What do you advise for someone who doesn’t like working? I’ve never liked any of the jobs I’ve ever had. I have a good history of longevity with jobs, but I’m always unhappy. I’m almost 30, and I still don’t know “what I want to be when I grow up.” — Mary Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: After many years in the corporate world, I decided to go back to school and get an associate’s degree in health-care administration. I’m currently looking for a job in a medical or hospital setting, but it’s very frustrating. Health care is going to be a huge industry, so you’d think they’d be willing to take people who have studied for this field. What’s the deal? — Julie Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: Late last year, my boss, executive director of a large country club, was terminated. I had begun occasionally looking for a job before she left because I was tiring of what I was doing. With her departure, my job search has accelerated. However, my doctor told me I need to have knee replacement surgery, with a recovery time of six to eight weeks. I can get along with my knee as it is; however, it is obvious I have trouble with my leg. Should I stop the job search, fix the knee and then look for a job? — Sandy Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: I am a 56-year-old female surgeon, and I would like to retire from my medical practice in three years. I would like to work for a company whose values are in sync with mine; I would like to work for Whole Foods. How might I make myself a more attractive employee? For example, do you think further training in alternative medicine would be beneficial? — Ann Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: In 2001, I pled guilty to a federal sex offense. I have not held regular employment since. Some potential employers are sympathetic, but none has been willing to offer me a job. I’ve got more than 20 years’ experience in computers, retail and home-rehabbing. — Ed Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: I was in the trucking industry and drove 18-wheelers until last July, when I got fired because of a misunderstanding over company policy. Without going into the issue, I was wrong and the situation warranted termination. Since then, I’ve found it extremely difficult to find another trucking job. No one will take a chance on me. How do I get around this? — Mike Read the rest of this entry »