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 »

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: I have a co-worker who is always a total sweetheart when other people are present. However, when we are alone, she yells at me and calls me incompetent. I mentioned this to another co-worker, and he told me I was nuts, that everyone loves her. We do the same job, and I’m guessing she is threatened by me. I’m not sure I can hack much more of this evilness. — Francesca 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 »