Dear J.T. & Dale: I worked in a business position for 14 years. Since I’d always wanted to work with children, I started substitute teaching. I loved it and was encouraged to return to school to get a master’s degree in teaching. For more than a year I’ve been applying for positions, without much response. I do not know what is wrong. Do you think it is my resume, my lack of teaching experience or the fact I would start at a master’s pay level? — Susan Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: Why do employers ask job applicants for their salary histories? I know the standard answer is to screen out those with unrealistic salary expectations. But I am uncomfortable giving out such personal information to virtual strangers. — Richard Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: Four years into my career, I finally figured out what I want: a career in marketing. What I am now doing is completely different, so do I try to make the transition within my company, or start fresh elsewhere? My boss wants me to take over his position in a few years, which is not what I want. I don’t feel comfortable approaching him about changing careers. So a new company seems like the better option. — Roland Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: I’m now in my 50s and intend to rejoin the work force following the conclusion of my military commitment. Any suggestions for civilianizing a military career in logistics? Thank you from all of us still pursuing excellence in all we do! (That’s Air Force lingo.) — Terry Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: I work as a transcriptionist for a large group of doctors. Three years ago they had us work from home and paid us by how much we typed rather than by the hour. We doubled our production, and they lowered our pay. Then they started sending work overseas and laid off some of us. When they discovered the work was terrible and had to be edited, they called us back. But it’s now to the point where we work very long hours to make little more than we did three years ago. If jobs were a dime a dozen, I’d have left long ago. — Gina Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: There’s been great news a new solar-energy plant is slated to be built in a nearby town. I would like to be part of the history as an employee there. I’m about to finish an MBA, but I already have an MA, and I also have a CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) and can drive big trucks. How can I get an entry-level job with them? — G.K. Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: I worked for a bank in the mortgage department until the real estate market bottomed out and I was laid off. After five months, I took a job for $35K less than I’d been making. I stayed till I was able to find a better-paying job, and worked my way up to $70K, then was laid off last month. Now as soon as a potential employer asks what I was making, they say they are looking to pay $20K less. I try to explain it’s OK, but they believe I’ll only stay until the economy improves. While this may be true, how do I get around it? — Pat Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: I haven’t been able to find a job in any of the areas I’m interested in, so I’m left to apply for jobs I don’t really want. How do I show enthusiasm and get hired for something I don’t want? I feel I’m being deceptive, and see it as having to put on an act. — Connie Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: I just took a new job I truly love. However, I’m finding one drawback — everyone is really into social media. They all have Twitter accounts, and some have their own blogs. I’m more of an outdoorsy person. The problem is it’s all people talk about, so I’m having a hard time connecting on a personal level. I’m worried it will hurt my ability to develop relationships and move up. What should I do? — Chris Read the rest of this entry »

J.T.: We’re always looking for the chance to bring outside experts into our discussions. Today we get to hear from Al O’Connor, who has spent decades in recruiting and outplacement, much of that time coaching job hunters.

Dale: We sought Al’s advice on getting and giving help with job hunting. Read the rest of this entry »