Dear J.T. & Dale: I want to get in on jobs before they’re posted for everyone to see. However, most jobs I’m looking for are secret until they are advertised. How can I track down hiring managers and get them to notice me so that the very next instant the job becomes available, they’ll think of me? — Kim Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: Is there such a thing as internships for adults? — J.K. Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: A contract house recently contacted me regarding a job opportunity, having found my resume on the Internet. They sent me for an interview, which went great, and the interviewer told me I would be contacted within three days by the contract house. Five days later I called the contract house and was told the interviewer was not responding to them. I have since called back repeatedly. (They did say on one call that I was one of three finalists.) Finally, I tried to contact the interviewer myself. She told me to go through the contract house and not call her directly. Is this how business is done? — Fergie Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: I have struggled for years to get a mainstream job, finally taking one where I work from 3 p.m. to midnight. I hate the job, but love the hours. Now I want to look for a job that will better suit my cultural studies degree but that has nighttime hours. Am I looking for a needle in a haystack? — Andy Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: I will be completely honest about myself and my situation. First off, I’m what doctors call obese (flabby is more appropriate, but I am working on getting unflabby). Next, I have numerous medical conditions that allow me to walk short distances, but a wheelchair is often necessary. Then there is the fact that I have not worked as a paid person in my field (accounting/financial services), ever. I have eight years of volunteer work and internships. And, last but not least, I am fast approaching 50. How can a person like me find a career? — Cynthia Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: My friend lost his job and can’t find another. Ten years ago, while he was on disability for a back injury, he did a plumbing job for a neighbor. His ex-wife turned him in. Therefore, he has a felony on his record. Is this why he isn’t getting hired? — Georgia Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: I’m not comfortable giving my Social Security number when filling out an application for a job. Is it really necessary? — Rick Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: My job forbids current and former employees from being references — it only permits HR to verify dates of employment. If I get laid off, I will have only family and friends to use as references. I had two previous jobs, but both companies went out of business ages ago, and the people I use as references have died. Will employers be understanding? — Eric Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: My daughter graduated from college last year and, due to the economy, has found it difficult to find a job. On top of this, her credit has gone down the tubes. She’s had numerous interviews, but so far, nothing. Is her credit affecting her ability to get hired? Can employers do credit checks without permission? — Margie Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: I received my bachelor’s degree in accounting last summer. However, because of medical issues, I have not started working. I have not bounced back physically, and therefore, I need part-time work. I would like to be upfront with employers, especially because my frequent doctor’s appointments require flexibility, but I also worry about scaring off employers. When should I bring it up? — Elisabeth Read the rest of this entry »