Dear J.T. & Dale: I am now in sales, but I want to be in accounting. I’m in school working toward a B.A. in accounting, but I can’t even find a job as a bookkeeper. It seems that every company wants experience, but how do I get experience? – Jared Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: I recently left a well-paying job after five years with the company. The problem was with the two girls I had to work with. They would feed off each other and make it difficult for me. My supervisor said her hands were tied. I told her if nothing could be done, I would have to look for a position elsewhere. She said, “I hate to see you leave, but I understand and feel free to use my name as a reference.” You can imagine how I felt. Well, I left the company. I do not like the job I took. The man who hired me is always miserable. I was told I need to shrug it off, and if I can’t it would be best to find another job, because this is the way he is and he will never change. What should I say in future interviews as to why I left and why I’m looking? – Evelyn Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: My friend got arrested for DUI. My question to you is, should he tell his boss? His lawyer says not to, as he has only been charged with a DUI, not convicted. However, I am of the feeling that being up-front is the best way to go instead of her finding out from someone else. (He was arrested in a county far from our workplace, so it will not be listed in the local paper.) – Elaine Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: I have a friend who never seems to land a job. Curiously, she takes her husband with her on interviews. Many people besides myself have advised her this could be the problem. She doesn’t think so. She thinks it’s just swell that her husband likes to check out places where she’s applying. (He waits in the lobby.) She said he wants to make sure males in the area know she’s married. I told her this raises red flags, but she doesn’t think so. How about a professional opinion? – Nancy Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: I wrote to you previously seeking advice on a career change. Your reply appeared recently and while I thank you, I’m still not sure how I can make my dream a reality. I have no credentials as far as coaching. In order for me to do as you suggest and start an evening program, would I not need some kind of documentation? – Emmit Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: I work for a health insurance company. My benefits package is nice, my salary is $50,000 and my boss is flexible and understanding. But I have been keeping a secret for three years. I’m miserable. I really want to work in the nonprofit sector. I get more enjoyment from my volunteer activities than I do from my job. Should I get over it and suffer it out for the sake of my family? – Stella Read the rest of this entry »

J.T.: It’s time to report on new career resources. And I’m pleased to have persuaded Dale to talk about a generous offer of his, giving away two versions of a charming and helpful job-search book. Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: What are your thoughts in regard to personality tests in the work environment? Where I work the tests are being used to some degree to determine promotions. We were amazed at what a short and simple test got correct, but at the same time concerned with what statistical testing got wrong. – James Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: You recently talked about employers asking potential employees to state salary requirements before being interviewed. My problem is that my salary requirements might change depending on benefits and schedule. Is it OK to give a range? – Flynn Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: As you can see from my resume, I have a lot of experience. However, I can’t seem to get a call for an interview. I was laid off in February, and I’m still looking for a job. What am I missing? – Misty Read the rest of this entry »