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: I’ve heard writing a strong, customized cover letter is the key to getting your resume noticed. Having devoted a lot of time to writing letters and gotten no response, I’m starting to wonder: Am I wasting my time? — Thad Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: I’m writing a cover letter for a position that said, “Send resume to Office Manager, P.O. Box…” How should I address the letter? I know you’re not supposed to use “To Whom It May Concern,” but what alternative is there? — Pat Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: I recently heard the average job search is taking eight months. I have enough money saved to cover my expenses for only six months. What can I do to shorten the length of time it takes to find work? — Nathan Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: When submitting a cover letter and resume by e-mail, is it proper to request a “read receipt”? — Tom Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: After a long period of unemployment, I signed up at several employment agencies. I interviewed with them, which went well, so I thought I would hear back. When I didn’t, I called. Only one returned my call. Several months have gone by, and the only thing I have had so far was an e-mail wishing me a happy Mother’s Day. I’m not a mother. What gives? I feel like I have leprosy. — Kirsten Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: What do you think about the concept of unpaid internships? It has always been a pet peeve of mine. It’s a two-sided problem, where as long as students accept unpaid internships, companies can get away with offering them. The way companies get around this being illegal is that they say the compensation is school credit. I say BAH! Am I being unreasonable? — Marissa Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: I’ve had four interviews. I keep getting asked my “greatest strength” and then my “greatest weakness.” As for the latter, I answered truthfully. Once I said “not enough patience,” and once I said “communicating.” Is this wrong? — Ellis 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: Through networking, I contacted former associates who are now at two companies where I’d like to work. Both gave me the name of a hiring manager, as well as names of key decision-makers. My former colleagues also forwarded my resume to the appropriate individuals. However, I haven’t heard anything, and the positions are still on the companies’ Web sites. What would be the next best step? — J.C. Read the rest of this entry »