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 »

Dear J.T. & Dale: I’ve been applying for jobs recently, and several companies have requested that I send writing samples along with my resume. What are they looking for? Is there a certain format or length that is appropriate? — Anastasia Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: I was assaulted by a former neighbor. As a result, I suffered a stroke and have headaches that lead to seizures. I lost my job after suffering a seizure during a phone call. How do I handle this in an interview? — Cynthia Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: I am starting to write my resume for a job hunt. I’m curious if a small picture of myself would be appropriate. The job is for Web design, and that might give the resume a little more personality. — Phoenix Read the rest of this entry »

J.T.: Time for our annual highlights column, where we pull together the recent advice we believe will be most useful in the new year.

Dale: We hope your personal economy will be up in 2010, and we’ll be here to help. Meanwhile, for immediate advice, you can always go to JTandDale.com or CAREEREALISM.com. Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: I have been unemployed for the past few months and learned that I enjoy being at home. I need to work, but a flexible schedule, working from home, would be perfect. How do I find at-home jobs that aren’t scams? — Annette Read the rest of this entry »